1. The Eiffel Tower, Paris
The Eiffel Tower has been a symbol of romance and innovation since it was built in 1889. In the early 1900s, it stood tall amidst a relatively open skyline. Today, it’s surrounded by modern buildings and bustling streets, yet it remains an iconic landmark.
2. Times Square, New York City
Times Square was once a modest intersection in the early 20th century. Fast forward to today, and it’s an explosion of lights, advertisements, and tourists. The transformation is nothing short of spectacular.
3. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall has stretched across China’s landscape for centuries. Photos from the early 1900s show a weathered structure with few visitors. Today, it’s a well-preserved tourist hotspot, drawing millions from around the globe.
4. The Colosseum, Rome
In the 1900s, the Colosseum was already an ancient relic but lacked the restoration efforts seen today. Now, it’s a carefully preserved monument that attracts history buffs and curious travelers alike.
5. The Statue of Liberty, New York City
Lady Liberty has welcomed immigrants and visitors since 1886. Early photos show her standing alone on Liberty Island. Today, she continues to stand proud, now surrounded by the modern skyline of Manhattan.
6. The Forbidden City, Beijing
The Forbidden City was once a secluded imperial palace. In the early 1900s, it was a mysterious and less-visited site. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, brimming with cultural significance and beauty.
7. The Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis has always been a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. Early 1900s photos show it in a state of disrepair. Presently, ongoing restoration projects have brought back some of its former glory.
8. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore didn’t exist in the early 1900s. By the late 1940s, the faces of four U.S. presidents were carved into the granite mountain. Today, it stands as a testament to American history and artistry.
9. Buckingham Palace, London
Buckingham Palace has always been the heart of the British monarchy. In the early 1900s, it was a grand yet somewhat austere building. Today, it remains grand but is now surrounded by lush gardens and bustling city life.
10. The Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal has been a marvel since its completion in 1653. Early 1900s photos show it as a majestic yet isolated structure. Today, it’s meticulously maintained and continues to be one of the world’s most visited landmarks.
11. The Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles
Originally reading “Hollywoodland” in the 1920s, the sign was an advertisement for a real estate development. Today, the shortened “Hollywood” sign is a global symbol of the entertainment industry.
12. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge has mystified people for ages. Early 1900s images show it in a more natural, untouched setting. Today, it’s a protected site with pathways and visitor centers to educate and guide tourists.
13. The Sydney Opera House, Australia
The Sydney Opera House didn’t exist until 1973. Before its construction, the area was a simple harbor. Today, the Opera House is a world-renowned architectural masterpiece and a major cultural hub.
14. The Berlin Wall, Germany
The Berlin Wall was erected in 1961 and fell in 1989. Photos from its early days show a stark, oppressive barrier. Today, remnants serve as a powerful historical reminder and a canvas for street art.
15. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu was relatively unknown until the early 20th century. Initial photos show it as an overgrown, abandoned site. Today, it’s a well-preserved archaeological wonder and a bucket-list destination.
16. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis
The Gateway Arch wasn’t completed until 1965. Before then, the area was just another part of the city. Today, the Arch stands as a unique and striking monument to westward expansion in the United States.
17. The Louvre, Paris
The Louvre has been a museum since 1793. Early 1900s photos show it as a grand but less frequented institution. Today, it’s the world’s largest and most visited museum, housing thousands of priceless works of art.
18. The Kremlin, Moscow
The Kremlin has been the seat of Russian power for centuries. Early 1900s photos show it as a fortified complex. Today, it’s both a political center and a tourist attraction, rich in history and architecture.
19. Central Park, New York City
Central Park has always been a green oasis in the middle of Manhattan. Early 1900s photos show a simpler, less manicured park. Today, it’s a beautifully maintained space where New Yorkers escape the urban hustle.
20. The Parthenon, Athens
The Parthenon has been a symbol of ancient Greece for millennia. Early 1900s photos show it in ruins. Today, restoration efforts continue to preserve this iconic structure for future generations.
21. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa has been leaning since its completion in the 14th century. Early 1900s photos show it at a more precarious angle. Today, stabilization efforts ensure it remains a safe and popular tourist site.
22. The Sphinx, Egypt
The Sphinx has watched over the Giza Plateau for thousands of years. Early 1900s photos show it partially buried in sand. Today, it’s fully excavated and remains one of Egypt’s most enigmatic monuments.
23. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA
Niagara Falls has been a natural wonder for centuries. Early 1900s photos show it as a raw, untamed force of nature. Today, it’s surrounded by infrastructure that allows millions to safely enjoy its beauty.
24. The Alhambra, Spain
The Alhambra has been a stunning example of Moorish architecture since the 13th century. Early 1900s photos show it in a state of neglect. Today, it’s a beautifully restored and heavily visited historic site.
25. Mount Fuji, Japan
Mount Fuji has been a sacred symbol in Japan for centuries. Early 1900s photos show it as a solitary peak. Today, it’s a well-known destination for climbers and photographers, surrounded by developed areas.
