While many travelers dream of visiting architectural wonders like the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum, not everyone knows there are replicas around the globe offering a similar experience. This isn't just about copying a famous building. This is about recreating entire atmospheres, about transporting you (sort of) to another corner of the globe. Each site tells a story of creativity, homage, and the universal language of architecture. Here are ten of the most mind-bending copycat landmarks that absolutely must be on your travel radar. See it to believe it!
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Standing tall in Tokyo, Japan’s Tokyo Tower draws clear inspiration from the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Completed in 1958, it surpasses its French counterpart in height, measuring 1,091 feet compared to the Eiffel Tower’s 1,083 feet. Painted in orange and white to comply with aviation safety laws, the tower’s design isn’t just about aesthetics.
Visitors can explore two observation decks: the main deck at 492 feet and the top deck at 820 feet. Accessible via elevators or a 600-step staircase, these decks offer breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline. The tower also has a playful side, with mascots known as the Noppon Brothers adding a touch of whimsy. Besides its visual appeal, the Tokyo Tower is both an iconic cultural and functional landmark that broadcasts signals and welcomes millions of visitors every year.
In Western Australia, Esperance Stonehenge recreates the renowned Stonehenge of England. Unlike the weathered stones of the original, this replica imagines how the monument looked when it was first constructed. Built using 137 massive granite stones sourced locally, it aligns with the solstices just like its ancient counterpart. Each stone is meticulously placed to mirror the original’s dimensions and positions.
Opened in 2011, this modern interpretation is set on a farm, blending history with rural charm. While the original Stonehenge is steeped in mystery, the Esperance version offers a chance to experience its grandeur in pristine form. Visitors can enjoy an up-close look at this tribute to ancient engineering, gaining insight into one of humanity’s most enigmatic structures.
In Bangladesh, filmmaker Ahsanullah Moni brought the elegance of the Taj Mahal to life with a full-scale replica completed in 2008. Moni’s vision stemmed from a desire to make the iconic structure accessible to locals who might never travel to India. Built with care, this replica retains the intricate details of the original, from its domes to its marble-like facade.
While some critics in India voiced concerns about copying the historic monument, Moni emphasized that his creation was meant to honor the Taj Mahal’s beauty and cultural significance. The replica has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from Bangladesh and beyond, and is a gift to those who dream of seeing one of the world’s wonders.
In Kolkata, India, a striking clock tower pays tribute to London’s Big Ben. Known as the Kolkata Time Zone Tower, this replica was completed in 2015 and stands nearly 100 feet tall. Though much shorter than Big Ben’s 315 feet, the tower captures the essence of its British inspiration.
Located along VIP Road near Lake Town, it adds a touch of grandeur to the area. Local officials noted that the tower was part of an effort to infuse Kolkata with a cosmopolitan vibe, and Big Ben was a fitting choice for the project. Its classic design and prominent location have made the Kolkata Time Zone Tower a recognizable landmark that combines local pride with global influence.
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Nashville, Tennessee, boasts a full-scale replica of the Parthenon, originally built for the 1897 Tennessee Centennial Exposition. While the original Parthenon in Athens is a symbol of ancient Greece, Nashville’s version celebrates art and culture. Initially constructed with temporary materials, the replica was later rebuilt with more durable components in the 1920s.
Today, it houses an art museum and a stunning recreation of the statue of Athena, which has been missing from the Greek site for centuries. Nashville's Parthenon is a standout attraction in the city thanks to its detailed architecture and cultural exhibits.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Niles, Illinois, is a creative reimagining of the iconic Italian landmark. Built in 1934, this half-scale replica stands 94 feet tall and was designed by businessman Robert Ilg to disguise a water tower needed for his park's swimming pools. While the original Pisa tower leans due to unstable soil, Niles' version tilts intentionally, adding a whimsical charm to its design. Over the years, the structure endured damage from weathering, but careful renovations preserved its unique appeal. Today, the tower is part of a small plaza, drawing visitors curious about its quirky backstory and photogenic appeal. While it lacks the centuries of history and precarious tilt of the original, it holds its own and is a great example of copycat landmarks.
Paris, Texas (yes, there is indeed a Paris in Texas), offers its own version of the Eiffel Tower, complete with a unique twist—a red cowboy hat perched on top. Standing 65 feet tall, this replica was erected in 1993 and adds a touch of Texan flair to the French icon. Illuminated at night in the colors of the Texan flag, it provides a whimsical take on the original’s grandeur. While smaller than its Parisian counterpart, the Texas Eiffel Tower holds its own as a local treasure. Lit up at night, it sparkles against the Texas sky, offering a romantic and whimsical escape.
Lisbon's Cristo Rei isn't just trying to be Rio's twin. It has its own story. Conceived after a Cardinal's Brazilian journey, it rose as a thank you – Portugal dodged the worst of World War II. While not as colossal as its inspiration, it still owns the skyline from its Almada hilltop. You get incredible city views, a sweep of the Tagus River, and a feeling of serenity. This monument is like a symbol of a nation's relief, a quiet promise kept. Think of it as a transatlantic handshake, a gesture of shared faith. The sanctuary is a place for contemplation and prayer.
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In Macau, China, a half-scale Colosseum stands as a surprisingly faithful, yet strangely out-of-place, landmark. Built as part of a larger entertainment complex, it lacks the crumbling grandeur and centuries of history of the Roman original. No gladiators here—this one hosts concerts and events. It's a curious juxtaposition, an ancient amphitheater reborn in a modern, bustling city. While it might not evoke the echoes of battles and roaring crowds, it's a striking visual, a reminder of how architectural forms can be reimagined and repurposed across cultures. The Colosseum is part of a theme park called Fisherman's Wharf. It is a place for a picture or to capture a snap for the gram!
The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom, has inspired numerous replicas worldwide. From Paris to Tokyo, these recreations vary in size and purpose. One notable version in Paris was a gift from Americans living in France, symbolizing the bond between the two nations. Another replica in Tokyo became so popular during its temporary display that a permanent version was installed. These statues bring a sense of unity and shared history to their locations, reminding visitors of the enduring ideals they represent.
