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Eiffel Tower (Paris, France)
When people think of Paris, the Eiffel Tower instantly comes to mind. Yet, its path to fame was rocky from the very beginning. Gustave Eiffel’s iron masterpiece was fiercely criticized by some of the city’s leading artists and writers, who called it a “monstrosity” and an “eyesore.” A petition with hundreds of signatures tried to stop it from even getting started. The original plan was to keep the tower up for just 20 years after its completion in 1889, and then tear it down. But as technology advanced, the Eiffel Tower became a vital radio transmission point. This unexpected twist saved it from destruction, and it now draws over 7 million visitors every year. Today, it’s impossible to imagine the Paris skyline without it, proving that even the most controversial ideas can become beloved icons.
Statue of Liberty (New York, USA)
The Statue of Liberty, a beacon of freedom, almost never made it to New York Harbor. Both France and the United States faced serious fundraising issues, with the American side struggling especially to pay for the pedestal. For years, the project stalled, and hopes faded. It was only when newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer launched a fundraising campaign, urging ordinary Americans to donate whatever they could, that the final funds were raised. This grassroots effort led to its completion and dedication in 1886. The statue has since welcomed millions of immigrants and visitors, standing tall as a symbol of hope and democracy.
Sydney Opera House (Sydney, Australia)
The Sydney Opera House is a shining example of daring architecture, but its journey was anything but smooth. The project quickly spiraled over budget, with costs ballooning from an estimated $7 million to more than $100 million. Political turmoil and public anger nearly led to its cancellation in the 1960s. The original architect, Jørn Utzon, was so frustrated he resigned before the building was finished. Many feared the unique design would never be completed. Despite all this, the Opera House opened its doors in 1973 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosting over 1,500 performances annually. Its story is a testament to persistence in the face of adversity.
Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco, USA)
San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge now stands as a marvel of engineering, but its construction was clouded by doubt and controversy. Ferry companies opposed it, fearing competition, while politicians and engineers questioned whether it could withstand the region’s strong winds and currents. The financial strain of the Great Depression seemed like it would doom the project, but instead, it provided a source of jobs and hope for the city. Construction began in 1933 and finished in 1937, creating an Art Deco masterpiece that now attracts over 10 million visitors every year. The bridge is proof that determination can turn skepticism into triumph.
Big Ben (London, UK)
Big Ben, formally known as the Great Bell of the clock at the Palace of Westminster, faced a series of dramatic setbacks. A devastating fire in 1834 delayed construction, and disputes over the clock’s design and technical difficulties almost led to the project being scrapped. The clock mechanism itself presented major engineering challenges, with some experts doubting it could work as intended. Despite these obstacles, the tower was completed in 1859 and has since become one of the most recognizable symbols of London. Its chimes have marked countless historic moments, and it continues to captivate millions of visitors every year.
Mount Rushmore (South Dakota, USA)
Mount Rushmore’s four presidential faces are carved into American memory, but the monument narrowly escaped being left unfinished. Funding was a constant struggle, and there was heated controversy over carving into sacred Native American land in the Black Hills. When lead sculptor Gutzon Borglum died suddenly in 1941, the project lost its driving force. Budget constraints meant that the original plans for more detailed sculptures were never realized. The monument, though technically incomplete, still draws over 2 million visitors each year and remains a subject of debate and admiration.
Christ the Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
The majestic Christ the Redeemer statue almost never saw the light of day. Initial proposals in the late 1800s fizzled out due to lack of funding and political support. It wasn’t until the 1920s, when a group of Brazilian Catholics revived the idea, that serious planning began. Even then, raising enough money was a challenge, and construction faced several delays. Remarkably, the statue was finally completed in 1931, standing 30 meters tall atop Corcovado Mountain. Now, it is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, welcoming nearly 2 million visitors every year.
Lincoln Memorial (Washington, D.C., USA)
The Lincoln Memorial is a powerful monument, but its creation was almost derailed by criticism and financial concerns during World War I. Many in Congress thought the design was too grand and too costly for a nation at war. Modernist architects also opposed the classical style, calling it outdated. After years of debate, work finally began in 1914 and the memorial was finished in 1922. Since then, it has become a backdrop for historic events, such as Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, and is visited by over 7 million people annually.
Burj Khalifa (Dubai, UAE)
The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, almost fell victim to the 2008 global financial crisis. Construction costs soared to over $1.5 billion, and Dubai’s economy was hit hard. The project appeared doomed until neighboring Abu Dhabi provided critical financial aid, allowing work to continue. The tower opened in 2010, reaching an incredible 828 meters (2,717 feet) into the sky. Today, it stands as a symbol of Dubai’s ambition and resilience, drawing over 17 million visitors each year.
The Louvre Pyramid (Paris, France)
The glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum was fiercely debated from the moment it was proposed. Many Parisians and critics called it an eyesore, believing it clashed with the classical architecture of the historic palace. Public protests and political battles nearly caused the project to be scrapped altogether. However, architect I.M. Pei stood firm in his vision, and the pyramid was completed in 1989. It now serves as the museum’s main entrance and has become an iconic part of the Louvre, visited by over 10 million people annually.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
