MEGAPROGETTI INCREDIBILI: Megastrutture che sembrano impossibili

MEGAPROGETTI INCREDIBILI: Megastrutture che sembrano impossibili

Human ingenuity has flooded the 
planet with colossal megaprojects. Some were born out of necessity, showcasing our 
inventiveness in the face of tough challenges. Others seem to reach for the sky 
with their sheer scale and ambition. Technological and scientific 
progress has made it possible   to build structures that are bigger 
and more complex than ever before. Since ancient times, humanity has shown its 
brilliance by creating these monumental works. Today, we’ll walk among megastructures 
that seem almost impossible. We’ll dive into the most advanced and fascinating 
futuristic tech projects on the planet. Yaxi Expressway – China
This highway winds through the treacherous mountains of China’s Sichuan 
Province, pushing the limits of civil engineering. It’s often called “the stairway to heaven” 
due to the dramatic elevation changes along the way. The route cuts through deep 
valleys, cliffs, and towering peaks. To keep the road at a safe incline, 
numerous elevated segments had to be built. The region’s high seismic activity also 
demanded the use of cutting-edge technology. Construction lasted nearly five years—a constant 
battle against the raw forces of nature. What was once a dangerous ten-hour 
journey along winding mountain   roads now takes far less time.
Chengdu Silicon Cube – China This megaproject stands out 
for its staggering complexity,   requiring incredible engineering 
solutions to manage its energy demands. It houses the Chengdu National 
Supercomputing Center,   a facility built to deliver massive computing 
power for scientific research and industry. It plays a key role in training large 
artificial intelligence models—a field where computing power is absolutely critical.
At its core, the “Silicon Cube” is a giant, intricate machine: a world-class supercomputer. It’s a marvel of computer engineering, with 
processing speeds one hundred million times faster than a high-end desktop.
Xiaolangdi Dam – China This dam was built to control 
flooding, generate electricity,   and stabilize the flow of the Yellow River. The river carries massive amounts of sediment, 
making it prone to catastrophic overflows. Every year, the dam unleashes huge waves 
of water and mud—events so powerful they’ve become a tourist attraction.
It’s known as “the breathing dam” for its advanced system that automatically 
manages the buildup and release of sediment. Ping An Finance Center – China
In just four decades, Shenzhen has transformed from a fishing village into a megacity that’s 
home to tech giants like Tencent, Huawei, and DJI. At the center of its financial district stands 
the Ping An Finance Center, rising 599 meters, or 1,965 feet. It’s the tallest building 
in the city, the second tallest in China, and the fifth tallest in the world.
Its tapered design plays a crucial role by reducing wind loads by 45%—a critical 
factor for structures of this height. Drone light shows have become a 
symbol of the city’s futuristic flair, delivering massive tech-driven spectacles.
After the drones are precisely positioned on the ground, the operator sends the 
launch command from a central computer,   and they rise like a disciplined army.
In the moments before the show, final tests are run, including a short practice 
flight to ensure everything is working properly. Outfitted with LED lights, the drones move with 
incredible precision to form 3D images, smooth animations, and breathtaking visual stories.
It may look like magic, but it’s actually a brilliant fusion of software, 
hardware, and physics. There are no pilots flying them individually; 
it’s all a preprogrammed, autonomous performance. The number of drones varies depending on 
the size and budget of the event. Large shows often feature between 2,000 and 5,000 
drones to create massive, intricate formations. Three Gorges Dam – China
Built along the Yangtze River, it holds the title of the world’s largest 
hydroelectric power plant by installed capacity. It supplies around 10% of the 
nation’s electricity, driving   both industrialization and development.
The complex houses the world’s biggest ship elevator, capable of lifting 
vessels 100 meters, or 328 feet. This engineering marvel 
combines floating platforms,   counterweight systems, and pressure sensors.
The ship enters the elevator, the gates seal, and the motors raise or lower the entire system.
Once it reaches the desired level, the gate opens, and the ship continues its journey.
Chengdu SKP Park – China Unlike typical shopping centers, nearly 
all of this complex lies underground. Designers turned the surface into 
a vast botanical park filled with   lush greenery and entrances leading 
to the subterranean spaces below. This approach gives the city 
a valuable public green space,   while commerce unfolds in an 
elegant world beneath the surface. Rising from the heart of the park is the 
Tower of Vitality, a group of structures animated by powerful water jets.
At night, they glow with LED lights, giving the impression of liquid architecture.
These towers are synchronized with the park’s layout to create a fully immersive, 
futuristic visual experience. Burj Khalifa – United Arab Emirates
Soaring above Dubai stands this titan of 828 meters, or 2,716 feet, with 163 
floors—the tallest skyscraper on Earth. Built at a cost of $1.5 billion, 
it brought together 12,000 workers per day and required technologies 
developed specifically for the project. It holds over a dozen world records, from the 
highest swimming pool to the longest-traveling elevator. Its design draws inspiration 
from the desert flower Hymenocallis. The Sphere – United States
Designed to dazzle, this spherical venue blends technology and spectacle in 
the heart of the entertainment capital. Standing 112 meters, or 367 feet tall, and 
spanning 157 meters, or 515 feet in diameter, it is the largest architectural sphere ever 
built—able to host nearly 20,000 people. Its exterior is lined with 
a million LEDs that power   a massive programmable screen 
for immersive visual displays. Statue of Unity – India
Standing at 182 meters, or 597 feet tall, it holds the title 
of the tallest statue on Earth. Construction required 75,000 cubic meters, or 
2,648,600 cubic feet of concrete, along with 6,000 tons of steel and 2,000 bronze panels.
The statue honors Vallabhbhai Patel, who led the unification of the 
states that formed modern India. Icon of the Seas
The largest cruise ship ever built—a massive floating marvel.
It stretches 365 meters, or 1,197 feet in length, spans 20 decks, and can carry 7,600 
passengers along with 2,350 crew members. The ship features seven themed 
neighborhoods, including a surf zone   and a water district, plus 40 dining venues.
It also houses a water park with six slides, including the tallest one ever installed at sea.
Chongqing Metro – China Also known as Chongqing Rail Transit, 
this urban rail system is one of a kind, built within a massive mountain city.
Developed over two decades, it now spans more than 500 kilometers, 
or 310 miles, of operational track. Chongqing’s rugged terrain and drastic elevation 
changes made construction especially challenging. At Liziba Station, the train famously passes 
through a residential building—a creative solution to the city’s dense skyline.
Shinkansen – Japan Nicknamed the bullet train, it was launched in 
Japan in 1964 and revolutionized high-speed rail, becoming a model for systems worldwide.
The network connects Japan’s major cities via an advanced railway stretching 
roughly 3,000 kilometers, or 1.864 miles. It was the first high-speed train in 
the world and now reaches speeds of   320 kilometers per hour, or 199 miles per hour.
Its punctuality is legendary—the average annual delay is less than 30 seconds. Even storms 
and earthquakes rarely disrupt the schedule. Rain Vortex – Singapore
At 40 meters, or 131 feet tall, this is the highest indoor waterfall on the planet, 
located at the heart of Jewel Changi Airport. The water column drops from the roof of 
a glass dome, surrounded by lush gardens   and futuristic design elements.
An automated system adjusts the strength of the cascade based on collected 
rainfall, making it a smart structure. When night falls, lasers light 
up the flowing water, turning the   space into a 3D spectacle of light and sound.
Beijing Daxing International Airport – China Nicknamed the “Starfish” for its distinctive 
shape, this is a massive and high-tech airport serving China’s capital.
Boarding gates branch out from a central hub along five arms, minimizing 
walking time and distance for passengers. The project brought together 40,000 workers, 
engineers, and architects. Its full capacity allows for 620,000 flight operations a 
year and up to 100 million passengers. OPPO Research and Development 
Center in Changan – China This is a striking example of 
a modern corporate megaproject. Thousands of specialists from this 
major tech company are developing   the technologies that will soon appear 
in smartphones and various smart devices. The building’s design takes inspiration 
from a lotus flower, a symbol of purity and growth in Chinese culture.
Raffles City Chongqing – China This complex includes eight towers, 
four of which serve as the foundation   for a one-of-a-kind architectural element.
That feature is “The Crystal,” a horizontal skyscraper weighing 12,000 tons that 
literally rests on top of other buildings. Inside this massive tube, a glass-floored 
observatory offers stunning views of the dramatic junction between the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.
Atuleer Ladders – China These stairs are built into an 800-meter, 
or 2,624-foot cliff in Sichuan Province. They connect the remote village 
of Atuleer to the valley below,   giving residents a safe way to 
travel up and down the mountainside. Local authorities decided to build them 
in 2016 after realizing the dangerous paths children were using to get to school.
Construction workers faced the challenge of building in steep, vertical zones without 
roads or heavy machinery to assist them. Atuleer sits high atop the 
cliffs, right on the edge. In ancient times, the villagers used the mountains 
as natural defenses against enemies and raiders. They also made use of the fertile terraced land, 
ideal for growing corn, potatoes, and other crops. Taklamakan Desert Highway – China
Feared by travelers, this is the largest sand desert in China—often called 
the land from which no one returns. The stunning Taklamakan Highway stretches 550 
kilometers, or nearly 342 miles, cutting straight across the desert from one end to the other.
Building it was a technical feat, carried out amid sandstorms and under a 
relentless, punishing climate. Blinding storms often slash visibility, 
making driving a high-risk activity. Nicknamed the Green Great Wall, the highway is 
bordered by a belt of desert-adapted plants. This living barrier is a clever 
way to stop the shifting dunes and stabilize the terrain around the road.
Palm Jumeirah – United Arab Emirates Off the coast of Dubai lies this 
palm-shaped man-made island. It features a central trunk, 16 fronds, 
and a crescent-shaped breakwater. The breakwater is a massive 11-kilometer,   or 6.8-mile, structure that shields 
the island from waves and sea currents. A monorail—the first built over open water in the   region—connects the island’s base to 
Atlantis Hotel, reducing car traffic. On the fronds, luxury residences offer 
direct access to private beaches, making Palm Jumeirah one of the most 
expensive real estate destinations on Earth. The World Islands – United Arab Emirates
Built in the open sea off Dubai, this artificial archipelago is one of the 
country’s largest investment projects. Roughly 300 islands are arranged in the shape 
of continents and countries, designed to host ultra-luxury experiences only 
accessible by sea or air. To create it, engineers reclaimed land 
from the sea by dredging enormous amounts of sand from the floor of the Persian Gulf.
A massive coastal engineering effort produced a breakwater made of 34 million tons of rock 
to protect the archipelago from powerful waves. Hon Thom Cable Car – Vietnam
Holding the title of the world’s longest cable car, it connects the islands 
of Phu Quoc and Hon Thom over nearly 8 kilometers, or 5 miles, of aerial travel.
The system is supported by six colossal towers, each as tall as a 50-story building.
It uses technology similar to Swiss cable cars, specially adapted for the tropical and 
marine conditions of Southeast Asia. Corinth Canal – Greece
This narrow man-made canal links the Ionian Sea with the Aegean, significantly shortening 
the route between both sides of the country. Roman Emperor Nero began the project in the 1st 
century, but it was left unfinished. Centuries later, between 1881 and 1893, French and 
Hungarian engineers completed the work. At just 8 meters, or 26 feet wide, and bordered 
by walls that rise up to 80 meters, or 262 feet, the canal can only accommodate 
small boats and tourist vessels. Bailong Elevator – China
Located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, it is the tallest outdoor elevator 
on Earth, capable of moving 4,000 people per hour. Rising 326 meters, or nearly 1,070 
feet, along the face of a cliff, it carries visitors from the valley 
floor to the mountain platforms above. Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge – China
With its transparent floor and suspension over the Grand Canyon of Zhangjiajie, 
this bridge is a breathtaking engineering feat. It blends cutting-edge design with a thrilling 
tourism experience, offering spectacular views of the canyon 300 meters, or 984 feet, below.
Extensive testing confirmed the glass panels could support up to 800 people at once 
and that the structure could withstand the canyon’s intense winds.
Guanyin of Nanshan – China This majestic statue honors Guanyin, the 
Buddhist deity symbolizing compassion. Partially built over the sea, it stands on 
a platform connected to the mainland by a bridge—requiring complex marine foundations.
At 108 meters, or 354 feet tall, it ranks among the tallest statues in the world and 
commemorates 2,000 years of Buddhism in China. Hoover Dam – United States
Built on the Colorado River at the border of Nevada and Arizona, this massive dam is renowned 
for both its scale and historical importance. Standing 221 meters, or 725 feet tall, and 
stretching 379 meters, or 1,243 feet long, it was the largest concrete structure of its time.
Its 17 turbines generate up to 2,000 megawatts of power, supplying electricity to 
Nevada, Arizona, and California. In addition to controlling the river’s flow,   it created Lake Mead—one of the 
largest artificial reservoirs on Earth. Downstream, a concrete and steel bridge spans the 
Colorado River. It was built to reduce traffic congestion that for decades crossed directly 
over the dam via Route 93, posing safety risks. SoFi Stadium – United States
Located in Inglewood, California, this massive venue is both a sports 
arena and entertainment complex. No other stadium in history has come close to 
its construction cost, which exceeded $5 billion. Although it features a permanent 
roof, it’s classified as an open-air   facility because its sides remain uncovered.
At its core is The Oculus—a one-of-a-kind, 1,000-ton video ring that’s actually 
larger than the playing field below it. Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge – China
This is the longest sea-crossing bridge in the world, stretching 55 kilometers, or 34 miles.
Its immense scale and offshore location make it one of the few modern 
structures visible from space. Engineered to last a century, it’s built to 
withstand extreme events such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and powerful Pacific typhoons.
The structure combines viaducts, a major undersea tunnel, and port facilities 
into a single integrated system. To link the land and underwater segments, 
engineers constructed two artificial islands equipped with logistics centers.
Duge Bridge – China Soaring to a height of 565 meters, or 1,853 feet, 
and spanning 1.3 kilometers, or nearly a mile, this bridge ranks among the tallest in the world.
Its construction came with major challenges: rugged mountain terrain, dense fog, 
high winds, and difficult site access. The bridge was built to withstand 
earthquakes and severe weather,   with a projected lifespan of at least 100 years. Qingdao Bay Bridge – China
Spanning Jiaozhou Bay, this colossal sea viaduct connects the 
city of Qingdao with the Huangdao district. For years, it held the title of 
the world’s longest sea bridge,   with a total length of 27 
kilometers, or 16.7 miles. Its construction required 450,000 tons of steel 
and was engineered to endure constant wave impact, high winds, and heavy traffic.
With deep foundation piles, the bridge is also capable of withstanding powerful 
earthquakes—common along China’s eastern coast. Shanghai Maglev – China
A pioneer in high-speed magnetic levitation, this train travels without 
touching the track, reducing both noise and wear. It connects Pudong Airport with Longyang Road 
Station in just 7 minutes, reaching speeds of 431 kilometers, or 267.8 miles per hour.
The project relied on experimental technology and marked a major 
investment in infrastructure,   innovation, and technical expertise.
Svalbard Global Seed Vault – Norway This underground facility was created to 
safeguard backup seeds of vital global crops. It represents a collaboration between 
nations, built with advanced technology designed to endure for thousands of years.
Dubai Frame – United Arab Emirates Monumental in scale, this 
picture-frame-shaped building   was designed as a visual gateway 
between historic and modern Dubai. It supports the city’s goal of becoming 
a global leader in urban design. Beyond its iconic form, it’s also 
functional—housing panoramic elevators and exhibition spaces within its columns. Delta Works – Netherlands
With much of its land below sea level, the Netherlands has developed exceptional 
expertise in reclaiming land from the sea. The Delta Plan is the world’s 
largest flood protection system,   built in response to the catastrophic 1953 flood.
Its aim was to seal river mouths and reinforce dikes, preventing the North 
Sea from pushing inland again. Dutch engineers invented entirely new 
techniques, including giant submersible gates and floating artificial islands.
Falkirk Wheel – United Kingdom This is a rotating boat lift—the 
only one of its kind in the world. It reconnects two canals that 
remained separated for 70 years,   reviving a 19th-century water route in Scotland. The design relies on Archimedes’ principle: the 
arms stay balanced because the weight of the boats equals the weight of the water displaced.
Émosson Dam – Switzerland Located in the Swiss Alps near the French 
border, this is a monumental feat of engineering, standing 180 meters, or about 591 feet tall.
It forms part of a complex hydroelectric system that includes underground tunnels, cascading 
power stations, and interconnected reservoirs. The structure was completed under harsh alpine 
conditions—snow, avalanche risks, and aerial logistics using helicopters and cable cars.
Beijing–Hangzhou Grand Canal – China This is the longest man-made canal in the world, 
stretching 1,700 kilometers, or 1,056 miles, from Beijing in the north to Hangzhou in the south.
Construction began 2,500 years ago, with expansions and upgrades 
carried out by multiple dynasties. During the Sui era, nearly 5 million 
people worked to bring it to life. For centuries, it carried grain, rice, and 
taxes from the south to the northern capitals, and later to Beijing, helping 
sustain the city’s operations. South–North Water Transfer Project – China Conceived in the 1950s, this hydraulic project 
has no equal in scale throughout human history. Its total length reaches 2,700 kilometers,   or 1,677 miles, including tunnels, pumping 
stations, reservoirs, and aqueducts. The system transports massive volumes of water 
from China’s wet southern regions to the dry, heavily populated north, supplying 
cities like Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. It required decades of planning 
and the labor of millions,   resulting in a human-engineered reshaping of 
the hydrological cycle on a continental scale. Panama Canal
This artificial waterway connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific, stretching 82 kilometers, 
or 50.9 miles, across the Isthmus of Panama. It allows ships to travel between oceans 
without having to sail around South America, cutting transit time by nearly two weeks.
Using gates and valves, the canal channels water from Gatun Lake to operate its locks—without 
relying on motors or pumping systems. “Mules,” or rail-guided vehicles, help steer 
and stabilize large ships during their passage. A typical crossing takes 8 to 10 hours, 
though that time can increase during droughts or when traffic is heavy.
Gardens by the Bay – Singapore Set along Marina Bay in central Singapore, this 
is an eco-megastructure with a futuristic design. Its signature features are the Supertrees—tall, 
vertical structures that resemble towering trees. These function as bioclimatic 
towers: some collect rainwater, others hold solar panels, and all are covered 
with lush plants, creating vertical ecosystems. Inside the complex is the Cloud Forest greenhouse,   where an artificial mountain and 
waterfall recreate the landscapes of Southeast Asia’s highlands.
Ba Na Hills – Vietnam This is a major tourism megaproject nestled 
in the central mountains of Vietnam. The entire complex was built atop a mountain 
ridge, demanding intricate transport logistics, advanced engineering, and 
high-altitude sustainability. Originally established in 1919 
as a French colonial resort, it was completely redeveloped starting in 2007 
into a world-class theme and tourist destination. The site features the iconic Golden Bridge, 
held aloft by two massive stone hands, symbolizing the link between earth and sky.
Burj Al Arab – United Arab Emirates This ultra-luxury hotel in Dubai brands 
itself as the world’s only 7-star hotel, though its official rating is 5 stars. It stands on a man-made island created using 
dredged sand, protected by a concrete barrier. The structure includes a helipad, which has 
been turned into an event space and used for high-profile sports exhibitions.
Itaipu Dam – Paraguay and Brazil Located on the Paraná River along the border 
between Paraguay and Brazil, this hydroelectric power plant stretches 7 kilometers, or 4.3 
miles, and stands 196 meters, or 643 feet tall. For many years, it was the world’s largest 
electricity producer, supplying nearly 90% of Paraguay’s power and about 15% of Brazil’s.
It became the largest concrete construction of its time, used extensively in 
the dam, canals, and tunnels. Channel Tunnel – France and United Kingdom
This system of three underwater rail tunnels connects England and France 
beneath the English Channel. Construction began in 1988 using 
eleven massive tunnel-boring machines, each 250 meters, or 820 feet long.
All kinds of vehicles travel aboard a special train that passes 
through the underwater tunnel. Thanks to this megaproject, travel between London 
and Paris now takes just 2 hours and 15 minutes, revolutionizing tourism and creating 
a cultural and economic bridge. Fuxing – China
Part of the world’s largest high-speed rail network, this system stretches 
45,000 kilometers, or 27,961 miles, across China. Fuxing is the first high-speed 
train entirely developed by China, from design to control systems, marking 
a departure from foreign licenses. Some models are built to operate in Arctic cold,   while others perform reliably in scorching desert 
conditions—all while maintaining speed and safety. Marina Bay Sands – Singapore
Overlooking Singapore’s bay, this luxury hotel and entertainment complex features three towers topped 
by a boat-shaped platform known as the SkyPark. The project cost $5.5 billion, making it the 
most expensive standalone casino ever built. The complex includes a 2,500-room 
hotel, rooftop infinity pool, gardens, casino, shopping mall, theaters, 
museum, and convention center. Aqueduct of Segovia – Spain
Two thousand years ago, Roman engineers constructed 
this monumental structure. It carried drinking water from 17 
kilometers, or nearly 11 miles away, and distributed it to fountains, public 
baths, homes, and agricultural areas. In the Middle Ages, its near-perfect 
design was attributed to the devil.   Around 24,000 stone blocks were used, 
each carved with astounding precision. The Line – Saudi Arabia
Envisioned as a futuristic megacity, The Line spans 170 kilometers, or nearly 106 
miles, stands 500 meters, or 1,640 feet tall, and is 200 meters, or 656 feet wide. 
It’s designed to house 9 million people. It forms part of the NEOM project, a key Saudi 
government initiative to diversify the economy. The result will be a city 
in the form of a wall—the   longest and narrowest urban structure in history. Great Pyramid of Giza – Egypt
The largest of the three pyramids in the Giza necropolis, it was the tallest man-made structure 
in the world for nearly four thousand years. It is the only one of the Seven Wonders 
of the Ancient World still standing. Estimates suggest it took 20 to 30 
years to build and required around   2 million stone blocks, each 
weighing between 2 and 15 tons. The stones were aligned 
with extraordinary accuracy,   using simple tools and advanced 
knowledge of astronomy and mathematics. Recently, the ScanPyramids project discovered a 
massive void inside, now known as the “Big Void.” Great Wall of China – China
Built to defend the Chinese empire, it stretches across dramatic landscapes—from 
mountain ridges to desert dunes—totaling nearly 21,000 kilometers, or about 13,049 miles.
Construction spanned roughly 2,000 years, with most stones carried by 
hand or with animals. Around   10 million people contributed to its creation.
Mountainous terrain posed a major challenge, with sections having to be carved 
creatively into the landscape. Watchtowers were used for surveillance 
and long-distance communication,   sending smoke and fire signals that 
could travel for miles in just minutes. Leshan Giant Buddha – China
Carved directly into a mountainside, this towering figure gazes calmly over 
the confluence of three rivers in Sichuan. At 71 meters, or nearly 233 feet tall, it is 
the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. It was built to protect 
sailors from turbulent waters. The head impacts, at 15 meters, or 49 feet tall.
Each leg measures 20 meters, about 66 feet, both collected in a meditation position.
Pont du Gard Aqueduct – France Built across three tiers, this Roman 
aqueduct once carried water to the   ancient city of Nemausus, now known as Nîmes.
Standing 49 meters, or about 161 feet tall, and stretching 275 meters, or 902 feet long, it 
remains the tallest surviving Roman aqueduct—still standing after centuries of wars and reuse.
As early as the 18th century, it became a tourist attraction, inspiring artists and travelers 
who saw it as a marvel of the ancient world. During the Middle Ages, it was repurposed as a 
pedestrian and cart bridge, with an improvised path added across the second level.
Yangshan Stele – China This is the largest stone carving 
project ever attempted by humankind. It was initiated in the Yangshan 
Quarry, a massive stone extraction   site near Nanjing, in Jiangsu Province.
In 1405, under the rule of Emperor Yongle, the plan was to move the stele to Nanjing—then the 
imperial capital—as a tribute to Emperor Hongwu. Weighing 16,000 tons and standing 16 meters, 
or 52 feet tall, the stele was carved but never detached from the bedrock after it became 
clear that transporting it was impossible. Karnak Temple – Egypt
Not just a single temple, this massive complex includes sanctuaries, obelisks, courtyards, and 
ceremonial halls, built over two thousand years. It connects to the Luxor Temple via the Avenue 
of Sphinxes and was dedicated to Amun-Ra, the supreme god and protector of the pharaohs. At least 30 pharaohs contributed to 
its construction, moving millions of   stone blocks and leaving their mark 
through inscriptions and reliefs. The project required the collaboration of 
architects, priests, sculptors, and scribes. It served as the spiritual heart of Ancient 
Egypt and the theological center of its empire. Obelisks, such as the one honoring 
Hatshepsut, were carved from single stone blocks and transported from Aswan, 
200 kilometers, or 124.2 miles away. Inside the sanctuary of Amun-Ra, 
stone columns rise among the tallest   ever built—reaching heights of 
21 meters, or nearly 69 feet. It remains a mystery how they were 
finished with such precision and symmetry,   though many believe they were assembled 
using stacked cylindrical stone segments. Port of Shanghai – China Recognized as the largest container 
port in the world, it lies at the   mouth of the Yangtze River and connects 
China to hundreds of global sea routes. It was built in open waters by linking and 
expanding islands through land reclamation, requiring precise coastal engineering capable 
of withstanding harsh marine conditions. Dikes and massive cranes were used to create 
docks that can support container mega-ships. Each year, the port is hit by up to three 
severe typhoons. Its infrastructure is designed to endure wind gusts exceeding 
200 kilometers, or 124.2 miles per hour. Tuoketuo Thermal Power Plant – China This is the largest thermal 
power station on Earth,   playing a vital role in supplying electricity 
to industrial and urban areas in northern China. It generates 7,000 megawatts, 
distributed across 12 generating units—enough to power tens of millions of people.
The complex includes its own railway system, coal storage facilities, cooling towers, 
and high-voltage distribution networks. Slanic Salt Mine – Romania
A massive mining complex and part of the Carpathian salt deposit system.
Among its operations, the Unirea Mine stands out—a 20th-century underground salt 
cathedral with colossal hand-dug chambers. Millions of tons of salt were 
extracted. Each chamber averages   a height of 54 meters, or 177 feet.
Morning Glory Spillway – United States Known as the largest water drain in the world,   it’s located at Lake Berryessa, which 
was formed by the Monticello Dam. The spillway helps regulate the reservoir’s 
water level. As one of the few operational   plunge-type spillways, it required 
highly precise geotechnical design. It remained dry for years 
during California’s drought,   but when active, it looks like a 
massive portal swallowing the lake. Ain Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Also called the Dubai Eye, it is the tallest observation wheel on the 
planet, reaching 250 meters, or 820 feet high. Its construction required the development 
of specially designed cranes capable of   lifting components weighing up to 500 tons.
Just one of the 192 spokes in its central hub weighs around 5 tons—heavier 
than many commercial airplanes. Skytrain – Thailand
Elevated above the traffic-choked streets of Thailand’s capital, this rail system has 
transformed transportation across Southeast Asia. It launched in 1999 as a solution to the city’s 
chaotic traffic and has since become a daily lifeline for millions of Thais and tourists.
Built above major roads, it avoids street congestion and eliminates 
the need for costly tunnels. San Alfonso del Mar – Chile
Located within a beachside resort, this destination is home to the 
second-largest swimming pool in the world, after Citystars Sharm El Sheikh.
Amazingly, it stretches 1 kilometer, or 0.62 miles in length, allowing 
for water sports like sailing. The pool is filled with water pumped in from the 
Pacific Ocean, treated to remain crystal clear without requiring complete drainage.
Eiffel Tower – France Standing on the Champ de Mars along the banks 
of the Seine in Paris, this iron monument rises 330 meters, or nearly 1,083 feet tall.
It was built for the 1889 World’s Fair, marking the centennial of the French Revolution, 
and was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel. Three hundred workers assembled 
it using construction techniques   that were considered remarkably 
safe and precise for the era. It remained the tallest building 
in the world until 1930. At first, some French intellectuals criticized it 
as a monstrous eyesore looming over Paris. The tower has 1,665 steps leading to 
the top, though visitors typically walk only as far as the second level.
It’s equipped with both hydraulic and electric elevators that travel diagonally and vertically, 
connecting the ground to its three main platforms. Petronas Towers – Malaysia
These twin skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur stand 452 meters, or nearly 1,483 feet 
tall, with 88 floors. They held the title of tallest buildings in the world from 1998 to 2004.
Construction began in 1992 and was completed in 1998, establishing the towers as the headquarters 
of Petronas, Malaysia’s national oil company. Instead of steel, high-strength 
reinforced concrete was used—a solution   better suited to the local climate and economy.
Linking the towers is a skybridge, suspended 170 meters, or about 558 feet, above the ground.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – United Kingdom This is the tallest navigable aqueduct in 
existence, stretching 307 meters, or 1,007 feet long, and standing 38 meters, or 124.6 
feet high, carrying boats over the River Dee. Built between 1795 and 1805 
during the Industrial Revolution, it marked a breakthrough in canal engineering by 
combining elevation, length, and functionality. It was used to transport coal, stone, and 
other goods from mines to ports—and today, it’s still in use for recreational boating.
Spring Temple Buddha – China Including its pedestal and stepped base, this 
statue reaches a total height of 209 meters, or 685.6 feet, making it the 
second-tallest statue in the world. If it were a building, it would be the 
equivalent of a 60-story skyscraper. The figure represents Vairocana Buddha, 
a central deity in Mahāyāna Buddhism. St. Peter’s Basilica – Vatican City
The largest Catholic Church in the world, this basilica is considered the 
spiritual heart of Catholicism. Its construction spanned 120 years and involved 
several popes, architects, and artistic movements. Resources were drawn from across Europe—marble,   gold, sculptors, engineers, 
artists, theologians, and laborers. It brings together the finest of Renaissance and 
Baroque art in a masterful fusion of architecture, sculpture, and painting.
Abu Simbel – Egypt This historic site consists of two monumental 
temples built nearly 3,300 years ago. At the entrance to the main temple stand 
four colossal statues of Pharaoh Ramses II. Its grandeur was meant to emphasize 
the divine nature of the king’s rule. The smaller temple is dedicated to 
Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. Angkor Wat – Cambodia
This is the largest religious temple ever built, originally 
dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and later adapted for Buddhist worship.
Part of the Angkor complex, the former capital of the Khmer Empire, it is surrounded 
by dense jungle, canals, and a man-made moat. It belonged to a sacred megacity of one 
million people, which depended on massive hydraulic projects like reservoirs and dams.
For centuries, Angkor’s temples were reclaimed by tropical vegetation until they were rediscovered 
by French explorer Henri Mouhot in 1860. Bosco Verticale – Italy
These two eco-friendly residential towers form a bold architectural 
statement in Milan’s Porta Nuova district. Hundreds of trees and thousands 
of plants were placed along the   facades and terraces. An automated system 
irrigates them using recycled greywater. The greenery generates oxygen 
and reduces carbon dioxide,   improving air quality for residents 
and the surrounding neighborhood. Suez Canal – Egypt
This 193-kilometer, or nearly 120-mile, waterway links the 
Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, allowing ships to bypass the 
long route around Africa. Between 1859 and 1869, around 1.5 million 
workers contributed to its construction, many enduring extremely harsh conditions.
It was a 19th-century engineering marvel, overcoming challenges like desert terrain, a 
lack of modern machinery, and widespread disease. Canal operators manage vessel traffic in 
coordinated convoys, as both seas are nearly at the same level—making locks unnecessary.
City of Arts and Sciences – Spain Regarded as one of the world’s most technically 
advanced and visually striking auditoriums. The structure sits on an elevated 
platform surrounded by water,   giving the impression it’s floating. Its 
metallic roof resembles a ship’s hull, blending seamlessly with its aquatic surroundings.
The main concert hall features sound quality designed with absolute precision. Its 
acoustics rank among the best worldwide for operatic performances.
Oriental Pearl Tower – China Located in Shanghai, this tower reaches 
a height of 468 meters, or 1,535 feet, and was the tallest structure in 
mainland China for many years.  It consists of 11 spheres, with the lower, 
middle, and upper ones being the most prominent. The tower is used for television, 
radio, and telecommunications signals. At night, it changes colors and 
puts on dazzling light shows,   serving as a luminous landmark 
visible across much of the city. Baalbek – Lebanon
This archaeological site dates back to Roman times, though its 
origins lie in a Phoenician settlement and ceremonial center from around 4,000 years ago.
Colossal stone blocks—some weighing up to 1,600 tons—were used, possibly 
predating the Roman Empire. These massive stones were never moved, likely 
due to the impossibility of transporting them. Of the Temple of Jupiter, only six columns remain, 
each standing 20 meters, or 65.6 feet tall—larger in scale than those of the Parthenon in Athens.
Next to it, the Temple of Bacchus is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the 
world, with parts of its roof still intact. Veluwemeer Aqueduct – Netherlands
This ingenious example of reverse engineering allows a road to pass beneath a canal.
It was inaugurated in 2002 as part of a broader transportation infrastructure project 
combining road and water traffic. To ensure stability, the structure 
was tightly sealed and precisely   engineered to support the 
weight of the water above. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum 
Solar Park – United Arab Emirates One of the largest solar energy projects on the 
planet, this park lies in the desert near Dubai. It plays a central role in 
Dubai’s 2050 Energy Strategy,   which aims to produce 100% of the 
country’s power from clean sources. The site features the world’s tallest solar 
power tower, rising 260 meters, or 853 feet, which uses thousands of heliostats to concentrate 
sunlight for steam and electricity generation. Karakoram Highway – Pakistan
Engineers carved this route through the Karakoram mountain range to link Pakistan with China.
Known as the “eighth wonder of the world,” it’s celebrated for its extreme technical 
challenges and dramatic surroundings. Construction began in 1959 under the governments 
of Pakistan and China, was completed in 1979, and opened to the public in 1986.
Around 24,000 engineers and workers labored in harsh high-altitude 
conditions, braving avalanches,   landslides, earthquakes, and shifting glaciers.
One World Trade Center – United States Rising to 541 meters, or 1,776 feet, this 
skyscraper stands at the heart of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in New York City.
Construction began in 2006 and was completed in 2013, serving as both a replacement for the 
Twin Towers and a tribute to the victims of 9/11. Its precise height—1,776 feet—carries symbolic 
weight, honoring the year the United States Declaration of Independence was signed.
Saqsaywaman – Peru Though often referred to as a fortress, 
this Inca site also served ceremonial, religious, and astronomical purposes.
Its zigzagging walls symbolize the fangs of a puma, but they also serve a 
structural function—designed to   absorb seismic vibrations without collapsing.
Giant stones, some weighing up to 120 tons, were fitted together so precisely 
that barely a gap exists between them. The carving process used 
simple yet effective methods:   stone tools and abrasive sand were employed 
until each block aligned perfectly in place. Stones were transported using sledges, ramps, 
and sheer human effort, as the Incas did not use the wheel or pack animals.
Hudson Yards – United States Built on Manhattan’s west side 
over the former Hudson rail yards,   this development is one of the largest 
real estate projects in U.S. history. It transformed an underutilized industrial 
area into a new hub of luxury and business. The district features intelligent 
systems for environmental monitoring,   energy management, lighting, pedestrian 
flow, and real-time climate control. One of its highlights is The Vessel, a 
spiral-shaped architectural sculpture often called the “stairway to the sky.”
It consists of 154 flights of stairs, 80 landings, and 2,500 steps, all interconnected 
in a unique, climbable structure. Millau Viaduct – France
At the time of its completion, this was the most ambitious technical and 
creative challenge faced by French engineers   and architects since the Normandy Bridge.
The top of its tallest mast reaches 343 meters, or 1,125 feet—taller than many skyscrapers.
Designed by Norman Foster, it emphasizes aesthetics with clean lines, slender pylons, 
and an overall feeling of weightlessness. Billionaires’ Row – United States
Located just south of Central Park in Manhattan, this cluster of ultra-luxury 
supertowers redefines vertical living. These ultra-slender skyscrapers stand far 
taller than they are wide, built with advanced technology to withstand extreme winds.
Among them is Central Park Tower, the tallest residential skyscraper in the world, 
where penthouses have sold for over $100 million. The O2 – United Kingdom
This is one of the world’s largest entertainment venues, housed under a giant circular roof.
Supported by 12 masts that symbolize the months of the year and hours on a clock, the structure 
pays homage to the nearby Greenwich Meridian. Inside lies a complex filled with sports 
arenas, concert halls, cinemas, shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
International Space Station Orbiting Earth at roughly 400 kilometers, or 249 
miles above the surface, this habitable space lab is a landmark of global cooperation, led by five 
agencies: NASA, Roscosmos, ESA, JAXA, and CSA. Its mission is to advance science, refine 
space technologies, and lay the groundwork for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Continuously inhabited since 2000, the ISS was assembled in orbit through 
dozens of launches beginning in 1998. It completes an orbit around 
the planet every 90 minutes,   meaning astronauts onboard witness 16 
sunrises and 16 sunsets every Earth day. Vasco da Gama Bridge – Portugal
Spanning the Tagus River estuary in Lisbon, this bridge stretches 12.3 kilometers, or 7.6 
miles, making it the longest in Western Europe. Inaugurated in 1998, it symbolized 
a modern connection between Europe   and the wider world—just as the explorer 
Vasco da Gama did five centuries earlier. It was engineered with seismic 
isolators that allow it to flex   during earthquakes without collapsing, 
withstanding tremors up to 8.5 magnitude. Despite its scale, the project was 
completed in just 36 months thanks   to intensive prefabrication, modular segmentation, and round-the-clock construction shifts.
Large Hadron Collider – Switzerland and France This underground circular particle accelerator 
stretches beneath the Swiss-French border. Its goal is to smash protons or heavy 
nuclei together at extreme speeds to simulate conditions just after the Big Bang. No other scientific facility matches its 
scale: it cost $10 billion, took a decade to build, and involved components 
manufactured in dozens of countries. Shanghai World Financial Center – China
Known for its distinctive trapezoidal opening at the top, it’s often nicknamed “the bottle opener.”
Designed as a global financial hub, it houses office spaces, luxury 
hotels, and shopping centers. The massive cutout near the summit isn’t just 
for looks—it reduces wind pressure and improves structural stability.
Jin Mao Tower – China Located next to the Shanghai World Financial 
Center, this tower held the title of China’s   tallest building for years, standing 420 
meters, or 1,378 feet tall with 88 floors. Its shape narrows in thirteen 
stages toward the top,   evoking the silhouette of a traditional pagoda.
Construction marked China’s entry into the age of supertowers, with 6,000 workers, engineers from 
10 countries, and hundreds of companies involved. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – United States
At 38 kilometers, or 23.6 miles long, it held the record for the world’s longest 
continuous bridge over water for many years. While driving across the central stretch, 
the road seems to vanish into the horizon, causing occasional disorientation 
and anxiety for some drivers. Although it sits low above the water, 
it has withstood hurricanes like Katrina   thanks to its flexible design 
and deeply anchored foundations. Ryugyong Hotel – North Korea
With its towering pyramid shape, this controversial project 
dominates the skyline of Pyongyang. Rising 105 stories and reaching 330 meters,   or 1,083 feet, it ranks among the 
tallest hotel structures in the world. Construction began in 1987 with plans for 
3,000 rooms and five revolving restaurants, but the project has been stalled for decades.
Grand Lisboa Hotel – China Located in the heart of Macau, this 
luxury resort and casino has become   an icon of the global gaming industry.
Its design resembles a golden lotus flower—a symbol of purity and spiritual 
ascent in both Buddhism and Taoism. Macau surpasses Las Vegas in gaming revenue, 
and the Grand Lisboa represents the epicenter of that financial power.
Venetian Macao – China The world’s largest casino, located in Macau, 
a special administrative region of China. Modeled after the city of Venice, it features 
navigable indoor canals, Renaissance-style architecture, and replicas of Venetian landmarks.
Built on reclaimed land, it required deep foundations and stabilization 
techniques to ensure structural safety. Empire State Building – United States
Completed in 1931 at a height of 381 meters, or 1,250 feet, it held the title of the tallest 
building in the world for nearly 40 years. Construction began during the economic crisis 
of 1930 and was finished in just 410 days, though it struggled to find tenants early on.
In 1933, it gained international fame when King Kong climbed its facade—a moment that 
cemented its place in film history. It has since appeared in hundreds of productions.
Chrysler Building – United States For a brief period in 1930, it was 
the tallest building on Earth—until the Empire State Building claimed that title.
Originally built as the headquarters for the Chrysler Corporation, it was also meant 
to symbolize American industrial pride. Many architects consider it the finest example 
of Art Deco architecture ever constructed. Trans-Alaska Pipeline – United States
Stretching 1,300 kilometers, or 807.7 miles, from northern Alaska to 
the southern port of Valdez,   this pipeline ranks among 
the longest in the world. Built between 1974 and 1977, it was driven by the 
discovery of vast oil reserves in Prudhoe Bay. The pipeline crosses three mountain ranges, 
hundreds of rivers, and seismic zones, and features technology to keep the oil 
flowing hot through extreme conditions. Boguchany Hydroelectric Power Station – Russia
Nestled along the remote Angara River, this colossal hydroengineering structure plays 
a key strategic role in the heart of Siberia. It’s part of the Angara dam 
system, which also includes   the massive Bratsk and Irkutsk power stations.
A road runs across the top of the structure, used both for maintenance operations 
and as a route for local residents. Gotthard Base Tunnel – Switzerland
Stretching 57 kilometers, or 35 miles, beneath the Swiss Alps from north to south, this 
is the longest railway tunnel on the planet. It stands as one of the greatest 
feats of modern civil engineering,   designed to boost rail connectivity 
between Northern and Southern Europe. At extreme depths, rock temperatures rise above 
45 degrees Centigrade, or 113 degrees Fahrenheit, requiring the installation of advanced 
ventilation and cooling systems. Jiangsu Grand Theatre – China
Located in Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu province, this majestic cultural 
complex has become a city landmark. Each of its four main auditoriums is housed 
in a separate, petal-shaped structure. Drax Power Station – United Kingdom
This facility stands out for having more cooling towers than any other power plant in the world.
There are 12 towers, each standing 114 meters, or 374 feet tall, designed to cool 
the hot water used in the plant. Launched in 1974 with coal as its primary 
fuel, the station has since been converted to run almost entirely on biomass.
Mooserboden Reservoir – Austria This artificial Alpine lake was created 
by the monumental Mooserboden Dam, one of the tallest in all of Europe.
It resembles a fjord, set between peaks soaring to 3,000 meters, or 9,843 feet, 
on the edge of Hohe Tauern National Park. James Webb Space Telescope
Regarded as the most sophisticated space telescope ever built, it can observe the universe all the 
way back to the moments just after the Big Bang. Developed by NASA in collaboration with the 
ESA and CSA, it sits 1.5 million kilometers, or 932,056 miles from Earth. Its 
deployment involved fifty critical steps, each with zero margin for error.
Its primary mirror—the largest ever launched into space—can detect thermal differences as 
subtle as the body heat of an insect on the Moon. Golden Gate Bridge – United States
Spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, this iconic bridge links the city 
of San Francisco with Marin County. When it opened in 1937, it held the world record 
for the longest suspension span—1,280 meters, or 4,200 feet—a title it kept 
for nearly three decades. The famous orange hue wasn’t originally planned. 
Workers applied it as a rust-preventive coating, but architects liked how it looked 
against the fog and decided to keep it. 30 St Mary Axe – United Kingdom Nicknamed “the Gherkin,” its 
aerodynamic shape mimics natural   spirals, such as those found in seashells.
It was London’s first eco-friendly skyscraper, engineered to use 50% less energy 
than a typical office building. The Shard – United Kingdom
Rising 310 meters or 1,017 feet into the London skyline, it has held the 
title of the tallest building in both the UK and Western Europe since 2012.
Conceived as a vertical city,   its design draws inspiration from church spires 
and the masts of ships navigating the Thames. Tokyo Tower – Japan
Built between 1957 and 1958, this ambitious project was intended to 
symbolize Japan’s postwar economic recovery. Reaching 333 meters or 1,093 feet, it was 
the tallest structure in the country until the Tokyo Skytree was completed in 2012.
From Godzilla to Sailor Moon and Your Name, its silhouette is ever-present in Japanese 
visual culture—almost like an extra character. Tokyo Skytree – Japan
Built for broadcasting, observation, and telecommunications, this towering 
structure rises to 634 meters or 2,080 feet, making it the tallest tower in Japan.
Its triangular base gradually transitions into a circular shape, enhancing 
stability and reducing wind resistance. At night, it lights up in two elegant shades: 
“Iki,” a sleek blue, and “Miyabi,” a refined purple—visual expressions of harmony 
between the modern and the traditional. Stonehenge – United Kingdom
One of prehistory’s most iconic megastructures, it consists of a ring of massive 
standing stones topped with horizontal lintels. Its construction predates the Great 
Pyramid of Giza by several centuries, placing it among the oldest 
man-made monuments on Earth. Some stones weigh up to 40 tons and were 
transported from about 30 kilometers or 19 miles away, likely using sleds and 
large, coordinated groups of people. Over a span of 1,500 years, the site 
underwent continuous transformation, suggesting that multiple civilizations 
honored its sacred importance. MahaNakhon – Thailand
Striking for its unique design, the tower appears to be sliced by a spiraling ribbon 
that breaks the façade into floating blocks. Standing at 314 meters or 1,030 feet, it held the 
title of Thailand’s tallest building until 2018. The recessed areas house balconies, gardens, and 
private terraces, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with sweeping views.
Kiel Canal – Germany This canal links the North Sea with the Baltic 
Sea, saving ships a detour of 460 kilometers (nearly 286 miles) around the Jutland Peninsula.
Construction began in 1887 and finished in 1895 after multiple expansions—a landmark 
achievement in European engineering. Initially built for the German military to move 
ships without circling Denmark, it eventually became a vital commercial route for Europe.
Göta Canal – Sweden An artificial waterway cutting across 
southern Sweden from east to west,   it connects the Baltic Sea to the North Sea.
At least 58,000 Swedish soldiers took part in its excavation between 1810 and 
1832, using hand tools and dynamite. The canal brought together once-isolated 
towns and regions—before its construction, much of the country’s interior 
remained disconnected. Øresund Bridge – Denmark
This monumental structure links the Danish capital with the Swedish 
city of Malmö, spanning the Øresund Strait. It’s the longest combined road and rail bridge in 
Europe, extending 16 kilometers, nearly 10 miles, through a combination of cable-stayed bridge, 
underwater tunnel, and man-made island. Turning Torso – Sweden
Located in Malmö, this twisted, contemporary-style skyscraper rises to 190 
meters or 623 feet and spans 54 stories, making it the tallest building in Scandinavia.
Designed to represent a human figure in rotation, it conveys a sense of movement and fluidity.
Each segment rotates slightly around a central axis, producing a spiraling effect that 
breaks away from conventional geometry. Willis Tower – United States
A defining feature of Chicago’s skyline, this architectural icon held the title of tallest 
building in the world for 25 years, reaching 527 meters or 1,729 feet including its antenna.
It was the first to use a stepped design as both a structural reinforcement 
and a striking visual element. The antenna serves broadcasting 
and telecommunications needs,   and also helped extend the building’s 
reign as the tallest for a longer period. Lusail – Qatar
Located near Doha, this master-planned city was envisioned as a 21st-century urban 
hub aimed at diversifying Qatar’s economy. Built to be smart, sustainable, and 
luxurious, Lusail is designed to   accommodate up to 250,000 residents.
Despite its futuristic outlook, its architecture draws on traditional Arab culture, 
featuring shaded squares, inner courtyards, and facades suited to the desert climate.
Yeongjong Grand Bridge – South Korea This major infrastructure project 
connects Incheon International Airport   to the mainland near the city of Incheon.
Combining roadways, railways, and a suspension section in a single structure, it ranks among the 
most complex engineering feats in South Korea. Kuwait Towers – Kuwait
These three towers, located along the Persian Gulf coast, embody 
Islamic cultural motifs in their design. Thousands of steel discs cover the spherical 
sections, painted in eight shades of blue, green, and gray to evoke the 
tiled domes of ancient mosques. The uppermost sphere houses a restaurant that 
rotates 360 degrees every half hour, offering sweeping views of the desert horizon.
Merdeka 118 – Malaysia Standing tall in Kuala Lumpur at 679 meters or 
2,228 feet, it’s the second-tallest building in the world after the Burj Khalifa.
Its asymmetrical form and shifting planes give it a different look from every angle, 
symbolizing Malaysia’s cultural diversity. The facade features 18,000 triangular 
glass panels, which create kaleidoscopic reflections that shift throughout the day.
Transamerica Pyramid – United States Located in San Francisco, its distinctive 
pyramid-shaped profile has made it an iconic piece of architectural design.
It remained the tallest building in the city until 2018. While it’s now a beloved 
landmark, its design initially faced criticism, with some calling it out of place.
Riyadh Metro – Saudi Arabia Currently under development in the capital city, 
this massive transportation network includes both underground and above-ground lines.
It’s the largest metro system ever constructed entirely from scratch at once, 
featuring six lines, 176 kilometers or 109 miles of tracks, and 85 stations.
The system blends modern Arab architectural elements with driverless train 
technology and standout station designs. Varso Tower – Poland
Rising 310 meters or 1,017 feet in the heart of Warsaw, this is the 
tallest skyscraper in the European Union. Located next to the city’s 
central train station, it improves   urban connectivity and revitalizes 
an area that was once underutilized. Aurelian Walls – Italy
Built by the Romans in the 3rd century, this defensive wall system was designed to 
shield the city from barbarian invasions. Construction began in 271 AD under 
Emperor Aurelian and was impressively completed just five years later, during 
a time of economic and military turmoil. The walls enclosed the entire city with 
a perimeter of around 19 kilometers, nearly 12 miles, and stood 8 meters or 26 feet 
high, fortified with towers and monumental gates. Walls of Constantinople – Turkey
These formidable fortifications protected the capital of the Eastern 
Roman Empire for over a thousand years. They withstood countless sieges by Huns, Persians, 
Arabs, Bulgars, Russians, and Crusaders, until the Ottoman artillery finally breached them in 1453.
Their triple-layered system—featuring towers, battlements, passageways, and traps—was 
widely copied but never surpassed. Qutub Minar – India
Standing at 72 meters or 236 feet, it is the tallest brick minaret in the world and 
one of the oldest Islamic monuments in India. Built in concentric cylindrical segments, 
it contains a spiral staircase of 379 steps winding upward through its core.
Its construction spanned several decades and required the efforts of 
multiple sultans, incorporating stone   repurposed from 27 Hindu temples.
Lotte World Tower – South Korea Soaring to 555 meters or 1,821 feet with 123 
floors, this is the tallest tower in South Korea. Its sleek silhouette is inspired 
by traditional Korean brushstrokes,   blending cultural refinement 
with aerodynamic efficiency. Meenakshi Amman Temple – India
This vast Hindu temple complex spans about 6 hectares or 15 acres, and 
features 14 gopurams, or gateway towers. Each tower is adorned with thousands 
of sculptures depicting gods, demons,   mythical creatures, celestial dancers, and sages.
Often described as a city within a temple, it hosts services and activities 
that support daily spiritual life. Putrajaya – Malaysia
This meticulously planned city was envisioned as the future 
administrative capital of Malaysia. Built on what was once rural land, 
it’s designed as a smart garden city,   integrating environmental control systems 
and advanced water management technologies. The layout is organized into themed zones, 
including areas for government, commerce, recreation, embassies, housing, and education.
Sayano–Shushenskaya Dam Spillway – Russia Located beside the main dam 
structure, this coastal spillway   is designed to redirect excess water.
It was carved directly into the Siberian rock surrounding the reservoir. When in 
use, water surges down at high speed, resembling a massive artificial waterfall.
Abraj Al-Bait Towers – Saudi Arabia Dominated by the iconic Makkah Clock Tower, 
this architectural complex stands across from the Holy Mosque, the spiritual center of Islam.
Reaching 601 meters or 1,972 feet, the main tower ranks among the tallest buildings in the world and 
features the largest clock face ever constructed. It was designed to accommodate millions of 
pilgrims and to establish a central Islamic   time reference, with a clock visible 
from 25 kilometers or 15.5 miles away. Akashi Kaikyō Bridge – Japan
The second-longest suspension bridge on Earth, it links the city of Kobe with Awaji 
Island, spanning the treacherous Akashi Strait. Its cables contain 300,000 kilometers or 
186,411 miles of steel wire—enough to circle the globe seven times if laid end to end.
Engineered to endure typhoons, tsunamis, and powerful earthquakes, it stands 
as a marvel of resilience and design. Sheikh Jaber Bridge – Kuwait
Stretching nearly 36 kilometers or 23 miles, this is the longest maritime bridge outside of China.
Due to its scale and location over international waters, it is equipped with radars, surveillance 
cameras, marine patrols, and seismic sensors. Midway through the crossing 
lies a man-made service island,   offering fuel stations, restrooms, 
security posts, and rest areas. Forest City – Malaysia
Built on reclaimed islands near the Singapore border, this master-planned luxury 
city was designed with sustainability in mind. Its layout separates vehicle traffic, 
pedestrian pathways, and green spaces   into distinct levels for optimized livability.
Buildings are draped in vegetation, with green roofs and vertical gardens that help regulate 
temperature and reduce environmental impact. Lake Kariba – Zambia and Zimbabwe
By both volume and surface area, this is the largest artificial lake in the world.
It was created in the 1950s following the construction of the Kariba Dam, 
which reshaped the local geography. As the lake filled, thousands of animals became 
stranded on temporary islands. In response, Operation Noah was launched, 
using boats to rescue them. Unfinished Obelisk of Aswan – Egypt  This ancient monument has revealed valuable 
insights into how the Egyptians quarried and transported colossal stone structures.
Had it been completed, it would have stood 42 meters or 138 feet tall 
and weighed 1,000 tons—making it the largest known obelisk ever attempted.
It was likely abandoned after a crack appeared in the stone, rendering it unusable. 
However, the reason for not repurposing the remaining sections remains unclear.
Some believe it was intended for Karnak Temple or another grand structure, but 
its original purpose is still debated. NASA Vehicle Assembly Building – United States
For decades, this facility has been the launch prep center for the most 
powerful rockets ever built. Originally designed to assemble Saturn V 
rockets for the Apollo missions, it remains active today as part of the Artemis program.
With an interior height of 160 meters or 525 feet and a length of 218 meters, or 715 feet, it ranks 
among the world’s largest buildings by volume. Starship – United States
Currently the most ambitious, powerful, and largest spacecraft ever constructed.
Standing nearly 120 meters or 394 feet tall, it’s designed to carry up to 100 people 
and was conceived from the start as a   vessel for interplanetary colonization.
During landings, it uses a colossal ground tower called Mechazilla to catch the 
rocket—an engineering feat in itself. Tropical Islands Resort – Germany
Located near Berlin, this massive water park, spa, and tropical-themed entertainment 
complex replicates a lush island paradise. Its footprint equals eight football 
fields, making it one of the largest   indoor attractions of its kind.
Housed inside a former aircraft hangar, the space is kept at a steady 26 degrees 
Centigrade, or 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. It features Europe’s largest indoor 
beach—200 meters or 656 feet long—with imported fine sand and a wave system 
for an immersive tropical experience. Sky Bridge 721 – Czech Republic At 721 meters or 2,366 feet long, this is the 
longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world. Modeled after the high-altitude 
bridges of the Himalayas,   its construction involved hundreds of experts in 
aerial transport and high-altitude engineering. Louvre Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Celebrated as the first universal museum in the Arab world, it stands on 
Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. Built on an artificial island, it forms 
part of Saadiyat’s cultural district, alongside future projects 
like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. The dome features layers of metal lattices with 
geometric patterns. As sunlight filters through, it creates a shifting play of 
light that mimics palm fronds. Ostankino Tower – Russia
Located in Moscow, this communications tower reaches 
540 meters or 1,772 feet and held the title of tallest structure 
in the world from 1967 to 1975. Its design is inspired by the shape of a lily, 
with open petal-like supports at the base that evenly distribute the weight.
Minaret of Jam – Afghanistan Rediscovered in 1957, this tower lies in 
a remote part of the country after being forgotten by the Western world for centuries.
It ranks as the second-tallest brick minaret globally, constructed by the Ghurid Empire—a 
once-sophisticated but little-known civilization. Kumbhalgarh Walls – India
Encircling the fortress of the same name, these walls were built by order 
of King Rana Kumbha in the mid-15th century. Stretching 36 kilometers or 22 miles, they are 
the second-longest continuous wall in the world. The Mewar kings used this stronghold as a refuge,   crucial for resisting the 
Mughals and northern sultanates. Hadrian’s Wall – United Kingdom
The Roman Empire built this defensive line to mark its northern boundary 
in Britannia and to deter tribal incursions. Constructed between 122 and 
128 AD under Emperor Hadrian, it spanned 117 kilometers, about 73 
miles, stood 5 meters or 16 feet tall, and featured towers at regular intervals.
Besides defending the frontier, it regulated movement and collected taxes—asserting 
Rome’s authority in a contested region. The structure was built by Roman soldiers 
who contended with rugged terrain, marshes, hills, and a constant need for supplies.
Lesotho Highlands Water Project – Lesotho This massive hydrological project was 
designed to channel water from Lesotho’s   highlands to South Africa through a 
network of dams and power stations. It has made Lesotho an exporter of water—a 
resource of rising strategic importance, especially within the African continent. AVE High-Speed Rail – Spain Spain’s AVE is Europe’s most 
expansive high-speed rail network. The project has involved public investment 
exceeding €50 billion and includes tunnels, viaducts, and cutting-edge trains.
Colosseum – Italy With its elliptical shape, advanced 
engineering, and colossal scale,   this ancient megastructure remains 
unrivaled in historical significance. Completed in 80 AD, it served as a propaganda 
tool, hosting gladiator combat, animal hunts, war reenactments, and even naval battles.
Beneath the arena, a network of elevators, passageways, and cages brought beasts to 
the surface via hidden pulley systems. From the dust of empires to 
the glow of metropolises,   humanity’s mega-constructions whisper 
that nothing is beyond reach. May this journey between the eternal and the modern 
stay etched in memory. Until next time!

Megaprojects that challenge the limits of engineering. Wonders built by human hands.