Famous Uses of Marble Throughout History
Marble Has Shaped History
Marble has been used throughout history to create some of the most famous pieces and monuments throughout history. You might be surprised to find that some of the most recognizable monuments throughout history were
1. The Taj Mahal
Most people don’t know that the stone that the Taj Mahal is almost entirely clad in is marble. The ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of Yamuna was commissioned by the emperor, Shah Jahan. It is estimated that the cost of the monument was around 32 million rupees.
2. Odeon of Herodes Atticus Theatre
Even the Ancient Greeks knew the value of creating monuments out of marble. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus Theatre was comprised almost entirely of marble almost 5,000 years ago. That means marble has been used to make great monuments for thousands of years.
3. The Washington Monument
The obelisk that shows the might and unity of America is made of three different types of marble and is one of the most widely visited monuments in all of America. It’s one of the most famous buildings in all of the United States.
4. The Supreme Court Building
To house one of the highest offices in all of the United States, a 43 million dollar monument. The principle material was marble, and the government spent over 3 million dollars on the marble material alone. Since then, the Supreme Court has used the building to preside over cases under the ceiling of elegant, natural marble. Three million dollars worth, to be exact.
5. The Statue of David
Michelangelo knew how elegant and powerful marble was when he made the Statue of David, which is widely regarded as the best sculpture ever created. This elegant statue is 17 feet tall and was created during the renaissance, depicting the biblical hero David.
6. The Pantheon
One of the world’s largest concrete domes, the Pantheon was constructed from marble in 125 A.D.. From then on, it has been in constant use, even today, where people visit it to view its historical importance and breathtaking columns.
7. Tower of Pisa
Because of the lean that it has, this monument is the go-to place for tourists looking ridiculous taking pictures that make it look like they’re holding it up. What most people don’t know is that the Tower of Pisa was actually constructed from marble, limestone, and quartz, three of the most elegant, resilient natural stones in the world.
Marble Has Historical Importance
Next time you see one of the monuments above, you’ll know that it has a special place in marble’s history. Because of its extensive use, we have marble everywhere today. From our fountains to our countertops, it’s one of the most widely used stones in interior and exterior design. If it hadn’t been used so widely in our history, it might not be so popular today. So next time you’re admiring your countertop, be sure to thank the Ancient Greeks and everyone inbetween that made marble the interior design craze that it is today.
