Historical Old buildings in Europe: So Authentic and Unique!
European old buildings are so special! There is something very alluring about them. Is it because many are so unique and one of the kind? Or maybe, because there is nothing like them is built any longer?
This post is about authentic and unique historic old buildings in Europe, some famous, some unknown, but all so pretty!
What is the best part of Europe?
While Europe has everything for everyone, I am the most fascinated with its beautiful older historical buildings and castles, oozing rich history and European charm. These houses draw me like powerful magnets. So, this is what I will talk about here.
Old architectures and architectural styles of buildings in Europe
Some European buildings can be categorized by certain architectural styles. Keep in mind, I am only talking about old architectures and older buildings here, as I am not really interested in modern architecture.
Here is the hall of Ambassadors in Royal Alcazar in Seville built in Mudéjar style. And below is a staircase from this Alcazar. Isn’t it very cool? This is because the popular architectural element in Spain – tiles.
Historic buildings in Europe
Some of these buildings are recognized as historic buildings of Europe. Like this one…
The Colosseum is a famous historic building in Rome, one of the best European destinations! I loved visiting the Colosseum at night, when it’s illuminated and pretty.
Below is a short video I made about my visit of the Colosseum and fun facts about it.
Though, I would be the first to mention that quite often I like less famous old buildings in that area , or in other areas or towns, equality, if not more!
Marvels of architecture
But sometimes you see the marvels that stand out even among the finest European buildings! And you know they are the marvels and epic with all certainty when you look at them!
Like this beauty of the ancient Roman architecture!
This is the Teatro Marcello, an ancient open-air theater in Rome, Italy, built in the late Roman Republic era. Commissioned by Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus in 13 BC, it was named after Augustus’s nephew, Marcus Claudius Marcellus. The theater could originally seat up to 20,000 spectators and was used for various performances and entertainment.
Its facade features three tiers of arches in the classic Roman style, which later influenced the design of the Colosseum.
The upper levels of the structure have been converted into luxury apartments, while the ground level occasionally hosts summer concerts, blending ancient history with modern use.
Isn’t it a remarkable example of ancient Roman architecture?!
Uncategorized but very cool old buildings
Some old buildings haven’t been officially recognized as historic buildings yet, but you can’t help but feel a connection to history and the way generation upon of generations of people lived their lives in that house before you!
Look at this incredible ancient house in Napoli and many additions in different architectural styles that were built over the centuries. And yet it’s still standing and makes people happy!
Well, at least it definitely makes me happy each time I’m in Naples. It’s my “secret” house, as it’s not on a main street, you get get there through an archway off one main street.
Would you like to know where it is?:) You can ask me on social media.
There are also some houses that are just cute while, technically, not in the best shape paint-wise!:), like this blue house on Burano, Venice, Italy.
And some older houses in Europe cannot be described by any architectural style, or even a certain shape. And yet they make my heart beat faster and fill me with such excitement!
BTW, I’m working on my video about Burano and other islands I explored down to every single street last summer in 2024. I will show you many more wonderful and pretty houses there!
Burano, Italy, and it’s houses
Burano is a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, about 7 kilometers from Venice, Italy. It’s famous for its brightly colored cute houses, that create a picturesque and vibrant townscape. The tradition of painting houses in vivid colors dates back centuries and served a practical purpose for the island’s fishing community.
The bright colors helped fishermen identify their homes from a distance when returning from sea, especially during foggy conditions. Each color combination is unique to a family and strictly regulated by the local government. Today, this colorful tradition continues.
The island is also famous for its handmade lace. I took about a million pictures of the houses when I revisited recently, but how can one not to?;)
Speaking of some exciting, though not in the best shape paint-wise buildings… Mediaeval L’Espluga de Francoli has a great number of wonderful odd-shaped historical buildings; here is one of them.
Also, these 2 older houses in Lisbon make walking there very pleasant. Architecture walking and exploration is one of the best things to do in Lisbon. Check out my post about Lisbon to see a great number of beautiful old houses.
Palaces and Castles in Europe
There are also many palaces and castles in Europe. They are the most impressive buildings in Europe and I am on a mission to see them all, eventually!
Here is Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal with Yellow and Lilac colored towers. Its architectural style is Romanesque Revival, or Neo-Manueline. It looks great from the outside.
Don’t forget to visit the interior of the former Royal Palace, when visiting Sintra!
And here is the dramatic-looking Ovo Castle in Naples, Italy, built in Norman Architectural style.
Can you feel how it oozes history? Can you imagine the battles it has seen?
Unusual buildings and structures in Europe
Europe, rich with different old architectural styles, has some very unusual-looking buildings and structures.
Like this multistory masonry spiral staircase structure in Regaleira Palace in Sintra, Portugal, called the Initiation Well. It leads to some underground tunnels.
church buildings in Europe
And of course, when I think about different old architectures in Europe, I should also mention church buildings. They interest me from an architectural point of view, and there are many either magnificent churches, exquisite or one of a kind.
This white old whitewashed church is standing at the end of a narrow alley in Cordoba, Spain. And it felt very special to me, even though I don’t know much facts about it!
Or, look at this beautiful SANTO ILDEFONSO church in Porto, Portugal, that was built in a proto-Baroque style. Isn’t it special?
Links to some of my other posts
Best Way to Get Around Portugal
Museum of Carriages in Portugal
Not just pretty but a reminder
But old buildings in Europe are not just pretty or stunning structures.
They also help us remember important things from the past like how people used to live and build things. These buildings are valuable for the history and culture they represent.
It’s important to take care of them so we can keep our European heritage alive and teach future generations about our past. Old buildings are precious and should be passed down for people to enjoy and learn from.
If you would like to discover some other interesting destinations in Europe, check out my other blog.
There are many ways to get to those destinations. You can fly in, or you can take a train, or ride a comfortable bus; here is a review of major European bus companies.
Just be careful whom you are buying your tickets from: some can be tricky! Read my review of kiwi.com, for example.
Do you like old buildings? Let’s connect on social media and you can share with me your favorites!
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