From the pharaonic temples to the tallest bridges in the world, history is a journey through construction sites that have challenged engineering, extreme geographies, and time itself.
These famous architectures are not only masterpieces of engineering, but also tell the story of the courage to turn visionary ideas into reality, overcoming incredible challenges and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
1 – Construction of the Aswan High Dam and Rescue of the Abu Simbel Temples
In 1964, the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened the Abu Simbel Temples in Egypt. To save them, an international team — including companies that are now part of the Webuild Group — dismantled, transported, and reconstructed the temples on a safe elevated site.
Over 1,000 stone blocks, each weighing tens of tons, were relocated with millimetric precision, preserving their orientation, decorations, and colossal statues. This years-long operation is today regarded as a model of international cooperation between engineering and world heritage preservation.
2 – Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Project
Among the great construction sites that have tested the limits of contemporary engineering, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam stands out as one of the most monumental works ever built in Africa.
Constructed on the Blue Nile, in an extremely challenging geographical context, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam embodies the challenge of harnessing one of the planet’s major waterways.
Webuild played a central role in the construction project, tackling extreme challenges to shape an infrastructure destined to enter history, capable of transforming the energy future of an entire region.
3 – Ulm Cathedral (Ulmer Münster)
Ulm Cathedral embodies the determination of entire generations, with its spire reaching 161.5 meters, once making it the tallest church in the world.
Begun in 1377 and completed only in 1890 after centuries of interruptions, the building stands as a testament to the strength of a community determined to give their city a monument that could challenge the sky.
Today, the Ulmer Münster is not just stone and height: it is a symbol of perseverance, Gothic art, and urban identity.
4 – Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Família, the famous church in Barcelona, is undoubtedly one of the most challenging and fascinating construction sites in the history of modern architecture. Work began in 1882 but has faced interruptions, modifications, and delays, and the project is still not complete.
Today, thanks to new technologies, 3D modeling, and advanced construction methods, the Barcelona cathedral has regained momentum. The central tower dedicated to Jesus, which will reach 172.5 meters, is expected to make the Basilica de la Sagrada Família the tallest church in the world.
5 – Beipanjiang Bridge
The Beipanjiang Bridge soars 565 meters above the Beipan River valley and was considered the highest bridge in the world for years.
Connecting two remote mountains in Guizhou Province, China, with a main span of 720 meters and a total length of approximately 1,341 meters, this modern architecture is a true engineering marvel.
Completed in 2016, the bridge is not only a technical record: it has transformed a rugged mountain pass into a vital transportation route, proving that the challenges of geography can be overcome with vision, technology, and boldness.
