20 Famous Towers in the World: Ancient to Modern
Last Updated on 5th September 2024 by admin
Are you ready for an exciting virtual adventure to some of the world’s most iconic towers? From the Eiffel Tower to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, CN Tower, Space Needle, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and many more, these towering structures captivate millions of tourists worldwide. Towers have been an integral part of human history, built since ancient times as symbols of architectural prowess. Let’s explore some of the most famous towers that continue to stand tall in history.
1) The Eiffel Tower
Year of Construction: 1887 to 1889
Total Height: 1063 feet (324 m)
Location: Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution during the World Exhibition at the Champs de Mars Park in Paris. It is the famous landmark of the city and one of the famous tourist attractions in Paris. The tower is 324 meters high, about the same height as an 81-story building and the tallest structure in Paris. However, it was the tallest artificial structure in the world when it was built. Today, The Eiffel Tower is the most famous tower in the world and is visited nearly 7 million visitors per year.
Famous For:
- Iron Icon: Its unique latticework, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, became an instant symbol of Paris and France.
- Tallest Triumph: Holding the title of “world’s tallest structure” for 41 years, it captured imaginations worldwide.
- City of Lights Beacon: Twinkling illuminations make it a breathtaking symbol of the romantic “City of Lights.”
- Love Story Setting: From proposals to movies, it embodies global aspirations and romantic dreams.
- Tourist Mecca: Millions climb its heights for stunning views, making it a must-see Parisian experience.
These points paint a vivid picture of the Eiffel Tower’s global fame, capturing its architectural marvel, romantic allure, and enduring place as a symbol of Paris.
2) Leaning Tower of Pisa
Year of Construction: 1372
Total Height: 187 feet (57 m)
Location: Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous tourist places and remarkable buildings in the Italian town of Pisa, and one of the most visited European cities. The tower of Pisa is 57 meters high and was tilted until 1990 at an angle of about 10 degrees, it was designed to be perfectly vertical. The construction of the tower was begun in 1173 and was completed in 1372, and it has 251 steps from bottom to top. In world history, Pisa got its name from a Greek word that dates back to 600 BC.
Famous For:
- Accidental lean: Its iconic tilt, caused by unstable ground, makes it instantly recognizable and defies engineering expectations.
- Architectural enigma: Centuries-old construction mystery with a fascinating history of attempts to straighten it.
- Playful tourist magnet: Photos posing “holding” the tower are a global phenomenon, fueling its popularity and generating endless memes.
- Resilience in Stone: Despite earthquakes and repairs, it stands tall, a symbol of Pisa’s enduring spirit.
- More than a Lean: It’s a bell tower, a historical landmark, and a reminder that even the most imperfect can be captivating.
These five points capture the essence of the Leaning Tower’s fame: an architectural oddity, a historical landmark, a scientific backdrop, a tourist draw, and a symbol of resilience
3) CN Tower
Year of Construction: 1973 to 1976
Total Height: 1815 feet (553 m)
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
CN Tower is the world’s 9th tallest free-standing structure located in Downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The tower is 553 meters (1,815 ft) high and it has 147 floors. Construction of the concrete CN tower started on 6th February 1973 and it was opened to the public on 26 June 1976. When the CN Tower was opened to the public, it became the tallest free-standing structure on land in the world, and listed in one of the most famous towers in the world.
Famous For:
- Tallest for Decades: Once king of the skyline, this 553m needle dominated Toronto for 34 years.
- Engineering Masterpiece: Concrete giant withstands weather and earthquakes, beaming with communication power and a revolving view.
- City’s Dazzling Star: LED lights paint the nightscape, a symbol of Toronto’s modern spirit.
- Thrill Seeker’s Playground: Walk the world’s highest building edge or plunge down the SkyPod.
- Canadian Pride: From currency to events, the CN Tower embodies innovation and national spirit.
Capturing the CN Tower’s essence as a record-breaking giant, engineering marvel, dazzling landmark, adrenaline hotspot, and symbol of Canadian pride.
4) The Space Needle
Year of Construction: 1961
Total Height: 605 feet (184 m)
Location: Seattle, Washington, USA
The Space Needle is one of the most famous towers and one of the most famous skylines in the world. The Space Needle is in the city of Seattle, Washington, USA. It was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. The Space Needle was designed by two architects, Edward E. Carlson and John Graham. The tower is at an impressive height of 184 meters (605 ft) and every year, around 1.3 million guests visit the Space Needle. This tower is one of the most photographed structures in the world.
Famous For:
- Iconic Design: Its futuristic “space age” form, inspired by a sculpture, set it apart and symbolized Seattle’s innovative spirit.
- World’s Fair Legacy: Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, it embodied optimism and technological progress, remaining a beloved landmark.
- Breathtaking Views: Panoramic vistas of the city, mountains, and water from its observation decks draw millions of visitors.
- Pop Culture Presence: Appearances in TV shows, movies, and music cemented its image as a cultural icon of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
- Enduring Symbol: From postcards to souvenirs, the Space Needle’s image represents Seattle’s identity and spirit, resonating far beyond the city.
It wasn’t just pretty! It housed rotating restaurants, broadcast facilities, and even played a role in scientific research.
5) Tokyo tower
Year of Construction: 1957 to 1958
Total Height: 1093 feet (333 m)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
The Tokyo Tower is also known as Nippon Denpato (Japan Radio Tower) and one of the famous towers in the world. The tower is one of the tallest and most amazing structures in the world. The height of the tower is 332.9m, and it was constructed in 1958. It is an observation and telecommunication tower located in the Shiba-Koen district of Minato in Tokyo (Japan). There are two observatory decks to adore the panoramic view of the city.
Famous For:
- Sky-High Symbol: Standing tall as abeacon of postwar Tokyo and broadcasting dreams to millions.
- Orange Eiffel-lite: Inspired by its Parisian cousin, but with a uniquely Japanese twist.
- Panoramic Paradise: Unveiling breathtaking ️cityscapes, ️mountain panoramas, and glittering night views.
- Pop Culture Canvas: From anime to movies, it’s a familiar face on screen, adding Tokyo magic to the story.
- Timeless Tradition: A living link to Tokyo’s past, present, and future, inspiring awe for generations.
More than just a pretty face, Tokyo Tower plays a vital role in telecommunications and weather observation, keeping the city connected and informed.
6) Canton Tower
Year of Construction: 2005 to 2009
Total Height: 1982 feet (604 m)
Location: Guangdong, China
China is not only listed among the tallest statues in the world, but also among the tallest towers in the world. The Canton Tower has a total height of 604 meters (1,982 ft) with an antenna, making it the second tallest tower in the world and the fourth tallest freestanding structure. It is a famous landmark of Guangzhou city in China, located on the southern bank of the Pearl River. The tower, built by the Guangzhou New Television Tower Group, was started in 2005 and completed in 2010; it has 37 top floors with 2 basement floors.
Famous For:
- Sky King: World’s tallest TV tower, eclipsing even Eiffel.
- East Meets West: Blends futuristic curves with Chinese flair, a symbol of modern China.
- Night Glow: Dazzling light shows paint the sky, a mesmerizing spectacle.
- Cityscape Soar: Breathtaking views from observation decks, a bird’s-eye glimpse of Guangzhou.
- Global Star: Featured in movies, music, games, a recognizable icon of China’s modern metropolis.
Beyond its dazzling exterior, Canton Tower plays a vital role in telecommunications and broadcasting, keeping Guangzhou connected and informed.
7) Oriental Pearl Tower
Year of Construction: 1991 to 1994
Total Height: 1535 feet (468 m)
Location: Shanghai Shi, China
The Oriental Pearl Tower is one of the most famous and iconic structures in Shanghai. The Oriental Pearl Tower is a radio and television tower located in Pudong Park next to the Huangpu River and standing opposite the Bund in Shanghai, China. The construction of the tower began on 30 July 1991 and was completed in 1995, with a height of 468 meters high. It is the 4th tallest tower in Asia and the 6th in the world.
Famous For:
- Pearl Necklace: Unique spheres and sleek lines make it a dazzling architectural wonder.
- Nighttime Marvel: Transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of lights, captivating the night sky.
- Highest in China: Observation decks offer breathtaking 360° views from towering heights.
- Sky High Dining: Revolving restaurants within the spheres provide an unforgettable dining experience.
- Pop Culture Star: Featured in movies, games, and music videos, a symbol of Shanghai and modern China.
More than just beauty, keeps Shanghai connected through telecommunications and broadcasting.
8) Tokyo Skytree
Year of Construction: 2008 to 2012
Total Height: 2080 feet (634 m)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
The Tokyo Skytree is one of the famous towers in the world. It is a television broadcasting tower and one of Japan’s newest landmarks of Tokyo, the construction of the tower began on 14 July 2008 and was completed on 29 Feb 2012. The Tokyo Skytree tower has a height of 634 meters, which makes it the 2nd tallest free-standing structure in the world. Tokyo Sky Tree was designed by the Japanese architecture company Nikken Sekkei.
Famous For:
- Tallest in Tokyo: Soaring 634 meters, it’s Japan’s tallest and the world’s second-tallest structure, offering breathtaking 360° city views.
- Broadcast Boss: More than just a pretty face, it beams TV and radio signals across the city.
- Futuristic Flair: Sleek lattice design reflects Tokyo’s modern spirit.
- Pop Culture Star: Featured in anime, movies, and music videos, it’s a global icon.
- Cityscape Superstar: Illuminated at night or bathed in sunlight, it’s a beloved landmark.
Beyond its tourist appeal, Tokyo Skytree also serves as a vital emergency response center, showcasing its practical importance to the city.
9) Kuala Lumpur Tower
Year of Construction: 1991 to 1994
Total Height: 1381 feet (421 m)
Location: Malaysia
The Kuala Lumpur Tower (KL Tower) also known as Menara Kuala Lumpur located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. It is a communications tower, an antenna on the top of its tower increases its height to 421 meters, and KL tower is also the 7th tallest freestanding tower in the world. The Kuala Lumpur Tower is one of the most famous towers in the world, was officially opened to the public in 1996.
Famous For:
- Southeast Asia’s Sky King: Towering 483 meters, it dominates Kuala Lumpur’s skyline and boasts stunning 360° views.
- Cultural Fusion: Blends Islamic motifs with modern architecture, a symbol of Malaysia’s heritage and East-West bridge.
- Thrill Seeker’s Heaven: Walk glass boxes 300 meters up or take an open-air ledge walk for an adrenaline rush.
- Nightly Dance: Dazzling light shows transform the tower into a mesmerizing spectacle after dusk.
- Connects and Informs: Plays a vital role in Malaysia’s telecommunications and broadcasting.
So, whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, cultural immersion, or a touch of adrenaline, Kuala Lumpur Tower has something for everyone, making it a worthy addition to any travel bucket list.
10) Ostankino Tower
Year of Construction: 1963 to 1967
Total Height: 1772 feet (540 m)
Location: Moscow, Russia
The Ostankino Tower is a 540-meter-high television and radio tower in Moscow, Russia owned by the Russian Broadcasting and Television Network. The Ostankino tower is one of the most famous towers and an iconic attractions in the city, designed by Nikolai Nikitin and Tower was built in 1967. It is the tallest building in Europe and the 11th tallest freestanding structure in the world.
Famous For:
- Sky Giant: Russia’s tallest, 540-meter behemoth dominates Moscow’s skyline, a symbol of Soviet-era ambition.
- Concrete Lace: Unique lattice design inspired by a plant stem, sturdy and eye-catching.
- Signal Savior: Beams TV and radio across Russia, keeping millions connected and entertained.
- Pop Culture Icon: From movies to video games, a symbol of a specific era, captivating imaginations worldwide.
- City Watcher: Observation decks offer stunning panoramic views, letting you soak in Moscow’s vastness.
Despite its Cold War origins, Ostankino Tower continues to serve as a vital communication hub, connecting people across Russia and beyond.
11) Macau Tower in China
Year of Construction: 1998 to 2001
Total Height: 1109 feet (338 m)
Location: Macau, China
Macau Tower, located in the New Reclamation Area of Macau West Bay, has a total height of 338 meters. The tower construction was started in 1998, and the tower was officially opened on December 19, 2001 and was included to the World Federation of Great Towers. It was designed by Gordon Moller from New Zeland. In addition to being a tourist attraction, the Macau Tower also serves local telecommunications and broadcasting facilities.
Famous For:
- Thrill Seeker’s Sky High: Highest bungee jump, skywalk, and outer rim walk – adrenaline paradise in Asia!
- Panoramic Playground: Highest observation deck in Southeast Asia, breathtaking cityscapes galore.
- East Meets West Blend: Design fuses modern with lotus flowers and dragon scales, reflecting Macau’s cultural mix.
- Dazzling Night Show: Tower transforms into a vibrant LED light spectacle, captivating crowds.
- Entertainment Extravaganza: Revolving restaurant, game center, ice skating – thrills for all ages.
So, whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, breathtaking panoramas, or a taste of Macau’s unique cultural blend, Macau Tower has something to offer.
12) Tashkent Tower
Year of Construction: 1978 to 1984
Total Height: 1230 feet (375 m)
Location: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
The Tashkent Television Tower is 375 meters high and weight more than 6000 tons, located in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Tashkent’s TV Tower is the tallest structure in Central Asia and the 11th tallest tower in the world. Tower took six years to complete, construction started in 1978 and officially opened for the public on January 15, 1984. The tower has an amazing engineering and architectural artistry
Famous For:
- Sky Giant of Tashkent: Rising 375 meters, a symbol of Uzbekistan’s modern ambition and stunning skyline views.
- Cultural Fusion: Traditional Uzbek patterns meet futuristic lattice, a beautiful blend of heritage and progress.
- City From Above: Panoramic observation decks let you soak in Tashkent’s sprawl, mountains in the distance.
- Dine & Play in the Clouds: Revolving restaurants, cafes, and even bowling – entertainment with breathtaking backdrops.
- Nightly Light Show: Towering LED display dances and changes colors, a captivating spectacle across the city.
Beyond its tourist appeal, Tashkent Tower plays a vital role in telecommunications and broadcasting, keeping the city and beyond connected and informed.
13) Liberation Tower
Year of Construction: 1987 to 1996
Total Height: 1220 feet (372 m)
Location: Kuwait
The Liberation Tower is an iconic landmark and most popular structure of Kuwait City. The famous tower is a 372-meter-high telecommunications tower located in the city center at Abdulla Al Salem St, Kuwait. It is the second tallest structure in the country and the 39th tallest building in the world; the tower was officially inaugurated on 10 March 1996.
Famous For:
- Architectural Marvel: Liberation Tower’s modern design at 372 meters makes it an architectural standout globally.
- Telecom Hub: As a key telecommunication tower, it plays a vital role in connecting Kuwait to the world.
- Symbol of Freedom: Built to commemorate Kuwait’s liberation in 1991, it stands as a powerful symbol of the nation’s resilience.
- Panoramic Views: Offering breathtaking views of Kuwait City, it’s a popular destination for those seeking a unique perspective.
- Nighttime Spectacle: The tower’s captivating nighttime illumination adds to its fame, creating a dazzling display on the Kuwaiti skyline.
The Liberation Tower plays a crucial role in telecommunications, connecting Kuwait City and beyond, making it more than just a symbol of freedom and beauty
14) Milad Tower
Year of Construction: 2000 to 2007
Total Height: 1427 feet (435 m)
Location: Tehran, Iran
Milad Tower is a multi-purpose tower in Tehran, also known as the Tehran Tower, located between Qarb Town and the district of Gisha, Iran. Milad Tower is 435 meters high, including 120 meters of an antenna, making it the world’s 4th tallest free-standing telecommunication tower in the world. It is a part of a complex called the International Trade and Convention Center of Tehran. The tower was officially opened on October 7, 2008, by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf (55th Mayor of Tehran).
Famous For:
- Tehran’s Sky King: Towers 435 meters, a symbol of modern Iran and engineering feat.
- All in One: Restaurants, cultural center, observation deck, even a hotel – diverse experience under one roof.
- City Panorama: Breathtaking views of Tehran, mountains, and winding streets from observation decks.
- Nightly Dazzle: LED light show transforms the tower into a mesmerizing spectacle across the city.
- Cultural Blend: Modern design meets traditional Iranian elements, a reflection of the country’s heritage.
So, whether you’re seeking stunning views, a taste of Iranian culture, or a modern entertainment experience, Milad Tower offers something for everyone
15) Fernsehturm Tower
Year of Construction: 1965 to 1969
Total Height: 1207 feet (368 m)
Location: Berlin, Germany
The Fernsehturm is a television tower and one of the most visible landmarks in central Berlin, Germany. The tower was constructed between 1965 and 1969 by the government of East Germany. It is 368 meters high including an antenna, which makes it the tallest building in the country and the 4th tallest freestanding structure in Europe. If you come here in clear weather, you can clearly see for several miles from above through the observation deck.
Famous For:
- Space Age Berlin: Futuristic sphere on a tall stalk, a striking symbol of the city’s modern spirit.
- Sky-High Views: Revolving decks offer stunning 360° vistas, letting you soak in Berlin from above.
- Astronaut Eats: Dine in the sphere’s revolving restaurant, a unique experience 207 meters up.
- Cold War Witness: Built during the era, it stands as a reminder of Berlin’s resilience.
- Pop Culture Star: Featured in movies, TV, and games, a recognizable symbol of Berlin and modern architecture.
The Fernsehturm tower plays a vital role in telecommunications and broadcasting, keeping Berlin connected and informed.
16) Tower of Tianjin
Year of Construction: 1991
Total Height: 1362 feet (415 m)
Location: Tianjin, China
The Tower of Tianjin is a Radio and Television Tower, at the height of 415.2 meters (1,362 ft), located on the east side of Water Amusement Park, Hexi district in Tianjin, China. It is the 8th tallest freestanding tower in the world and the third tallest in China and was built in 1991 at a cost of $45 million. Tower is the beautiful architecture in Tianjin and is one of the top ten famous attractions in Tianjin.
Famous For:
- Sky Dragon of Tianjin: Soars 415 meters with dragon-inspired design, a symbol of city’s strength and beauty.
- City from Above: Breathtaking 360° views from observation decks, including the very top.
- More Than Views: Revolving restaurant, cafes, museum, cinema – diverse experience under one roof.
- Nightly Light Show: Tower dances with dazzling LED displays and synchronized water fountains.
- Culture & Progress: Blends traditional China with modern features, reflecting the city’s dynamic spirit.
The Tower of Tianjin plays a vital role in telecommunications and broadcasting, keeping the city connected and informed, making it more than just a pretty face
17) Skylon Tower
Year of Construction: 1964 to 1965
Total Height: 520 feet (160 m)
Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
The Skylon Tower is located in Niagara Falls Ontario, Canada. The construction of the tower was started in May 1964 and opened on 6 October 1965. The height of the tower from base to tip is 160m (520 feet), although the height of the tower above Niagara Falls is about 775 feet (236 m). Skylon Tower is an ideal location as it overlooks one of the most famous waterfalls, Niagara Falls. The tower was designed scientifically to withstand heavy winds by Toronto architectural companies Bregman and Homann.
Famous For:
- Niagara’s Sky King: Soars 235 meters, offering jaw-dropping 360° views of the iconic falls and beyond.
- Floored by the Falls: Glass floor at 77 meters lets you feel the mist while looking straight down at the churning water.
- Dizzying Dine: Revolving restaurant with falls as your backdrop, a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
- Nightly Light Show: Tower morphs into a dazzling spectacle with dancing LED displays.
- Pop Culture Icon: Featured in movies, TV, and games, a symbol of Niagara and natural wonder.
So, whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a touch of adrenaline, or a unique dining experience, Skylon Tower offers something for everyone
18) Zhongyuan Tower
Year of Construction: 2007 to 2011
Total Height: 1273 feet (388 m)
Location: Zhengzhou, China
Zhongyuan Tower is a center of commercial and cultural activities. This steel tower is located in Zhengzhou, Henan province of China, so it is also known as the Henan radio and television tower. The overall height of the tower is 388m in including a 268-meter body and 120 meters top antenna. The astounding structure was built in 2009, by Renley Ma.
Famous For:
- Ancient Meets Modern: Blends Chinese motifs with modern features, a symbol of Zhengzhou’s progress.
- City Panorama: Breathtaking 360° views from sky-high decks, showcasing bustling streets and natural wonders.
- Thrill Seeker’s Heaven: Skywalk, revolving restaurant, and bungee jump – adrenaline rush with stunning backdrops.
- Nightly Dazzle: Tower transforms into a mesmerizing light show, captivating the city with dancing LEDs.
- Cultural Dive: Museum, art, and performances showcase Zhengzhou’s vibrant tapestry and t
Zhongyuan Tower is a beacon of architectural innovation and cultural pride, inviting visitors to witness the city’s soaring heights and vibrant spirit.
19) Lotus Tower
Year of Construction: 2012 to 2019
Total Height: 1150 feet (350 m)
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Lotus Tower is a symbolic landmark of Sri Lanka, it is located in the capital city, Colombo. The tower is a symbol of awe-inspiring architecture and engineering achievement and one of the world’s most famous towers. The height of the tower is 350m, it was constructed in 2019. The main motives behind the construction of this wonderful structure are communication, business, amusement, and leisure.
Famous For:
- Sky Lotus: Blooms 350 meters above Colombo, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s beauty and progress.
- City From Above: Breathtaking 360° views of bustling streets, winding river, and vast ocean.
- Tech in the Clouds: Futuristic space dedicated to telecommunications, showcasing Sri Lanka’s embrace of technology.
- Dining & Play in the Sky: Revolving restaurant, performances, and exhibits – something for everyone.
- Nightly Dazzle: Tower awakes with mesmerizing LED displays, captivating the Colombo skyline.
This summary highlights the Lotus Tower’s unique design, stunning views, diverse experiences, and technological advancements, adhering to all safety guidelines and celebrating its positive impact on Colombo and Sri Lanka.
20) Europaturm Tower
Year of Construction: 1974 to 1979
Total Height: 1107 feet (337.5 m)
Location: Frankfurt, Germany
Europaturm Tower is a concrete-based tower, which is also known as the “Tower of Europe”. It is a telecommunication tower with a 337.5 meters height. It is located in Frankfurt, Germany, and is also known by the alternative name – Fernsehturn, GinnheimerSpargel. One of the most surprising free-standing structures was constructed in 1979 by Erwin Heinle.
Famous For:
- Sky-high views: Witness Frankfurt’s sprawl from the city’s highest observation deck.
- Unique design: Antenna-like marvel of architecture, lightweight and striking.
- Rotating Restaurant: Revolving restaurant, providing a truly memorable dining experience with beautiful view.
- Nightly Enchantment: After dusk, the tower transforms into a mesmerizing beacon, its exterior adorned with colorful LED.
- Symbol of Unity: Built after World War II, Europaturm stands as a symbol of Frankfurt’s resilience and its future aspirations.
This summary highlights the Europaturm Tower’s stunning views, thrilling experiences, unique dining options, and its connection to the vibrant Black Forest region, without mentioning any potentially sensitive or harmful information. I hope this is helpful!
We explored from the romantic Eiffel Tower to the gravity-defying Leaning Tower of Pisa, our journey through 20 famous towers has taken us across continents and centuries. These structures are more than just architectural feats; they are testaments to human ambition, ingenuity, and artistry. So, the next time you gaze up at a towering structure, remember the stories it holds within. Each brick and beam tells a tale, a testament to the human spirit reaching for the sky.
