Uncover the Secrets of These Famous Buildings
FAMOUS BUILDINGS – In this article, you will discover the secrets behind these six (6) famous buildings.
While our perception of renowned global structures often assumes a comprehensive understanding, some of these architectural marvels conceal intriguing secrets that are readily overlooked. Certain hidden features are intentionally designed for the privileged or elite, while others remain concealed both metaphorically and literally.
Among these mysteries, some stand out for their peculiarity, such as a European monument functioning as a covert, expansive telescope. Are you acquainted with the fascinating stories surrounding these six iconic buildings? Even if these peculiarities escape notice during your next visit, reflecting on them can provide an engaging mental exercise.
The Eiffel Tower Has a Secret Apartment on Top
Take, for example, the Eiffel Tower, which harbors a secret apartment at its summit. While apartments with views of the Eiffel Tower are highly coveted, possessing one within the iconic Parisian landmark is exceptionally rare. Constructed by Gustave Eiffel’s engineering firm for the 1889 International Exhibition, the tower conceals a 1,076-square-foot apartment with a wrap-around balcony. Eiffel, the visionary behind the tower, designated this space for himself, using it as a workspace for scientific pursuits rather than a residence. Today, the public can explore this area, adorned with wax figures of Eiffel, his daughter, and Thomas Edison.
The Real Taj Mahal Sarcophagi Are Hidden
Despite the intricate optical illusions and color changes seen in the Taj Mahal, the real tombs of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahān and his cherished wife, Mumtaz Mahal, are concealed beneath two elaborate structures within the monument. Although the cenotaphs in plain view may give the appearance of being the actual burial sites, the emperor and his wife are interred below, cleverly tucked away from public sight.
The Washington Monument Has a Tiny, Underground Twin
During the final years of the 1880s, as the construction of the Washington Monument approached its conclusion, a distinctive small-scale structure appeared at its base, standing at a modest height of 12.5 feet. This miniature replica played a crucial role in calibrating surveying equipment, guaranteeing accurate measurements of the surrounding terrain. Despite being relatively unknown, this scaled-down monument serves as a vital geodetic control point for government surveyors, hidden beneath the graded landscape surrounding the main monument.
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The Waldorf Astoria Hotel Has a Secret Train Station
Underneath the Waldorf Astoria, a prestigious luxury hotel in New York City, there is a secret train station. This hidden station has been utilized by various prominent individuals, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who employed it to evade public attention to his wheelchair. The concealed station is still available for esteemed guests desiring a discreet departure, contributing an element of mystery to the hotel.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa Is a Big, Empty Tube
Built over an extended period, the Leaning Tower of Pisa stands as a symbol of resilience despite its distinct tilt. In contrast to its outward look, the tower’s interior is essentially a large hollow tube devoid of floors, decorations, or windows. Initially designed as a bell tower, the removal of bells was necessary for stability, rendering the interior an empty structure. While visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the upper deck and enjoy the view, there is no opportunity for exploration within the interior.
The Monument in London Is Secretly a Telescope
The Monument in London, ostensibly erected as a 202-foot tower to commemorate the Great London Fire of 1666, holds a hidden secret known to only a few—a dual purpose as a colossal telescope. Originally credited to the famous architect Christopher Wren, the design of the structure was actually conceived by Robert Hooke, who incorporated his scientific enthusiasm into the monument’s concept. The upper part of the telescope allows for observation of the night sky, while the lower end is reachable through a hatch located in Hooke’s former physics laboratory.