The 7 most ambitious architectural projects of all time, Best building designs around the world

The 7 Most Ambitious Architectural Projects of All Time

3 February 2025

History is filled with grand buildings whose architectural plans and construction were nothing short of ambitious. Many of these buildings remain standing, despite being centuries old, and hold a continued significance in human history and culture. Even in more recent history, architectural plans like the International Space Station have brought dreams to life that are still hard to believe.

To celebrate these monumental achievements, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most ambitious architectural projects of all time. These projects have left an impressive mark on our collective history and will likely continue to fascinate us for centuries to come.

1. The Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt)

Built approximately 4,000 years ago, the Great Pyramid of Giza is an architectural wonder that continues to reveal secrets and leave visitors in awe. It’s part of a greater pyramid complex but is the largest of the group, comprising an estimated 2.3 million limestone blocks. The pyramid was built primarily as the resting place of King Khufu and as a symbol of the prosperity and power of the King and the pharaohs who came before and after him. It is thought to have taken twenty years to construct. Before centuries of erosion, the pyramid stood at a height of 481 feet, and how it was constructed is still shrouded in mystery. However, one thing is known and undeniable: the pyramids are nothing short of an architectural marvel.

2. The Great Wall of China (China)

With a total length exceeding 20,000 kilometers, the Great Wall of China is an impressive and significant piece of military architecture. Its construction began in the third century BCE to defend Ancient China from invasions and took two centuries to complete. The wall was more than a physical barrier between China and neighboring regions; it also provided horse tracks, watchtowers, and shelters, allowing it to serve multiple purposes in protecting the nation. It continues to symbolize the military strength and foresight of the country and has become a major tourist site—though often at the cost of its structural integrity.

3. The Colosseum (Italy)

The Colosseum is an iconic Ancient Roman building known for its gladiator battles and spectacular architecture. It’s the largest amphitheater of the ancient world and displays three Roman column orders. The building has withstood time and countless natural disasters, yet many parts remain standing. It was constructed of travertine stone and stood over 150 feet tall, towering over other buildings that would have existed at its completion in 72 AD. The building was one of the most complex buildings ever made at that time to symbolize the Roman Empire’s strength and power. It still influences the design of modern sports stadiums and theatres.

4. The Taj Mahal (India)

The Taj Mahal is an impressive white marble creation constructed in memory of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s wife. It was built between 1631 and 1648, and centuries later, it still leaves visitors in awe. The building required many skilled laborers to complete and is considered one of the greatest Indo-Islamic architectural achievements. The Taj Mahal includes a mosque, guest house, covered walkways, and an outer courtyard, all arranged symmetrically with a sense of grandeur. The site was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

5. The Sagrada Familia (Spain)

Designed by the famed architect Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia is a unique Roman Catholic Basilica in Gaudi’s signature style—rich in organic forms, symmetry, and highly detailed. The building’s construction began in 1882 and, believe it or not, still continues to this day. Its design is highly symbolic and complex, with twists and coils in the columns, vaults, and walls that allow the building to be self-standing. Gaudi dedicated most of his life to working on the project before passing away in 1926.

6. The Eiffel Tower (France)

The design and construction of the Eiffel Tower was an incredibly ambitious and, at times, controversial architectural vision. One of many designs submitted for the 1889 International Exposition, it was selected for its lightweight look, its soaring height, which would make it the tallest structure in the world, and its display of French engineering. The tower’s primary material is wrought iron, crafted in an ornate lattice style that provides visual interest and strength, allowing it to reach its full 984-foot height. It was never intended to be a permanent construction, but at the close of the International Exposition, the tower was modified to remain useful. It has since become a permanent fixture, and an architectural monument recognized worldwide.

7. The International Space Station (Space)

Humans have long been fascinated by outer space, so it only seems natural that this would lead to a desire to travel and live among the stars. The International Space Station transformed what many may have once considered a silly dream into a reality. The process of building the space station was intensive, considering basic survivability, comfort, and usability for a small group of individuals.

The result was a design based on modular and prefabricated elements, allowing for versatility in setup and use. Many architectural, engineering, and design experts from different nations came together to develop these solutions. They consulted astronauts who had already spent time in space to help guide their design. It was a massive undertaking with many different iterations considered. By 2000, the station was habitable, and various crews have resided there since.

The 7 most ambitious architectural projects Conclusion

From ancient deserts to modern skies, humans have embarked one some awe-inspiring achievements. While most of us daydream about what we will one day accomplish or keep looking for a 120 free spins casino bonus in hopes of a financial windfall, the visionaries behind these ambitious architectural and engineering feats turned the impossible into reality. These structures, as well as honorable mentions like Machu Picchu, the Lost City of Petra, the Parthenon, and Burj Khalifa, will surely continue to inspire and amaze for centuries to come.

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