Symbols of love, small and grand monuments become destinations in every corner of the world.
The language of love is universal and expressed in many ways. From architectural masterpieces to songs and romantic myths, symbols that endure over time and continue to move us. To mark Valentines Day, we present some of the most popular romantic landmarks from one end of the world to the other that still impress today.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, India and is considered by many the ultimate architectural symbol of love. It was built in 1631 by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal who passed away during childbirth. The mausoleum, which has over 7 million visitors annually, is made of white marble with intricate details and impressive gardens. A destination that symbolizes eternal love, it is regarded as one of the most important creations worldwide and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Juliets House, Italy
The romantic heritage of Verona in Italy draws lovers. Despite the fact that the story of Romeo and Juliet is fictional -although the inspiration seems to have come from real people-, Shakespeare aficionados and beyond pass daily through the doors of Juliets house in the center of Verona. The building on Cappello Street dates from the 13th century and the Dal Cappello family likely lived there, while it has changed many owners. The famous Juliets balcony, the centerpiece, seems to have been added in the early 20th century. Lovers leave their messages of love on the entrance walls, buy padlocks - hearts and touch the breast of the heroines bronze statue to bring them luck and love, according to a local belief.
The Wall of Love, Paris
Love in all languages is whispered through the narrow lanes of Montmartre. In the artistic neighborhood of Paris, in Jehan Rictus Square near the Abbesses metro station, there is the Wall of Love. The phrase "I love you" is written in 311 different languages on 612 tiles. The work, which gathers dozens of visitors daily for photos and vows of love, was created in 2000 by artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito and stands as a symbol of unity among peoples.
The Bridge of Sighs, Italy
The bridge of lovers, as it is otherwise known to the residents of Venice, has a dark history that is not related to love. Since the 17th century it has linked the Doges Palace with the citys old prisons and its name comes from a legend that says prisoners sighed when they crossed it, as they would be seeing Venice for the last time. Today, the small enclosed bridge, is among the citys most popular romantic spots. It is said that if a couple kisses as they pass beneath it by gondola, their love will endure forever.
Kodai-ji Temple, Japan
A temple dedicated to eternal devotion, the Kodai-ji, officially Kodaiji-jushozenji, was built in 1606 at the foot of the Higashiyama Ryozen mountains in Kyoto. Nene, also known as Kita no Mandokoro, built it in honor of her husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who contributed to the unification of Japan. After his death, she became a priestess and took the name Kodaiin Kogetsuni. The monument is surrounded by impressive gardens and remains even today one of the most romantic and serene places in Japan.
