From the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Taj Mahal, many iconic monuments have counterparts, often built across the globe as symbols of cultural exchange. The MSG Sphere continues this fascinating tradition, uniting Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi with its stunning, cutting-edge design. So, let’s explore the replicas of the world’s most iconic monuments.
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Niles, USA
The Leaning Tower of Niles, Illinois, is a half-scale replica of the Tower of Pisa. Built in 1934 by industrialist Robert Ilg, the structure serves a dual purpose: celebrating Italian culture and concealing a water tower that supplies two large pools within a recreational park.
Taj Mahal, Dhaka, Bangladesh
In 2008, a Bangladeshi filmmaker commissioned the construction of a replica of the Taj Mahal in Dhaka to create an accessible version for everyone. This replica is one of seven copies of the Taj Mahal found around the globe, in places such as Dubai, China, and even Texas.
Statue of Liberty, Odaiba, Japan
In Odaiba, Japan, visitors can admire a replica of the Statue of Liberty, measuring just 1/7th the size of the original. Built in 1998 as a temporary installation, its popularity among locals and tourists convinced authorities to make it a permanent feature on Odaiba’s waterfront.
The Parthenon, Nashville, USA
An extraordinary full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon is located in Centennial Park, Nashville, Tennessee. Inside, it features a 12-meter-tall statue of Athena and detailed plaster replicas of the original Parthenon marbles. In addition to being a tribute to classical history, this replica also houses the Nashville Museum of Art.
Christ the Redeemer Statue, Almada, Portugal
During a visit to Rio, the Cardinal Patriarch of Lisbon, Manuel Gonçalves Cerejeira, was so captivated by the monumental statue that he commissioned a similar one in Almada, Portugal. Inaugurated in 1959, the Portuguese version, known as Christ the Redeemer, stands on an impressive pedestal overlooking Lisbon and the Tagus River.
Mount Rushmore, Chongqing, China
In China, a striking replica of the United States’ Mount Rushmore stands in Chongqing, the former capital during World War II. This imitation was commissioned by the Chinese government as a tribute to the Americans who provided crucial support during the war, contributing to Japan’s defeat.
