Europe has some of the most remarkable landmarks in the world. Many of the famous tourist hotspots in the region were constructed centuries ago, and some are still used to this day. Here are 10 landmarks in Europe which you must visit at least once in your lifetime:
10. Charles Bridge
Charles Bridge is a historical bridge that is located in Prague, Czech Republic. The name was chosen because the bridge was constructed under the auspices of King Charles IV. Czech legend has it that the king lay down the first stone of the bridge. Construction of the bridge started in 1357, and it was completed in the early 1400s. That makes it the oldest bridge in Prague. Along the bridge, there are many statues of saints, all of which were put up between 1683 and 1928.
9. Sagrada Familia
Valery Egorov / Shutterstock.com
The request for construction of the Sagrada Familia was initially submitted in 1885, but authorities did not respond to it until 137 years later. Parts of the cathedral had been constructed without the permits. Antonio Gaudi, the architect behind the project, died before he could complete the cathedral. Now, other architects are working on the project, and they estimate that it will be finished by 2026. Even as an incomplete cathedral, it was recognised by the pope as a basilica in 2010.
8. Big Ben
Big Ben is also referred to as the Great Bell, and it is located at the northern end of the Palace of Westminister, London. It is famous for its large size and its accuracy. The four clock faces of the Big Ben are usually illuminated at night, and that creates a spectacular scene. A special light above the clocks is also turned on when parliament is in session. It is interesting to note that the clock has hardly ever stopped since its construction. Even in the Second World War when the Commons chamber was destroyed by a bomb, the clock still continued to strike the hours.
7. Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate was constructed between 1788 and 1791 in Germany. It was meant to be a key entry point to the city of Berlin, but by the 20th century, it came to symbolise the division between East and West Germany. Ironically, after the Cold War, it was recognised as a symbol of peace and unity in Europe. It is currently one of the best-known landmarks in Germany. Around a million people flock to the gate on New Year’s eve for its famous party.
6. Church of Our Saviour on Blood
Located in Saint Petersburg, this five-domed dazzler is the most elaborate church in existence. The name of the church is a reference to the assassination attempt of Tsar Alexander II in 1881, which happened in the building. The design of the church was so complicated that it took 24 years to complete construction. The building was neglected for most of the Soviet era, and it was only until the 1970s that restoration began. It is now one of the main sights in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
5. Acropolis
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel that contains the remains of buildings that have historical and architectural significance. One of the most famous of these buildings is the Parthenon. Many of the buildings in The Acropolis were damaged in 1687 when gun powder in the Parthenon was hit by a cannonball. Still, it is currently the most complete and most striking representation of ancient Greek architecture.
4. St. Peter’s Basilica
St. Peters Basilica is one of the most important churches in the world. The pope usually uses it as his main church. According to Expedia reviews you should visit the basilica at night as it is usually illuminated to create a spectacular scene. Besides the amazing architecture of the building, the church is famous for being the final resting place of St. Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples. Many popes have also been buried at the church.
3. The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the most remarkable architectural landmarks from Medieval Europe. The tower is part of the structures that make up the cathedral complex in Pisa. Construction of the tower started in 1173, and it took 200 years to complete. The tower is slightly curved in an effort to stop it from leaning further. Cement grouting has also been injected to the foundation of the tower to stabilise it.
2. The Colosseum
The Colosseum is a large stone amphitheatre that was constructed in Rome before the first century AD. Although the structure has been damaged by earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters, it creates a powerful impression of its original form. For the best experience at the Colosseum, you should join a guided tour. Your guide will be able to reveal crucial facts on the amphitheatre.
1. Eiffel Tower
Climbing the Eiffel Tower is one of the biggest thrills in Europe. Millions of people visit the tower every year, and although it is always crowded, it is still worth visiting. At the top of the tower, you will get one of the most spectacular views of Paris. For the best tour, you should book your tickets online. If you show up without a pre-booked ticket, you are likely to spend hours in the entry line.
