7 Famous Historical Monuments in the World | Best Cities for Architectural Lovers

Visiting a place gives one an insight into the place; its present and past both. Where the markets tell us what to buy and how the economy rolls the buildings and the ruins allow us to explore the architecture and history of the city. No other thing can define a place quite as distinctly as its architecture. Whether it’s through thoughtful urban planning or adapting to cultural movements, the visual design of a city can transport one through time, while planting us firmly in a very specific place. Here is a list of the 7 famous historical monuments in the world:

List of the 7 Famous Historical Monuments in the World

1. St. Petersburg, Russia
2. Brasília, Brazil
3. Athens, Greece
4. Budapest, Hungary
5. Rome, Italy
6. Hanoi, Vietnam
7. Miami, Florida

1. St. Petersburg, Russia

The Rococo movement came about in the 18th century in France as a way to fight against the strict, symmetrical Baroque style that came before it. While both movements are known for their richly decorated architectural styles, Rococo has elements all of its own: think curves, pale colours, and secular, light-hearted themes.

Architecture Style: Rococo

Fun Fact: The style made its way across Europe, where it found favour with the female rulers in St. Petersburg. The Catherine Palace (commissioned by Catherine I and expanded by her daughter, Empress Elizabeth) is by far the most famous example in the area.

How To Reach: You can make a car trip to St Petersburg from Finland, Estonia and Ukraine. The nearest airport will be Pulkovo International Airport and trains are also available.

When To Visit: June to September

Also Read: Top 10 Backpacking Destinations in the World

2. Brasília, Brazil

When Juscelino Kubitschek became President of Brazil in 1956, he set forth a plan to build a new capital city in the barren centre of the country thus, Brasília was born. He commissioned architect Oscar Niemeyer to help with the project; within a matter of months, Niemeyer designed residential, commercial, and government buildings for the new town.

Architecture Style: Futurism

Fun Fact: Chief among the best architectures were the National Congress of Brazil, the Cathedral of Brasilia, the residence of the President, and the Attorney General’s office. The buildings-defined by the dynamic lines, use of materials like concrete and glass, and sharp contrasts typical of Futurism (a branch of Modernism)-give Brazil’s capital a true sense of aesthetic unity.

How To Reach: Brasília has an international airport and a bus terminal. Due to its central location, it is well-connected to other parts of the country by road.

When To Visit: December to March, June to September

Also Read: 5 Best Things to Do In Zurich on Low Budget

3. Athens, Greece

Visiting the historical monuments and world-renowned ruins in Athens is like taking a step back in time to ancient Greece, where stonework dates back to 400 BC, temples are held up by centuries-old columns, and sculptures of deities are a common sighting. Athens is one of the best cities for architecture.

Architecture Style: Classical

Fun Fact: For perfect examples of Classical architecture, turn to the Temple of Hephaestus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, or the iconic Parthenon.

How To Reach: You can reach Athens through a flight. It’s also accessible by luxurious cruises from the US, Europe and Asia.

When To Visit: March to May, September to November

Also Read: Best Budget Friendly Travel Destinations

4. Budapest, Hungary

Art Nouveau came into fashion in Budapest in the late 19th century to early 20th century, and the city remains one of the top 7 famous historical monuments in the world for its architectural style today.

Architecture Style: Art Nouveau

Fun Fact: One can find curving forms, organic shapes, use of iron and glass, and colourful flourishes all over this stretch of the Danube, including the Gresham Palace, Hotel Gellért and spas. Museum of Applied Arts, and Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden.

How To Reach: Located in the centre of Europe, Budapest is comparatively easy to reach. The most common ways are by plane, train or by road.

When To Visit: March to May, September to November

5. Rome, Italy

The Romans were known for being great innovators and creating wonderful historic monuments, so it should come as no surprise that the city of Rome has exemplified and adapted to pretty much every architectural style since the ancient Classical movement (Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance name it).

Architecture Style: Baroque

Fun Fact: Today, the city is one of the biggest centres of 17th-century Baroque architecture, known for its grandiosity, opulence, and contrast between light and shadow. Visit Rome’s St. Peter’s Square, Santi Luca e Martina, or Trevi Fountain to see the dramatic style in person.

How To Reach: There are 5 major International airports in Rome. One can reach Rome from any major city in Europe by train also. By road journey is feasible if you’re in a neighbouring city.

When To Visit: October to April

6. Hanoi, Vietnam

As the name suggests, French Colonial is a style of architecture used by the French during colonization. The style is especially prominent in Southeast Asia, as exemplified by the early 20th-century buildings in Hanoi.

Architecture Style: French Colonial

Fun Fact: Notable examples include the Presidential Palace (completed in 1906) and the Hanoi Opera House (completed in 1911), two bright yellow, ornate reminders of French rule in Vietnam.

How To Reach: Direct flights are available for all three International airports in Vietnam. You can also make a sea voyage on a luxurious cruise to Vietnam.

When To Visit: March to April, September to November

7. Miami, Florida

Perhaps the most iconic on this list, Miami Beach’s Historic District comprises the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world. This district was transformed into an ultramodern and luxury tourist destination during the 1920s and 1930s.

Architecture Style: Art Deco

Fun Fact: Architects turned to Deco’s symmetrical and geometrical patterns, floral and animal motifs, and pastel colours to invoke fluidity and movement, which are synonymous with the city today.

How To Reach: Miami is connected through Miami International Airport.

When To Visit: February to May