The world is full of iconic landmarks – but how much do you really know about them? Here are 15 incredible facts that will surprise you!
Eiffel Tower

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The Eiffel Tower was originally considered an eyesore by many Parisians. In fact, it was only meant to stand for 20 years!
Taj Mahal

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The Taj Mahal changes color throughout the day – appearing pink in the morning, white during the day, and golden in the evening.
Machu Picchu

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Machu Picchu remained unknown to the outside world until 1911 when it was rediscovered by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham.
Statue of Liberty

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Did you know the Statue of Liberty was originally copper-colored? Over time, it turned green due to oxidation.
Colosseum

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The Colosseum in Rome could hold up to 50,000 spectators, and in ancient times, it was even flooded for naval battles.
The Great Wall of China

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Many believe the Great Wall of China can be seen from space, but that's actually a myth. However, it stretches over 21,000 kilometers!
Stonehenge

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Stonehenge is more than 5,000 years old, and the mystery of how its massive stones were transported remains unsolved.
Burj Khalifa

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The world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, is so high that you can watch the sunset twice – once from the ground and once from the top!
Big Ben

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Big Ben is not a tower! Many people think it refers to the famous London landmark, but it's actually the name of the clock inside Elizabeth Tower.
Leaning Tower of Pisa

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The famous tilt is still changing! Restoration efforts have straightened it slightly, but the tower continues to shift over time.
Christ the Redeemer

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The iconic statue in Rio is struck by lightning an average of 3–6 times per year. In 2014, one of its fingers was damaged in a major storm.
Petra

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The stunning rock city of Petra remained unknown to the outside world for over 600 years until it was rediscovered in 1812.
Mount Rushmore

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Mount Rushmore was originally planned to feature full-body statues of the presidents, but budget constraints meant only their heads were completed.
Louvre Museum

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The Louvre was originally a fortress! It was built in the 12th century to defend Paris before becoming a royal palace and later the world’s most-visited museum.
Niagara Falls

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Due to erosion, Niagara Falls is actually moving backward. Over the last 12,000 years, it has shifted about 10 kilometers!