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Marvels of architectural splendor spanning time

By Esther Muhozi
On 23 September 2023 at 07:03

Art is an inherent part of many cultures and civilisations. Through color, sculpture, statues, design and interpretative arts, people have used creative expression for many centuries. In the heart of the bustling historic town of statues, those grand expressions of human ingenuity in art and architecture, stand as testament to the rich tapestry of human history.

Through epochs known and unknown, these masterpieces have enthralled generations, encapsulating the very essence of their eras.

Whether hewn from primitive rocks in the prehistoric past or chiseled from colossal monoliths during medieval times, these iconic sculptures have not only captured the imaginations of tourists and archaeologists but have also etched their names indelibly in the annals of fame.

Seventeen Sculptures That Transcend Time

Each of these statues, a triumph of craftsmanship, tells a unique story and stands as a symbol of the place it graces today. They are the stuff of dreams and deserve a place on every traveler’s bucket list. Without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the magnificence of the 17 most famous statues in the world.

1. Statue Of Liberty, New York

The embodiment of freedom and democracy, Lady Liberty stands tall in New York Harbor, a beacon of hope to immigrants seeking a new life in the United States.

2. Christ The Redeemer, Rio De Janeiro

Perched atop the Corcovado Mountain, this colossal statue of Jesus Christ watches over the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, offering solace and inspiration to all who behold it.

3. Moai, Easter Island, Chile

The mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island, with their enigmatic expressions and colossal proportions, have baffled historians and archaeologists for centuries.

4. Little Mermaid, Denmark

Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved character comes to life in the form of the Little Mermaid statue, captivating visitors with her wistful gaze in Copenhagen’s harbor.

5. The Thinker, Paris

Auguste Rodin’s iconic sculpture, The Thinker, invites contemplation as it sits in silent reflection at the entrance to the Musée Rodin in Paris.

6. David Statue, Italy

Michelangelo’s David, a symbol of human potential and beauty, stands as a testament to the artistic genius of the Italian Renaissance in Florence.

7. Terrace Of The Lions, Delos, Greece

On the sacred island of Delos, the Terrace of the Lions stands as guardians of ancient Greek mythology, preserving the legacy of this ancient civilization.

8. The Statues Of Mount Nemrut, Turkey

The colossal stone heads at Mount Nemrut, surrounded by an air of mystery, pay tribute to a once-mighty kingdom that has long since faded into history.

9. The Motherland Calls Statue, Russia

This colossal statue in Volgograd, formerly Stalingrad, commemorates the sacrifices of the Soviet soldiers during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II.

10. The Statue of Unity, India

The imposing figure of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, stands as a symbol of national unity in the Indian state of Gujarat.

11. The Manneken Pis, Belgium

Brussels’ cheeky icon, the Manneken Pis, has delighted visitors for centuries with its irreverent sense of humor.

12. Great Sphinx Of Giza, Egypt

The enigmatic Sphinx, guardian of the pyramids, continues to captivate the world with its timeless allure, shrouded in tales of ancient Egypt.

13. Spring Temple Buddha, China

The world’s tallest statue, the Spring Temple Buddha, exudes serenity and grace as it towers over the lush Chinese landscape, embodying the essence of Buddhism.

14. The Pieta, Tuscany

One of the oldest and largest statues in the world is The Pieta located in Italy. Every year thousands of tourists come to visit this masterpiece which is known for its unique architecture and culture. The statue depicts mother Mary holding Jesus after the crucifixion

15. The Terracotta Army, Xian

One of the world famous statues is none other than The Terracotta Army located in China which is carved out of Terracotta clay. Legends say that more than 700,000 labourers worked day in and out to built this masterpiece which is an army where every soldier has a different facial expression.

16. Olmec Colossal Heads, San Lorenzo

Olmec Colossal Heads located in Mexico is indeed one of the famous statues around the world. The statue is sculpted out of enormous basalt bounders and the heads have a mysterious history. A total of 17 heads have been discovered till date and each head expressing differently.

17. The Leshan Giant Buddha, Sichuan

In Lushan, the Leshan Giant Buddha is one of the most popular and tallest statues in China. It is considered to have been carved out of a cliff of Qifeng Peak which is regarded as the largest stone statue of Maitreya. The statue is built over the meeting point of the three rivers which was to calm down the turbulence which occurred due to falling of stones in the river.

These 17 statues, scattered across the globe, are more than mere works of art; they are living witnesses to the passage of time, reflecting the spirit and ethos of their respective cultures.

Each one tells a story, carries a message, and leaves an indelible mark on all who are fortunate enough to behold them. So, as you plan your travels, remember to include these marvelous sculptures in your itinerary, for they are not just monuments; they are testaments to the enduring power of human creativity and expression.


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