By Joanna Oyeleke
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting.â€
The world is indeed filled with breathtaking buildings that go beyond just bricks and mortar – they tell stories, reflect culture, and showcase the creativity of humanity across time.
From ancient wonders to modern-day masterpieces, here are ten of the most beautiful buildings in the world that you should know about.
1. Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal in India is one of the world’s most beautiful buildings. A symbol of love and loss, the Taj Mahal in Agra was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
With its stunning white marble and symmetrical design, it’s one of the most iconic and romantic buildings in the world.
2. HallgrÃmskirkja, Iceland
Next on the list of the world’s most beautiful buildings is Hallgŕimskirkja in Iceland.
The Evangelical-Lutheran church is a living and thriving church in the centre of ReykjavÃk. This striking church in ReykjavÃk stands tall like a rocket ship. Inspired by Iceland’s natural landscapes, its unique structure and tall tower make it one of the most recognizable buildings in the country and in the world.
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3. The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Wondering why the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt is among the world’s most beautiful buildings? It is because it is one of the oldest and most stoic structures of all time.
Built over 4,000 years ago, the Great Pyramids of Giza remain one of the greatest architectural feats in history. They were constructed as tombs for pharaohs and still leave people wondering how such perfection was achieved in ancient times.
4. Fallingwater, USA
Designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright for the Kaufmanns, Fallingwater is a house built right over a waterfall in Pennsylvania. Its harmony with nature makes it a masterpiece of modern architecture and one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
5. Ad-Dayr, Petra, Jordan
Ad-Dayr is a monumental building carved out of rock in the ancient city of Petra in southern Jordan.
This ancient structure can be referred to as a mix of engineering, artistry, and mystery all rolled into one.
6. Fondation Louis Vuitton, France
Another beautiful piece of art in the list of the world’s most beautiful buildings is the Louis Vuitton Fondation. Located in Paris, this modern art museum looks like a futuristic sailboat made of glass. Designed by Frank Gehry, it’s not just a place for art – it’s a work of art itself.
7. Trinity College Library, Ireland
Although a library, Trinity College Library is one of the world’s most beautiful buildings.
Also known as The Long Room in Trinity College Dublin, it is every reader’s dream, with towering wooden shelves, ancient books, and a magical, old-world feel.
8. Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali
Built in the thirteenth century, the Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is another ancient piece of art that qualifies as one of the world’s most beautiful buildings till date. Built entirely of mud and wood, this mosque is the largest mud-brick building in the world.
9. Nasir al-Molk Mosque, Iran
Also known as the Pink Mosque, this stunning building in Shiraz is famous for its colourful stained-glass windows. Its crowning jewel is the prayer room, which is flooded with kaleidoscopic colours at sunrise, dreamily illuminating the walls.
This mosque is what can be referred to as a stellar example of beauty.
10. The Twist, Norway
Finally, on the list of the world’s most beautiful buildings is The Twist in Norway.
A true example of modern design, The Twist is both a bridge and an art gallery. It twists in the middle and blends perfectly into the forested landscape around it.