An updated ranking of the world’s most beautiful buildings features five structures that reward visitors with extraordinary forms, materials, and engineering, according to TimeOut. Two new additions join the list: a brutalist landmark in London and an art museum perched on a hilltop in South Korea.
Taj Mahal, India
The list opens with the Taj Mahal, built between 1632 and 1653. The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ordered the mausoleum constructed after the death of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, and the building took 22 years to complete. Its beauty, the source notes, is said to have been inspired by Mumtaz herself.
The English poet Sir Edwin Arnold wrote that the Taj Mahal was not simply an architectural structure like other buildings, but the proud passion of imperial love made manifest in living stone.
Barbican Estate, United Kingdom
Built between 1965 and 1976, the Barbican Estate in London is one of the most prominent examples of brutalism, a style that emerged in the 1950s defined by raw concrete, sharp geometric forms, and massive structures. The complex initially provoked shock rather than admiration, and its austere aesthetic still divides opinion. Even so, the scale and ambition of the project earned it Grade II listed status in 2001. A contrast between its concrete terraces and surrounding lakes and ornamental pools has made the grounds a popular place to walk.
Hallgrimskirkja, Iceland
The main church of Reykjavik, built between 1945 and 1986, can at first glance resemble a space rocket. The largest Lutheran church in Iceland, its facade blends modernism and expressionism. Lead architect Gudjon Samuelsson drew inspiration from Icelandic nature: the sloping lines of the facade echo frozen lava flows, and light-coloured concrete allows the building to sit harmoniously against the surrounding mountains.
Sagrada Familia, Spain
Construction on Antoni Gaudi’s basilica has continued since 1882, now passing the 140-year mark. In February 2026, exterior work on the Tower of Jesus Christ was completed, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudi’s death. Work on the Glory Facade may continue for roughly another ten years. The building already draws visitors with its combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, vivid stained glass, tree-like columns, and a famous magic square.
SAN Museum, South Korea
Opened in 2013 in Gangwon Province, the SAN Museum takes its name from the concepts of Space, Art, and Nature. Japanese minimalist architect Tadao Ando designed the complex on a hilltop. Visitors follow a winding path from the entrance through a flower garden to a permanent installation called GROUND, created by British sculptor Antony Gormley. The site also includes a sculpture garden, a water garden, a stone garden, the main museum building, and a pavilion by American artist James Turrell, all set among forested hills.
