Roofs have played a significant role in shaping history. From the grandiose structures of ancient times to the humble dwellings of peasants, roofs have sheltered people for centuries. Here are some famous roofs that have left their mark:
The Taj Mahal – Agra, India
One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Taj Mahal is a testament to the love of Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who are both interred in the mausoleum. The domed mausoleum is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
Dome of the Rock - Jerusalem
The Dome of the Rock, located in Jerusalem, was built in 691 AD and is one of the oldest Islamic structures in the world. The gold covered roof is symbolic of Islamic architecture. It is also significant in the history of Christianity and Judaism, as it is believed to be the site where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac.
Guggenheim Museum – New York, NY
The rooftop of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a major tourist spot in New York City. A spiral ramp winds its way up the museum's exterior to the roof providing stunning views of the city and allowing visitors to walk up and down the museum without having to go inside. The Guggenheim was designed by iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose vision was to create a space where visitors could experience art and architecture in an entirely new way.
Globe Theatre – London, UK
The Globe Theatre was a famous theater in the 16th century. Its roof was made of thatch and was a distinctive feature of the theater. It is also famous for being the venue for many of William Shakespeare's plays. The original building was torn down in 1644 to build tenements. Beginning in 1989, The Globe Theatre underwent a meticulous reconstruction to resemble the original theatre and finally opened in 1997. Today, the Globe hosts a full season of plays by Shakespeare and other playwrights.
Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain
Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic church designed by Antoni Gaudí. Construction began in 1882 and is still ongoing. Gaudí's designs were inspired by nature, and the church's curvilinear forms resemble trees, flowers, and the human body. The interior of the church is also highly decorated, with stained glass windows, mosaics, and sculptures.
Pantheon – Rome, Italy
The Pantheon in Rome is one of the most significant architectural wonders of ancient times. The structure's dome roof, which is made of concrete, is an engineering feat and one of the largest unsupported domes in the world. It has been a source of inspiration for architects and builders for centuries. Today, the Pantheon is still used as a church and is also a popular tourist attraction.
Blue Domed Roofs of Santorini – Santorini, Greece
The island of Santorini, Greece, is known for its stunning beauty and unique architecture. One of the most distinctive features of many Santorini buildings is their blue domed roofs. The roofs are made from traditional materials such as clay and are painted a bright shade of blue. The blue color is said to represent the sky and the sea, and it is also believed to have religious significance.
Sydney Opera House – Sydney, Australia
The Sydney Opera House is characterized by its distinctive sail-like roof structure, which is made up of hundreds of precast concrete panels. The complex geometry of the roof posed significant engineering challenges, which were eventually overcome through innovative construction techniques. The result is a harmonious blend of form and function, with the building seamlessly integrating into its natural surroundings.
Roofs have been a significant part of human civilization, and they continue to play a role in shaping our lives today. From the practical purpose of shelter to the artistic expression of architecture, roofs have a rich and varied history that is worth exploring.