Architecture is a unique way to express human creativity, and across the world, amazing buildings and monuments take the form of humanoid silhouettes. These structures spark wonder, tell stories and capture the imagination of observers. Let’s take a look at some of these incredible works of architectural art that dot the planet.
One of the first wonders to mention is the “Atacama Resurgence Monument” located in the Atacama Desert in Chile. This incredible monument, representing a giant hand reaching towards the sky, defies the extreme drought of the region. The impressive work, called “Mano de Desierto” in Spanish, embodies both human vulnerability and resilience in the face of hostile environments. A striking creation by Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal that has continued to captivate visitors since its creation in 1987.
In an equally astonishing register, in the Netherlands, stands the “Atlas Giant”, a massive sculpture of a reclining man stretching 75 meters long. Designed by Belgian artist Jean Op de Laak in the 1960s, this giant actually houses homes, offices and even a playground inside its body. Visitors have the opportunity to walk through the different rooms of the giant, offering a unique and immersive experience.
In China, in Langfang, there is a unique hotel with an extraordinary design: the “Tianzi Hotel”. This building designed to resemble three giant Chinese deities embodies fortune, prosperity and longevity. With its height of 41.6 meters, it holds the Guinness world record for the “largest image building”. Guests can stay in rooms located inside different parts of the gods, providing a truly extraordinary experience.
In the Netherlands, in Oegstgeest, the Corpus Museum is an unmissable destination for enthusiasts of the human body. This structure in the shape of a seated giant, 35 meters high, invites visitors to undertake an interactive journey through the human body. By exploring the organs and systems of the body, visitors discover the mysteries of human anatomy in a fun and educational way.
Finally, in the United States, in Ypsilanti, the “Ypsilanti Water Tower” is distinguished by its singular shape, often humorously described as a “phallic-shaped building”. Built in 1890, this historic 40 meter high water tower has become a local landmark and source of amusement. Despite its amusing nickname, the tower remains a vital part of the city’s history and helps keep its water system running smoothly.
These five humanoid structures illustrate the ingenuity of architects and artists around the world. Their unique design and visual impact make them must-see attractions, inviting visitors to marvel and reflect on the diversity of forms of artistic expression through architecture.