There are many famous landmarks in the globe, each having a unique history and secret.
These sites, which range from tall buildings to beautiful natural features, are more than just tourist destinations; they have fascinating histories.
Let’s explore the top 15 surprising facts about famous landmarks that will alter your perspective on these recognizable locations.
Top 15 Facts About Famous Landmarks That Will Surprise You
1. The Eiffel Tower Was Almost Torn Down
Originally built as a temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was scheduled to be dismantled.
However, its use as a radio transmission tower saved it from demolition, making it one of the most famous landmarks today.
2. The Great Wall of China Is Not a Single Wall
The Great Wall is actually a collection of walls constructed over many centuries by various dynasties, despite what many people think.
It is one of the longest man-made structures in history, spanning more than 13,000 miles.
3. The Leaning Tower of Pisa Wasn’t Supposed to Lean
Unstable foundation soil is the cause of the Leaning Tower of Pisa’s well-known tilt.
Although the tower’s lean has been somewhat lessened over the years due to stabilization efforts, it is still one of Italy’s most recognizable famous landmarks.
4. Mount Rushmore Was Meant to Be Bigger
The presidents’ entire torsos were part of the original design for Mount Rushmore.
Yet, the sculpture was only able to depict their heads due to lack of funding and the rugged terrain. It remains a remarkable mechanical and artistic achievement.
5. The Taj Mahal Changes Color
The Taj Mahal seems to change color with the time of day, going from pinkish tones in the morning to golden tones in the evening.
The white marble’s ability to reflect sunlight is the cause of these phenomena.
6. The Statue of Liberty Wasn’t Always Green
The Statue of Liberty was a gleaming copper when it was first explored.
The copper eventually acquired its recognizable green patina due to oxidation.
7. The Colosseum Had a Retractable Roof
Because of the Romans’ extraordinary inventiveness, the Colosseum had a retractable awning system called the “velarium.”
It highlighted the complex engineering of the day by offering shade to spectators during activities.
8. Machu Picchu Was Hidden for Centuries
Until explorer Hiram Bingham rediscovers it in 1911, this old Incan city was unknown to the outside world.
It was preserved for centuries due to its isolated location in the Andes.
9. The Pyramids of Giza Were Once Shiny
The pyramids sparkle brightly in the sunlight because they were originally covered in polished limestone.
The rough surfaces we see today are the result of the loss of this outer layer over time.
10. The Sydney Opera House Was Inspired by an Orange
When creating the famous sails of the Sydney Opera House, Jørn Utzon was influenced by the concept of peeling an orange.
It is among the most recognizable structures in the world because of this original idea.
11. Big Ben Refers to the Bell, Not the Clock
Big Ben is actually a nickname for the Great Bell within, even though many people mistake it for the clock tower. The Elizabeth Tower is the official name of the tower.
12. Niagara Falls Can Be Turned Off
In order to investigate erosion, engineers momentarily halted the Niagara Falls’ flow in 1969.
They exposed the riverbed beneath one of the world’s most potent waterfalls by rerouting the water.
13. The Burj Khalifa Can Sway in the Wind
The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure, is made to endure strong winds.
Its stability and safety are guaranteed by the fact that it can swing up to two meters at its highest point.
14. The Stonehenge Rocks Came From 150 Miles Away
From Wales, the enormous stones needed to construct Stonehenge were brought more than 150 miles.
It is still unclear how the ancients accomplished this without the aid of contemporary technology.
15. The Golden Gate Bridge Is not Gold
The Golden Gate Bridge is painted a vivid orange-red tint, in spite of its name.
The paint, called “International Orange,” was used because it would be visible in the frequent fog in San Francisco.
Bottom Line
These Facts about Famous Landmarks show how these worldwide symbols contain a wealth of creativity, history, and mystery.
From unexpected beginnings to obscure characteristics, every landmark has a backstory worth discovering.
The next time you visit these places, you will see them in a whole new light. Which landmark will you explore first?
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