The Sphinx in Giza, famous wonder of the world near Cairo, Egypt.
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9 iconic landmarks that live up to the hype

There are just some places around the globe that are truly exceptional, and everybody must visit. These monuments aren’t only iconic because they’re beautiful or historical, but because they are also something greater.

They are a homage to the past, a symbol of human achievement or a wonder of nature.

Below are 9 must-visit monuments every traveler should visit at least once in his life.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest reef and a natural wonder rich in marine life. It stretches more than 1,400 miles offshore from Australia, a haven for divers and snorkelers.

The reef’s vibrant corals, fish and marine fauna are unparalleled on this planet. Climate change makes the reef’s preservation more important than ever and should be viewed and enjoyed while it’s thriving.

The Great Wall of China

China’s Great Wall, at 13,000 miles long, is a symbol of courage and resilience. This wall, built over centuries to repel invading armies, runs through mountains, deserts and lush valleys.

When you walk along its rough stones, you are reminded of the effort and the history that went into creating such a huge monument.

The Eiffel Tower, France

The Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the world’s most iconic structures. It looms majestically over the city, a gorgeous work of engineering and sculpture.

The tower glows at night, creating an ethereal atmosphere that draws millions of people every year. Whether you climb up to the top to see Paris or just enjoy it from below, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see romantic and historic landmark.

The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The pyramids of Giza, out in the desert outside Cairo, are a spectacle that has endured for millennia. These enormous stone structures were constructed as tombs for Egyptian pharaohs and are a marvel of engineering.

If you get the chance to see the pyramids up close, you will find yourself intrigued at how these pyramids could have been created so accurately, using just simple tools.

The Colosseum, Italy

Rome’s Colosseum is testament to the creative might of the Roman Empire. This huge amphitheater was once home to gladiator matches and other public performances for thousands of spectators.

You feel the grandeur and excitement of ancient Rome when you visit the Colosseum. Walking under its arches and looking over the arena, it is not hard to imagine the cheers of the audience and the drama.

The Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is a beautiful place with a love story behind it. Constructed by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, this white marble work is a monument to faith.

Its reflection in the pool around it, particularly at sunrise or sunset, is something to behold. Its intricate carvings in stone, along with the tranquil gardens, make the Taj Mahal one of the world’s most beautiful buildings.

Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is in New York Harbor, welcoming tourists and immigrants for more than 100 years. It was a gift from France to America: a symbol of liberty and optimism.

You get an amazing view of New York City when you go up to the top. The statue symbolizes a new beginning, and for many it is a landmark.

The Acropolis, Greece

Athens’s Acropolis serves as a monument to Greek culture and thought. It lies on a hill above the city and is home to iconic buildings such as the Parthenon, built in honor of the goddess Athena.

As you wander among the ruins, you experience the legacy of people that shaped so much of Western culture. This Acropolis is not just beautiful in architecture but infused with ancient Greek myths and legends.

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Christ the Redeemer is a massive statue of Jesus holding his arms open above Rio de Janeiro. It is a religious and Brazilian cultural symbol.

The statue looks out across the city, and Rio’s beaches, mountains and forests. To visit it is both a pilgrimage and an opportunity to admire one of the most beautiful sites in the world.

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