Eight of the Most Famous Monuments in European Capitals
Europe is home to some of the most amazing and historically significant monuments in the world. Some sights have fascinated travellers for centuries. And some, modern ones, have risen to prominence quite quickly, winning the hearts of tourists.
In addition to the world-famous Big Ben in London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Colosseum in Rome, discover Prague's Charles Bridge, Kyiv's Motherland or the Atomium in Brussels - Europe's most amazing monuments that are symbols of their cities. If you appreciate beauty, a visit to these sights should be on your bucket list. They offer an insight into the cultural heritage of their place and leave a great memory.
Big Ben, London, United Kingdom
Built in 1859, Big Ben is one of the most recognisable symbols of London and the UK with its iconic four-dial clock and bell. It is one of the most famous landmarks you will find in Europe. The Big Ben is 96 metres high and located in the northern part of the Palace of Westminster, where the Houses of Parliament of the United Kingdom meet. After the reconstruction, it shines golden in the sun as it overlooks Westminster and the Thames. Tourists visiting London, first of all, take pictures in front of Big Ben.
Motherland, Kyiv, Ukraine
The Motherland sculpture in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, is the tallest monumental sculpture in Europe and is a kind of Kyiv's calling card, opened in 1981. It is part of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine of the Second World War. The sculpture measures 102 metres in height and weighs approximately 500 tonnes. A year after the outbreak of the full-scale Russian war in Ukraine, in 2023, the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy decided to replace the Soviet coat of arms with a Ukrainian trident on the Motherland monument.
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower in Paris is perhaps the most famous landmark in Europe. It offers beautiful views both during the day and at night, when you can watch the light show. On sunny days, many people choose to have a picnic on the Champ de Mars in front of the famous tower, which has become a symbol not only of Paris but of France as a whole. The tower was designed by the French engineer Gustave Eiffel as a temporary structure for the 1889 World's Fair. Today, the city's signature spire is an integral part of the Parisian cityscape, marking one of the most famous landmarks in Europe and the world.
Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic
The Charles Bridge is a lesser-known but truly enchanting European landmark located along the picturesque Vltava River in the Czech capital, Prague. It reflects the essence of the history and charm of Prague, one of the most beautiful cities in Eastern Europe. The bridge is always bustling with life: bustling musicians, artists and souvenir sellers add to the vibrant atmosphere for tourists. The bridge offers a magnificent view of Prague Castle, another fascinating historical landmark in Prague.
Atomium, Brussels, Belgium
The Atomium, a colossal structure of an iron atom, is not only impressive from the outside. You can also go inside the structure of the atom. This is one of the best reasons to visit Brussels. Inside the nine spheres are museums and exhibitions, light displays and an observation deck. The Atomium is definitely worth a visit. It's one of the most modern landmarks in Europe, built in the 20th century, but it just goes to show how impressive it is that it has become so iconic in such a short time.
Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The Colosseum in Rome is another one of the most famous landmarks in Europe and one of the seven new wonders of the world. The Roman Colosseum is also a constant symbol of the ancient world. It was built almost two thousand years ago by order of Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD. It was finally completed by his son and successor Titus in 80 AD. The massive stone and concrete structure stands 160 feet tall and has a circumference of 1788 feet - a staggering scale at the time. Inside the structure, you can imagine ancient scenes of gladiators and wild animals fighting here during the heyday of the Roman Empire.
Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is a testament to the ancient Greek civilisation. Perched high on a rocky outcrop in Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in thousands of years of history and attracts tourists from all over the world. A visit to the Acropolis is a must in any itinerary to Greece for those who want to see the sights of ancient Greece. It is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in Europe.
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany
The Brandenburg Gate is a true emblem of Berlin. It holds a special place in history and symbolises the unity of Germany. Standing in the heart of the city, this majestic gate is an eye-catcher. Its grandeur and architectural beauty are breathtaking, making it a must-see Berlin landmark. But its historical significance is another reason for its popularity: until 1989, the Berlin Wall ran right in front of the gate, separating East Berlin from West Berlin. When the wall was demolished on 22 December 1989, Berliners were tearing down the wall at the Brandenburg Gate.