All built within the last 150 years, these stunning buildings around the world are monuments that will stand the test of time.
From the Taj Mahal and the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Empire State Building and the Eiffel Tower, architectural landmarks form some of travelers’ most indelible memories.
Indeed, buildings are endlessly intriguing: as aesthetic objects, reflections of their time, cultural artifacts, and emblems of human endeavor. As we explore works of architecture worthy of their own trip, we find ourselves focused less on iconic sites and more on structures of a more recent vintage.
List of Nine Modern Architectural Marvels
1. Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Architect: Louis Kahn
Year completed: 1972
The staggering collection of old masters contained within this small museum’s walls – including famous works by Caravaggio, Michelangelo, Velázquez, and Cézanne – is alone worth experiencing in Fort Worth. The austere and surprisingly moving building contains these masterpieces. With barrel vaults, porticos, and elegant landscaping, the structure takes inspiration from the architecture of ancient Rome. The result is an architectural masterpiece that recedes, hiding in plain sight.
2. Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Architect: Jørn Utzon
Year completed: 1973
The jewel of Sydney’s skyline, the Sydney Opera House enjoys a prime setting on a peninsula facing Sydney Harbor. The iconic structure consists of a series of eight sail-like roofs that were highly technical to engineer, showcasing innovation despite challenges. These roofs are crafted from more than a million concrete roof tiles, held in place by 217 miles of tensioned steel cables.
3. La Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain
Architect: Antoni Gaudí
Year completed: ongoing (begun 1882)
One of the most ambitious and dramatic buildings of all time, Barcelona’s Temple of the Holy Family remains unfinished nearly a century after Gaudí’s passing. Inspired by nature, Gaudí’s design includes towering structures adorned with colorful mosaics, three grand facades, and a giant nave that defies traditional architectural methods. As construction nears completion, the whimsical design continues to inspire visitors.
4. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Architect: Jean Nouvel
Year completed: 2017
A prominent symbol of Abu Dhabi, this museum has become a major draw for international visitors. Featuring art from diverse cultures and continents, the unique galleries invite comparisons and connections. Jean Nouvel’s massive steel dome creates a breathtaking “rain of light,” making the museum itself an ever-changing work of art.
5. Alára Concept Store, Lagos, Nigeria
Architect: David Adjaye
Year completed: 2015
This vibrant store embodies Lagos’ style scene, merging contemporary African designs with acclaimed global brands. Inside Adjaye’s stunning red-pigmented concrete cube, a soaring atrium encloses retail display spaces. This thoughtful design showcases African motifs and elevates local luxury.
6. Fallingwater, Mill Run, Pennsylvania, USA
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
Built: 1939
Fallingwater is an exquisite example of modern architecture, characterized by cantilevered terraces jutting over the serene Bear Run waterway. This harmonious design embodies the vision of Frank Lloyd Wright, bridging nature and modernity to create an inspiring place.
7. Cuadro San Cristobal, Mexico City, Mexico
Architect: Luis Barragán
Year completed: 1969
A fusion of modernism and Mexican tradition, Cuadro San Cristobal reflects Barragán’s design philosophy. This rural hacienda, adorned with vibrant pink and purple stucco, features distinct architectural elements and an inviting courtyard, evoking a sense of joy and cultural pride.
8. Chapelle de Notre-Dame du Haut, Ronchamp, France
Architect: Le Corbusier
Year completed: 1955
Le Corbusier’s stunning design for the Chapelle de Notre-Dame du Haut remains a significant contribution to architectural history. The chapel’s funnel shape channels attention toward the altar, while colorful stained glass windows infuse the space with ethereal light, creating an inspiring environment for reflection and worship.
9. National Stadium, Beijing, China
Architect: Herzog & de Meuron
Year completed: 2008
The National Stadium, affectionately known as the Bird’s Nest, symbolizes China’s architectural ambitions. This iconic structure, designed in partnership with artist Ai Weiwei, features a striking latticework of twisted steel that comes alive at night, captivating visitors with its elegance.
These architectural masterpieces not only showcase human ingenuity but also inspire travelers to explore the stories and cultures they embody. Ensure to plan your visits thoughtfully to appreciate these remarkable structures fully.
