The 21st century is seeing the modernization of the world’s architecture, particularly with new renovations of older structures. While contemporary design is certainly pleasing to the eye, it cannot compete with the timeless elegance of the world’s historic buildings.
The Caribbean for Less Than You Think
Up to 65% off + a resort credit + a free night at select Sandals resorts. 8 islands. 17 resorts. All-inclusive everything. See the deals →
No matter where you go, dazzling and astonishing architectural works are waiting to take you back in time. Whether you are an aficionado or just someone who appreciates the craftsmanship involved, here are 11 absolute must-see destinations around the world.
Istanbul, Turkey
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
With its unique and diverse cultural heritage, Turkey merges two continents, Europe and Asia, and offers you the best of both worlds with its impressive and eclectic architectural heritage.
Its Byzantine legends, such as Hagia Sophia, and Ottoman icon Blue Mosque, give her a fabulous architectural collection of unique styles, so as you walk along her vivid streets, contemporary skyscrapers and beautiful public buildings, you will appreciate the contrast of the old and the new.
Rome, Italy
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Another architectural feast for the eyes is the Italian capital, Rome. Here, in the world’s best artistic and architectural heritage, the Romans, innovators par excellence, will transport you back in time with their ingenious use of structures and materials.
Photos can never compare to the breathtaking experience of visiting the Colosseum, the massive and monumental Pantheon, the Baroque masterpiece of St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Neoclassical Trevi Foundation.
Florence, Italy
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Fascinating buildings from history can be found throughout Florence, Italy. These are some of the many buildings from the Renaissance, like the Florence Cathedral, with its perfectly proportioned dome. As you walk over the cobblestone streets of Florence, you will see other historical styles of architecture, like the Gothic style of the Palazzo Vecchio, Baroque style of the Palazzo Pitti, and many more.
Cairo, Egypt
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Cairo, Egypt’s most populous city, offers a combination of contemporary buildings from today and heritage buildings from the past. The most famous and oldest are the great Pyramids of Giza that showcase the engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians and their ability to build something so grand.
Most of Cairo’s Islamic architecture consists of beautiful domes, patterns, and tall minarets. These can be seen throughout all of Cairo’s many enchanting mosques. To modernize the city, many tall buildings have been constructed to cover the skyline and provide contemporary architectural designs.
Cambodia
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Due to its fascinating history, Cambodia’s architecture is very impressive. The Angkor Wat temple built in the twelfth century is a great example Angkor Wat of Khmer architecture. It has received recognition for its tall towers and sculpted designs that are breathtaking. Because of this, it has become a symbol of pride for the country and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Besides Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s architectural styles fuse traditional Khmer with contemporary design as the country attempts to find a harmony between the past and the present.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Photo credit: DepositPhotos.
The cityscape of New Orleans is very distinct compared to other cities in the United States. With influences from France, Spain, Creole and American designs, it features magnificent balconies in the French Quarter and Creole-style townhouses in Tremé.
Athens, Greece
[caption id="attachment_52477" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Source: DepositPhotos.
Dating back to 400 B.C., the stonework of Athens, Greece, is some of the oldest architecture in the world. A prime example of the country’s classical heritage, the Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the center of Athens.
The center of Athens is full of history and combines both modern and neoclassical design elements. The columns, pediments, and friezes of these beautiful buildings are placed next to columns and other elements of more modern designs. The Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Hephaestus, the Ancient and Roman Agoras, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus are incredible structures. It is really fun to imagine how these buildings were created without any modern tools.
St. Petersburg, Russia
[caption id="attachment_52478" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Source: DepositPhotos.
The European Baroque and Neoclassical styles blend beautifully in St. Petersburg, Russia. The stunning cathedrals, palaces, and churches create an iconic skyline with gilded domes and towers.
One of the finest examples of rococo-style architecture in St. Petersburg is the Catherine Palace. With its dreamy pastel colors, curvy lines, and refined columns, the Catherine Palace truly resembles a fairytale. It is especially a treat for architecture lovers.
Marrakesh, Morocco
[caption id="attachment_52479" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Marrakesh is located in the country Morocco and has some of the most stunning structures in the entire world! After many years, Marrakech architecture still captivates tourist, and after visiting the Medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll understand the reason why!
Marrakesh has famous places like Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace that show ancient and beautiful architecture that goes back to the 12th century. With gorgeous arches, Marrakech is a dream come true for architecture lovers.
Miami, Florida
[caption id="attachment_52480" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Source: DepositPhotos.
You might think Miami is just another city with no unique architecture worth checking out, but that is not true. Miami boasts the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world due to 1920s and 30s city transformations with techniques of art deco symmetries, geometric patterns, pastel colors, and floral designs. While most of the Art Deco architecture can be seen in the South Beach District, the modern skyscrapers in the city are also worth seeing.
Miami’s mix of the old and the new, tradition and innovation, means the city is an architectural treasure trove that never ceases to enthrall locals and tourists alike.
Dubai, UAE
[caption id="attachment_52481" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Credit: DepositPhotos.
Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, is an architectural wonderland. The fusion of world-class contemporary design and elements of traditional Arabian design is one of the many things that makes the city so special. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, makes Dubai a must-see for all fans of modern architecture.
While some might not like the style of architecture in Dubai, the commitment and drive of the city to expand and explore new horizons in the field of engineering is truly commendable.
11 Day Trips From Reno: Desert Stops For Everyone To Enjoy
[caption id="attachment_48215" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Image Credit: Deposit Photos.
If you want to day trip from Reno, Nevada, look no further. This article explores the best day trips from Reno. Options range from skiing at Mount Rose to kicking back at Steamboat Hot Springs. It’s all possible in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains. Grab your gear to go!
Fly-Fishing, Skiing, Hiking, and Much More: 10 Montana Vacation Spots
[caption id="attachment_48216" align="alignnone" width="1600"]
Credits for the photo go to Deposit Photos.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure in Montana? This article will share the best places to visit in the state! At Yellowstone National Park, you can see the famous geysers, then head to Glacier National Park for some incredible views. Bozeman offers skiing and whitewater rafting for a rush! Get ready for a trip to Montana’s beautiful parks and the wilderness full of wildlife!
Best 16 Utah Vacation Spots
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.
If you want a vacation with a lot of different activities and some exploring of beautiful nature, Utah is a great choice! This article explores the activities offered at some of Utah’s best destinations, including Zion National Park and the Homestead Crater. Hiking, skiing, and even hot springs are great ways to experience Utah’s stunning natural landscapes. Utah’s beautiful landscapes are waiting for you to explore!
10 National Parks To Skip If You Have Young Children
Photo Credit: Deposit Photos.
Are you taking your young kids to the national parks for the first time? Then you have to read this article! From Denali National Park’s rough terrain to limited access at Isle Royale National Park, learn about the top 10 national parks to skip with young kids. We break down the difficult and dangerous aspects of taking young kids to these national parks and help you plan for a fun and safe family adventure.
