When you think of Europe, what spring to mind? Could it be its spectacular architecture, gorgeous beaches, iconic landscapes, fabulous food or enthralling historical background? As the world’s smallest continent it certainly packs a punch when it comes to offering an abundance of great landmarks to visit and explore. While it’s easy to dismiss a European landmark if you’ve seen it on TV or in a magazine a countless number of times, there is nothing quite like letting yourself get blown away by a stunning building and truly appreciating the beauty of a landmark in person. Before you jet off, be sure you renew your EHIC to ensure a care-free European landmark experience. Who says you have to travel further afield to have the adventure of a lifetime?
The Eiffel Tower, Paris
While Gustave Eiffel is normally credited with designing the world famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, it is in fact the brain child of two lesser known men, Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier. Their original drawings won the design competition that enabled the wrought iron tower we know and love to be built from 1887 and to be completed two years later, in 1889. Coming in at 10,000 tons and covered in 5 billion lights, the Eiffel Tower is certainly a spectacle to behold!
Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Apart from the monuments around Paris, Mont Saint-Michel is the most visited tourist attraction in France. The unusual walled city and its great gothic abbey are built on a small outcrop on the flats of the river Couesnon in Mont Saint Michel Bay. The medieval city of Saint Michel is one of the few places in France that have preserved its walls and defences and embraces over one million tourists a year. Why not become one of them?
The Parthenon, Athens
As one of the surviving structures of Ancient Greece, it’s no wonder that the Parthenon in Athens is one of the most famous buildings in the world. The Parthenon has stood proudly over the Acropolis of Athens for nearly 2,500 years and was built to give thanks to Athena, the city’s goddess. Its main function has been as a Greek temple but it has also been used as a mosque, church, treasury and fortress.
Trevi Fountain, Rome
Located in the Quirinale district of Rome, the Trevi Fountain is known as one of the most stunning fountains in the world. As one of 1,352 fountains built during 4th century Rome, the Trevi Fountain has always stood out from others due to its grandeur and ornate sculptures and design features. After a long closure it went through period of intensive restoration thanks to the donations of internationally renowned fashion house, Fendi, who spent $2.2 million in the process.
Leaning Tower Of Pisa, Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was initially constructed in 1172, with the building process stopping several times by wars, debts and while engineers tried to find solutions to correct its lean. Somehow the leaning tower avoided toppling over entirely and its completion was seen in the mid-1300s. The Tower is actually the churches bell tower and was built to highlight the importance of the city.
