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There are many captivating and alluring buildings all over the world. However, there are many buildings that stand apart from the rest and it is these buildings that stay in people’s memories forever. Here is a list of 10 most iconic buildings in the world.

1. THE GIZA PYRAMIDS
This is perhaps one of the oldest building in the world that has captivated the imagination of people for centuries. The way the pyramids have been built to form tombs for 3 pharaohs from the 3rd and 4th Dynasties is truly amazing, considering that no modern construction equipment or tools were available when they were built. The oldest pyramid in the group was constructed between 2551 and 2531 BC. Go below for more:

2. THE COLOSSEUM
This Roman amphitheater was constructed between 70 and 72 AD and was capable of 50,000 spectators, who came to watch mostly gladiator games. The amphitheater was also used for executions, mock battles and other public events. Emperor Vespasian was responsible for the magnificent Colosseum.

3. BIG BEN
The iconic clock tower in London was constructed in 1858 and is 316 feet in height. The tower has a bell and clocks, with each clock being 23 square feet. It is still not known, after whom this tower has been named. Many believe it is named after Sir Benjamin Hall, who was responsible for overseeing the installation of the 7.5-foot bell in the tower.

4. EIFFEL TOWER
This beautiful structure was constructed between 1887 and 1889 to function as an entrance for the Exposition Universelle, which was held to mark 100 years of the French Revolution. Initially, the tower was supposed to stay for 20 years, but realizing its value as a communication tower, it was not dismantled.

5. TAJ MAHAL
This symbol of love is a mausoleum. The construction began in 1632 and ended in 1648. The mausoleum was ordered by Emperor Shahjahan after his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal died in 1631. Twenty thousand workers and craftsmen worked to complete this beautiful marble tomb.

6. EMPIRE STATE BUILDING
Once upon a time, it was the tallest building in the world, the construction started in 1930 and took just 410 days to finish. Today, it is a part of New York’s skyline and one cannot think of the city without the Empire State Building.

7. SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
Right at Sydney Harbor is the beautiful and iconic Sydney Opera House. The construction of the Opera House started in 1955 after a design competition was held in 1955. The winning architect was Jorn Utzon from Denmark.

8. THE BURJ AL ARAB
Shaped like a sail, this luxury hotel is built on a manmade island in Dubai. The building was designed by Tom Wright and today, it is world’s second largest hotel. The hotel is renowned for its luxurious suites, restaurants and a 590-foot tall atrium.

9. THE LOUVRE
This museum was built in the 12th century, but was converted into a royal residence by the 14th century. However, Louis XV changed it back to a museum for house royal collection in 1750. It was turned into a public museum after the French Revolution.

10. HAGIA SOPHIA
The museum in Istanbul started out as a church, which was built by Emperor Constantine in 360. The church was located over a pagan temple. It was then converted into a mosque and finally a museum. The original Hagia Sophia was destroyed in a fire in 532 and the structure that we see today was constructed between 532 and 537 and is a fabulous example of Byzantine architecture.

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