The Most Popular Monument in the World, Ranked

Choose the monument you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 7, 2024 06:44
When planning a trip to experience monumental sites, knowing which ones have captivated others can greatly enhance your itinerary. By ranking the most celebrated monuments across the globe, travelers gain insight into what makes each site special, arming them with knowledge to prioritize their visits. This not only enriches the travel experience but also aids in understanding cultural significance. Through a collective voting system, this site allows visitors to contribute their opinions and helps others gauge which monuments resonate most with the global audience. Each vote cast helps to shape a dynamic list that reflects current trends and interests, offering an updated guide to the world's top attractions. This engaging process encourages participation and ensures the rankings represent a wide variety of perspectives.

What Is the Most Popular Monument in the World?

  1. 1
    25
    votes
    This iconic monument stands tall at 324 meters and attracts millions of visitors every year. It was built in 1889 and has become a symbol of Paris and France.
    The Eiffel Tower is an iconic iron lattice tower located in Paris, France. It stands tall at a height of 324 meters and was completed in 1889. The tower has become a symbol of France and is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It attracts millions of visitors annually who come to admire its architectural beauty and panoramic views of the city.
    • Height: 324 meters
    • Construction Period: 1887-1889
    • Materials: Iron
    • Weight: 7,300 tons
    • Visitors per Year: Approximately 7 million
    The Eiffel Tower - Paris, France in other rankings
  2. 2
    28
    votes
    The Great Wall of China - China
    Severin.stalder · CC BY-SA 3.0
    This ancient wall stretches over 13,000 miles and is one of the most impressive engineering feats in history. It attracts millions of visitors every year and is a symbol of Chinese culture and history.
    The Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic structures in the world, is a massive fortified wall that stretches across the historical northern borders of China. It represents an incredible feat of human engineering and serves as a symbol of Chinese civilization and defensive architecture.
    • Length: Approximately 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles)
    • Age: Construction started in the 7th century BC and continued throughout several dynasties
    • Height: Varies between 5 to 8 meters (16 to 26 feet)
    • Width: Varies between 4.5 to 8 meters (15 to 26 feet)
    • Material: Mainly consists of stone, brick, tamped earth, wood, and other materials
    The Great Wall of China - China in other rankings
  3. 3
    23
    votes
    This ancient amphitheater was built in 80 AD and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rome. It was used for gladiator fights and other public events and is now a popular tourist attraction.
    The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an iconic monument located in Rome, Italy. It is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved structures of ancient Roman architecture. The Colosseum was originally commissioned by Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus in 80 AD. This grand amphitheater was primarily used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and various events in ancient Rome.
    • Location: Rome, Italy
    • Architectural style: Ancient Roman
    • Size: 189 meters long, 156 meters wide, and 50 meters high
    • Capacity: Approximately 50,000-80,000 spectators
    • Materials used: Concrete, travertine, and tuff stones
    The Colosseum - Rome, Italy in other rankings
  4. 4
    14
    votes
    This white marble mausoleum was built in the 17th century and is one of the most beautiful and impressive buildings in the world. It is a symbol of love and is visited by millions of people every year.
    The Taj Mahal is a magnificent architectural masterpiece located in Agra, India. It is considered one of the most famous and beautiful buildings in the world. Built in the 17th century, it was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. The monument showcases a seamless blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles.
    • Location: Agra, India
    • Construction Period: 1632-1653 AD
    • Architecture Style: Indo-Islamic
    • Materials Used: White marble, red sandstone
    • Height: 73 meters (240 feet)
  5. 5
    16
    votes
    The Statue of Liberty - New York, USA
    Elcobbola · Public domain

    The Statue of Liberty - New York, USA

    Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi
    This famous statue was gifted to the United States by France in 1886 and has become a symbol of freedom and democracy. It stands tall at 305 feet and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
    The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, USA. It was a gift from the people of France to the United States, dedicated on October 28, 1886, and has since become one of the most iconic symbols of freedom and democracy.
    • Height: 93 meters (305 feet)
    • Weight: 225 tons
    • Material: Copper
    • Construction: Iron framework designed by Gustave Eiffel
    • Base: Granite pedestal
    The Statue of Liberty - New York, USA in other rankings
  6. 6
    8
    votes
    These ancient structures were built over 4,500 years ago and are some of the most impressive and iconic monuments in the world. They are a symbol of the power and greatness of the ancient Egyptian civilization.
    The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are one of the most famous and iconic monuments in the world. These ancient structures provide a glimpse into the rich history and advanced engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.
    • Location: Giza, Egypt
    • Age: Built around 2600 to 2500 BC
    • Size: The largest pyramid, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stands about 138.8 meters (455 feet) tall
    • Material: The pyramids were primarily constructed using limestone
    • Purpose: Believed to be burial tombs for the pharaohs, with accompanying funerary complexes
  7. 7
    9
    votes
    The Machu Picchu - Peru
    Martin St-Amant (S23678) · CC BY-SA 3.0
    This ancient Incan city is located high in the Andes mountains and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. It was built in the 15th century and is a symbol of the ingenuity and creativity of the Incan people.
    Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is renowned as one of the most famous, impressive, and well-preserved archaeological sites in the world. Built in the 15th century, Machu Picchu showcases the architectural and engineering marvels of the Inca civilization. The site is often referred to as the 'Lost City of the Incas' and is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983.
    • Location: Andes Mountains, Peru
    • Built: 15th century
    • Type: Ancient Inca citadel
    • Significance: UNESCO World Heritage site
    • Size: Approximately 32,592 hectares (80,620 acres)
  8. 8
    15
    votes
    The Big Ben - London, UK
    Diliff · CC BY 2.5
    This iconic clock tower is located in the heart of London and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. It was built in 1859 and is a symbol of British culture and history.
    The Big Ben is an iconic clock tower located in London, UK. It is often used to refer to the clock tower as well as the great bell housed within it. The tower is part of the Palace of Westminster and is a significant symbol of British history and culture.
    • Location: London, UK
    • Height: 96 meters (315 feet)
    • Construction Period: 1834 - 1859
    • Architectural Style: Gothic Revival
    • Clock Faces: Four clock faces, each measuring 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter
  9. 9
    7
    votes
    This impressive statue of Jesus Christ stands tall at 98 feet and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Brazil. It was built in 1931 and is a symbol of Brazilian culture and religion.
    The Christ the Redeemer Statue is a famous monument located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is considered one of the most popular landmarks in the world. The statue depicts Jesus Christ with open arms, symbolizing peace and his embrace for all humanity. Standing atop the Corcovado mountain, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and is a significant cultural and religious symbol for Brazil and the world.
    • Height: 30 meters (98 feet)
    • Arm Span: 28 meters (92 feet)
    • Material: Reinforced concrete and soapstone
    • Weight: 635 metric tons
    • Construction Duration: 9 years (1922-1931)
  10. 10
    3
    votes
    This ancient citadel was built in the 5th century BC and is one of the most important and impressive landmarks in Greece. It contains many ancient buildings and structures and is a symbol of Greek culture and history.
    The Acropolis is a renowned ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens, Greece. It stands as a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and is an iconic landmark in the country.
    • Location: Athens, Greece
    • Construction Period: 5th century BCE
    • Architectural Style: Ancient Greek
    • Primary Material: Marble
    • Height: 156 meters (512 feet)

Missing your favorite monument?

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Ranking factors for popular monument

  1. Number of visitors
    The number of tourists visiting the monument annually is a key factor in determining its popularity. More visitors generally indicate a higher level of interest and appeal.
  2. Historical significance
    The importance of the monument in terms of history, culture, and its role in shaping societies and civilizations can greatly influence its popularity.
  3. Architectural and artistic value
    Monuments that showcase exceptional design, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal often attract more visitors and gain greater recognition.
  4. UNESCO World Heritage status
    Monuments that are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites often receive special attention and increased interest from tourists, boosting their popularity.
  5. Accessibility
    How easily a monument can be reached by visitors, either through transportation options or by location, can influence the number of people who visit it.
  6. Cultural impact and symbolism
    Monuments that represent significant cultural values, ideals, or beliefs can carry more weight and popularity in the eyes of the public.
  7. Social media presence
    The number of followers, likes, and engagement on social media platforms can reflect the popularity of a monument in the digital age.
  8. Events, ceremonies, and celebrations
    Monuments that serve as gathering spots for significant events or ceremonies may receive more attention and attract more visitors throughout the year.
  9. Educational value
    Monuments that offer visitors the opportunity to learn about history, culture, art, or science can hold a higher level of popularity.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular monument in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Monument is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1714 views
  • 140 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Monument once every 24 hours. The rank of each Monument is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular monument in the world

Monuments have always played a significant role in history, culture, and society. From ancient pyramids to modern-day skyscrapers, these structures have captured the imagination and admiration of people across the globe. But which monument is the most popular in the world? The answer to this question is not so straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as popularity, cultural and historical significance, and tourism. However, some of the most widely recognized and visited monuments in the world include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum in Rome, and the Taj Mahal in India. Each of these structures has a unique story and legacy that has captured the hearts and minds of people worldwide. Whether it's the grandeur of their architecture, the cultural significance they hold, or the historical events associated with them, these monuments continue to fascinate and inspire us.

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