Constructing Europe’s Most Famous Landmarks

Did you know these European attractions are some of the most popular in the world?

Over the summer, millions of us will be ditching the UK and finding some time to explore Europe, with popular destinations like Italy, Spain and France set to receive a new wave of tourists. Each of these places boasts destinations that are famous the world over. 

The most popular European landmarks each feature a construction story that demonstrates just how much work went into forging their legacy. These are some of those destinations which will be visited by millions over the summer and are known for their architecture and complex engineering. 

The Colosseum

Starting construction around 70 to 72 CE, the Colosseum wasn’t completed until 80 CE due to its scale and ambitious structure. With 13-metre foundations and travertine limestone forming the outer wall, the gladiatorial arena was truly built to last. 

Seating around 80,000, it is the barrel and groin vaults that allowed the Romans to build the Colosseum four stories high, with the structure becoming Rome’s absolute pride. 

The Eiffel Tower

Created between 1887 and 1889, the Eiffel Tower was originally built for the World’s Fair, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The structure is made from 18,000 open-lattice iron pieces, with well over 2 million rivets holding it together. 

With elevators that can curve with the shape of the structure’s legs and an architectural design tailored to withstand strong winds, the Eiffel Tower really is a marvel. 

The Sagrada Familia 

The Sagrada Familia has only just been completed, having started construction back in 1883. Designed by the famous artist and architect Gaudí, the structure has 18 distinct towers, which take the church to a mighty 172.5 meters in height. 

The forest interior utilises tree-like columns that reach for the sky, while the stained-glass windows allow colourful light to be poured in. The Barcelona icon is constructed from over 50 different types of stone, making it a mosaic of materials. 

The Louvre

Paris also features the world’s largest and most famous art museum, which dates back to the 12th century. While originally intended as a fortress, it was repurposed, with the subterranean structure still visible all these years later. 

The classic glass pyramid was added in 1989, with 673 panels shaping the façade. With galleries spanning over 70,000 square meters, the Louvre has packed its expansive space with gems like the Mona Lisa.