A distinctive building, monument, or natural feature immediately identifies a place in the minds of visitors and locals. That feature is a landmark. It serves as both navigation aid and symbolic emblem.

Landmarks attract sightseeing, photography, and gathering. They appear on postcards, marketing materials, and souvenir designs. Some are protected historic structures; others are modern buildings that have gained iconic status. Crowds at the most famous landmarks can make the experience feel shared with the world.

Lesser-known landmarks reward travelers who move beyond the primary list. Whether grand or modest, a landmark gives a destination a recognizable face. Standing in front of one often supplies the confirming moment that a traveler has arrived.

The silhouette of a landmark can be enough to name the city.