Limestone is a very durable and beautiful sedimentary rock that is mostly used for buildings and carvings. Limestone though is very expensive and is heavy so it is really difficult to move around. Yet, since it is readily available, many buildings have been created with a limestone facade. These beautiful architecture using limestone can be found in North America and Europe, as far as Malta and even Egypt. Even though modern times have seen very innovative creations through stone tiles, these old edifices still have an enduring majesty. Here are five architectural wonders that were built with limestone.
1. Pyramids of Giza.
When you think of architectural wonders and limestone, one awesome site stands out from the rest, and that is the Pyramids of Giza. Found in the middle of the desert in Egypt, these architectural miracles were built on the hands and backs of slaves and have survived the test of time. What we have now is just a shadow of the original glory that the Pharaohs chose to spend eternity in. Imagine these perfectly symmetrical buildings standing metres in the air, but having perfectly polished sides. As limestone does not really do well with acid rain, it has slowly eroded into the jagged edges that it has now. Nevertheless, these pyramids are incredibly beautiful and a sight to behold. It must be on everyone’s bucket lists.
2. St. Mary’s.
Near the Thames River in Ontario, Canada and nicknamed the “Stone City”, one look at this quaint and quiet town and you will see just how beautiful limestone can be in constructing buildings. St. Mary’s boasts of many beautiful buildings that have limestone facades. Notable buildings are St. Mary’s Town Hall and St. Mary’s House. These are beautifully wrought out buildings that speak of old world charm which is now so refreshing from the glare of all things steel and concrete.
3. Guelph.
Also found in Ontario, this beautiful town is replete with many buildings that tower high above the sky, a little yellowish in hue, because of limestone. There are three particular buildings in Guelph that give this picturesque city a reason to boast, and these are the Old City Hall, the McCrae House, and the Church of our Lady of Immaculate. All three buildings are also built of limestone and reminiscent of 19th century Europe. You’ll feel like you stepped back in time whenever you visit Guelph.
4. Boone County Courthouse.
Listed in the National Register for Historic Places, this beautiful building is reminiscent of the buildings and architecture of the Renaissance. And it’s façade obviously boasts of just how usable limestone can be. Truly, this is one of Madison County’s greatest assets.
5. St. Paul’s Pro-Cathedral.
Even fire could not keep this architectural wonder from being admired and used as it is today. Found in London, this Anglican church was burnt time and time again and has been rebuilt each time after that. Now it has been reconstructed with limestone and has 3 floors and is a great tourist attraction. This is one architectural beauty that will stand the test of time. Limestone is a very versatile and is commonly used in constructing buildings. Obviously, it is used in many different ways and means that can add beauty and value to any façade.