Difference Between Landmark and Monument

We all have features that we use to identify a place or region. And these could either be landmarks or monuments. For instance, the Eiffel Tower is highly recognized even by those people who have never set foot in Paris. Similarly, the Lincoln Memorial is widely known and recognized globally. Most, people, however, barely differentiate landmarks and monuments, with most using them as synonyms. In this article, we will look at the difference between the two. 

What is Landmark?

This is a recognized artificial or natural feature that stands out from other environmental features and visible from long distances. Landmarks are often used as navigation tools. This also applies to smaller features and features that are used as national and local symbols. 

Landmarks can be anything ranging from buildings, waterfalls, mountains and even rivers. 

Among the most renowned landmarks include:

• The Eiffel Towers- Paris
• Angkor- Cambodia
• Burj Khalifa- Dubai
• The Great Wall of China- China
• Taj Mahal- India

Monument

We have all come across different monuments in different locations globally. Although highly recognizable, they can go unrecognized sometimes especially when in a new location. 

What is a monument?

This is a structure that was erected to commemorate an event or a person and has now gained relevancy to a social group in major ways. This can be cultural heritage or historic times due to historical, technical, artistic, political and architectural importance. 

Among the most renowned monuments include:

• Statue of Liberty- USA
• Colosseum- Italy
• Notre- Dame- France
• Gateway Arch- Missouri
• Jewish Museum Berlin- Berlin

Is a monument a landmark? 

Yes. A monument can be a landmark. Most monuments are used as landmarks globally since it’s easier to identify a location based on the monument. 

What is considered a landmark? 

For a feature to be considered a landmark, it has to have a recognized artificial or natural feature that stands out from other environmental features and visible from long distances

What makes a building a landmark?

A building can be a landmark if it has a special aesthetic interest, historical or special value in cultural, heritage or developmental characteristics in a certain region. 

Similarities between Landmark and Monument

• Both function as attraction as well as directional sites 

Differences between Landmark and Monument

Definition

A landmark refers to a recognized artificial or natural feature that stands out from other environmental features and visible from long distances. On the other hand, a monument refers to a structure that was erected to commemorate an event or a person and has now gained relevancy to a social group in major ways. 

Landmark VS. Monument: Comparison Table

Summary of Landmark vs. Monument

A landmark refers to a recognized artificial or natural feature that stands out from other environmental features and visible from long distances. On the other hand, a monument refers to a structure that was erected to commemorate an event or a person and has now gained relevancy to a social group in major ways. Despite the differences, a monument can be a landmark if it’s used to identify a location based on the location.

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