Without a doubt, concrete is the number one building material because of the number of uses it has. From skyscrapers and dams to bridges and statues, concrete can be used for so many things and has shaped the modern age - it’s practically seen in every city in the world. But, did you know, concrete has been around for hundreds and thousands of years, creating structures all around the world? Here are some of the most unique and impressive.
Considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer is an imposing and magnificent statue, renowned throughout the world. With open arms embracing the city of Rio de Janeiro in Southeastern Brazil, this art deco statue of Jesus Christ is built from concrete. Standing at the summit of Mouth Corcovado, this wonder is quite a climb to get to but the views of both the statue and world around it are a stunning sight to behold.
The Pentagon, United States of America
Literally shaped like a pentagon, the Pentagon is the headquarters for the United States Department of Defence. Built in just 16 months, mostly out of concrete, the Pentagon was completed in 1943 and is the world's largest low-rise office building. It is iconic and commanding all at once and can be found near Washington D.C. in Arlington County, Virginia.
Built in 126 AD, the Pantheon is one of the world’s most recognised and brilliant structures of concrete. Italy’s capital city, Rome, is home to this beautiful building and, although it was built so long ago, the structure still remains. As one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, it is a prime example of Roman history and architectural achievement in the modern world today.
Burj Khalifa, United Arab Emirates
As the tallest man-made structure on the planet, the Burj Khalifa is a commanding skyscraper that can be found in amongst Dubai’s eclectic skyline. Sitting at 830 metres tall, the primary construction material used is concrete. The impressive structure also boasts the highest number of stories in the world, an elevator with the longest travel distance in the world and the highest outdoor observation deck on record - would you stand and look down from it?
We may not be supplying concrete to those creating statues and buildings such as these, but our supply of ready-mix and volumetric concrete is high-quality and second-to-none. At WM Thompson & Son, we can provide affordable and reliable building materials from concrete to recycled aggregates today - contact us for more information.