20 Famous Walls Around the World

Last Updated on July 19, 2024

From the majestic Great Wall of China to the poignant remnants of the Berlin Wall, these iconic barriers tell stories of division, defense, and cultural significance. Here’s a guide to the world’s most famous walls.

Since ancient times, societies have always had a fascination for safeguarding their ideologies, cultures, and political conquests. Many of these did so by erecting walls around their colonies or kingdoms. But in more recent times, walls have become so much more than safe-keeps. Today, walls are an embodiment of societal beliefs, memorials, as well as structures of art.

But regardless of their purpose, walls are beautiful structures that dominate the landscape wherever they stand. Walls are meant to stand the test of time, and often more precisely: invaders and trespassers. In this case, we’re going to take you on a journey around the world, visiting some of the most impenetrable barriers, as well as a few sacred and even eccentric ones in between. Here are some of the most famous walls around the world.

---

Famous Walls Around the World

1. The Great Wall of China — Beijing, China

Erected in the 7^th century BC, the Great Wall of China stands firmly as arguably the most well known wall in the world. The 5,500-mile partition spans the east-to-west northern border of China, and was originally built to protect the empire from intruders as a first line of defense. Overtime, it has served as a border control, allowing for imposition of duties as goods passed through on the Silk Road. Now, the wall claims fame as one of the world’s most popular must-see destinations and is an essential stop in any Beijing itinerary. You can climb the Great Wall of China with an informative guide for a fantastic experience and rich historical insights.

---

2. The Western Wall — Jerusalem, Israel

The Western Wall – located at the base of Temple Mount – has served as a Jewish prayer site and pilgrimage destination since as far back as the 4^th century. Built by King Herod in 19 BCE, it is believed to originally have been constructed as a part of the Jewish Temple’s courtyard. A common — and relatively modern — tradition (the earliest mention of which dates back to the 1700s) is for visitors to place a note into the stone cracks – in fact, more than a million are wedged into the wall each year. In recent times, it is often called the “Wailing Wall” because for centuries Jewish mourners have gathered there to lament the loss of their temple. On this half-day tour, you’ll visit the Western Wall and explore other renowned Holy Land sites, including the Garden of Gethsemane.

---

3. Aurelian Walls — Rome, Italy

Built sometime during the third century AD, the Aurelian walls surround the Seven Hills of Rome, as well as the Campus Martius and the Trastevere district. Extending 12 miles, the brick-and-mortar barriers were constructed as a defense to the ever-expanding city. Since they served as Rome’s main fortification up until the 19th centuries, visitors can still view the walls as they remain in relatively good condition. Visiting the Aurelian walls is just one of the many things to do in Rome, check out the full list for more ideas. For example, on this relaxing Golf Cart Tour, you can enjoy a photo stop at the Aurelian Walls, gain entry to the Roman catacombs, and ride along the famous Appian Way.

---

4. Walls of Ávila — Avila, Spain

Ávila’s Romanesque walls still surround the old quarter of the Spanish city just like they have since they were constructed between the 11^th and 14^th centuries. The picturesque wall wraps up and around the medieval town with its nine gates and 88 towers. Tourists can even ascend and traverse part of the fortification, from which they are able to peer from lookouts and into neighboring gardens. Then, at night, the walls light up, making them a worthwhile sight no matter the time of day. At just 1 hour away from the country capital, Madrid, you can easily visit the Avila Walls as part of your Spain itinerary. If you don’t have transport, you can still explore two of Spain’s oldest cities in one day with this luxury bus tour from Madrid, visiting Avila and Segovia.

---

5. The Berlin Wall — Berlin, Germany

Among the most famous walls in the world, most people inevitably think of the Berlin Wall. From 1961 to 1989, the 96-mile divider claimed to protect against fascist elements, and completely separated East and West Berlin. While intact, the partition represented many things: a death strip due to some 100-200 trespassers who were killed; a canvas for urban art expression (on the western side); and a metaphor for the Iron Curtain.

When, in 1989, the wall finally came down, Germans from both sides rejoiced celebrating their unity. Now, most of the structure has been demolished apart from three sections, which hardly resemble their original appearance. To discover in-depth history from experienced tour guides and historians—offering insights you won’t find online—consider booking this affordable 2-hour walking tour.

---

6. The Walls of Constantinople — Istanbul, Turkey

Originally built by Constantine the Great, Constantinople’s walls consist of a series of defenses that once protected what we know today as Istanbul. The fortification was erected in the 4th and 5th centuries to shield the then Roman Empire’s capital, and held off many attacks — despite the advent of gunpowder-packed canons — until the Ottomans took over the Istanbul in 1453. While many portions of the wall are still visible, much of it has been dismantled during the last couple hundred years as the city grew. Visiting the walls is definitely one of the best things to do in Istanbul. To learn more about The Walls of Constantinople, consider booking a guided tour that offers deeper insights into this iconic landmark.

---

7. Sacsayhuamán — Cusco, Peru

Given its location high above the Peru’s Cusco, this thousand-year-old walled complex is often referred to as a fortress. Not only was it the likely site of battles, but some believe it may have even been a location for rituals and ceremonial activities. While parts of the polished-stone block structure remain intact, much of it was removed when the Spaniards sought to build up Spanish Cusco.

These days, Sacsayhuamán has received UNESCO heritage status, and is the location for the annual winter solstice festival. It’s one of the best places to visit in Cusco, so make sure you don’t miss it! One of the best ways to learn about the impressive Incan architecture of Sacsayhuamán is to book this expert-led guided tour on an exciting excursion from Cusco.

---

8. Hadrian’s Wall — Brampton, UK

Nearly 2000 years old, Hadrian’s Wall was the first fortification built across Great Britain, and was the most heavily fortified border in the empire. Spanning about 45 miles, the wall also served as a custom’s post, where taxes could be imposed. Now, while much of the barrier no longer exists, travelers can still visit the unguarded UNESCO heritage site, walking or cycling the Hadrian’s Wall Path. For an in-depth, immersive experience, this tour offers profound insights and a wealth of historical details about the wall, a significant site where two cultures collided.

---

9. Gum Wall — Seattle, USA

Reinventing what makes a wall attraction-worthy, is Seattle’s gum wall. Originally started in 1993 as a custom among patrons of Unexpected Productions, the wall has turned into a popular spot, a must-see on any Seattle itinerary. Now, people create images out of their gum and even spell out words, transforming the tradition into a semi-sick form of street art. If you’re near Post Alley and Pike Place Market, stop by, but perhaps bring some hand sanitizer for good measure. You can also consider booking a guided tour of Pike Place Market, where you’ll have a stop at the famous Gum Wall.

---

10. The Lennon Wall — Prague, Czech Republic

Like the Gum Wall, Prague’s Lennon Wall didn’t start out as anything particularly special. But beginning in the 1980s, it became a magnet for John Lennon-inspired everything – from artwork to song lyrics. During Communist times, the wall was even a source of conflict, with authorities claiming the free-spirited students (and supporters of the wall) to be crazy and agents of Western Capitalism. Now in constant evolution, the graffiti-ed canvas remains a symbol of the messages that John Lennon’s music espoused. On almost any guided tour in Prague, you’ll see this wall and learn more about it from experienced guides. Check out the options here.

---

11. Great Zimbabwe Walls, Zimbabwe

Amid the rolling hills of modern-day Masvingo, Zimbabwe, the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe whisper tales of a bygone era. Inhabited from around 1100 C.E., the grand city was the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, a powerful Shona (Bantu) empire. 

Once a hub in a wealthy global trading network, the city connected the Shona to far-flung lands. This is evidenced by the countless pottery from China and Arab coins found within the ruins. However, the city was largely abandoned by the 15th century, possibly due to resource exhaustion and overpopulation. 

The towering walls that remain offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of the Shona people. The walls are located about four hours from the capital, Harare. I recommend taking this guided tour for a unique experience if you are traveling from Harare. However, if you are coming from Bulawayo, the second largest city in Zimbabwe, take this tour instead.

---

12. Walls of Ston, Croatia

Found on the scenic Pelješac Peninsula in southern Croatia, the Walls of Ston are an impressive defensive structure built in the 15th Century. They stretch for 5.5 km between the towns of Ston and Mali Ston. The extensive fortification structure, which includes 40 towers and 5 fortresses, was originally constructed to deter invaders from accessing the precious salt pans.

Today, it’s one of the most famous walls in the world and the second longest in Europe only behind Hadrian’s Wall. Though partially damaged by an earthquake in 1996, the Walls of Ston remain a breathtaking landmark worth a visit. While here, you’ll get stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from above ground. For an elevated experience, I recommend you take this private tour from Dubrovnik. 

---

13. Walls of Troy, Turkey

Located in northwestern Turkey, the Walls of Troy echo the epic tales of Homer’s “Iliad” and the famous Trojan War. The ancient city, with its multi-layered ruins, offers glimpses into centuries of history and myth. The most celebrated section, Troy VIIa, is believed to be the Troy of Homer, dating back to the 13th century BC. 

Portions of these iconic walls still stand, inviting you to step into the past. Today, Troy features a large wooden horse playground for children, shops, and a museum, all adding a commercial twist to this storied archaeological site. The best way of seeing the historical site is by joining this guided tour from Istanbul.

---

14. Wynwood Walls, USA

In the heart of Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood lies an explosion of color and creativity: the Wynwood Walls. Since its inception in 2009, the colorful walls have transformed the area into a vibrant cultural landmark. Showcasing large-scale murals by some of the world’s most renowned street artists, each piece tells a unique story through its colors, patterns, and messages. 

The famous walls also provide an ever-changing canvas for photographers seeking to capture the pulse of contemporary art. Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Miami and 15 minutes from Little Havana, Wynwood is easily accessible by car, Uber, or local bus. But for an elevated experience, I recommend you join this 3-hour food and street art tour.

---

15. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, USA

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall is one of the most poignant monuments in Washington D.C. The memorial honors the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War (1954–75). Created by Maya Lin, it consists of two black granite walls engraved with the names of 58,256 soldiers who died or went missing during the war. 

It is one of the most famous walls in the world and a must-see when you visit the US capital. I recommend you join this guided nighttime tour for an in-depth history about the monument. 

---

16. Diyarbakir City Walls, Turkey

Built under the reign of Roman Emperor Constantius II in the 3rd-4th century AD, these famous walls are found in the heart of Sur in Turkey. The Diyarbakir Walls have a formidable presence thanks to their 5 km circumference, 10-meter height, and up to 5-meter thickness. 

The Diyarbakir Walls are the second widest and longest defensive walls in the world only behind the Great Wall of China. Despite the ravages of recent conflicts between Turkish and Kurdish forces and the significant impact of the 2023 earthquake, the walls remain largely intact. 

The UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to awe many with its enduring grandeur and historical significance, making it a staple on most Turkey itineraries. For a detailed history behind these walls, I recommend joining this all-inclusive guided tour.

---

17. The Atlantic Wall, France

Between 1942 and 1944, Nazi Germany embarked on the ambitious construction of the Atlantic Wall. The famous wall was a sprawling network of coastal defenses spanning 2688 km along continental Europe. Conceived as Hitler’s “Fortress Europe,” it was intended to repel any Allied invasion by sea. 

Despite its formidable appearance, the Atlantic Wall would never be fully completed. Its fate was ultimately eclipsed by the Allies’ invasion in 1944. Today, parts of the wall can be found near Cap Griz Nez in France. I recommend you take this full-day tour from Northern France for an in-depth incursion into the history behind the unfinished wall.

---

18. Belfast Peace Lines, Northern Ireland

In the turbulent streets of Belfast, Northern Ireland, few places epitomize the lingering scars of sectarian conflict like the Peace Lines. Stemming from decades of religious and nationalist tensions, Belfast became a battleground of ideologies and vendettas in the 20th Century Troubles. To help quell the violence, British authorities erected a network of separation barriers starting in 1969. 

The walls aimed at segregating Catholic Republicans from Protestant Loyalists. These famous walls stand over 7 meters tall and stretch up to 5 km in length, effectively partitioning communities in Belfast, Derry, Portadown, and Lurgan. For a deeper understanding of the conflict, I recommend taking this guided tour from Belfast.

---

19. The Korean DMZ, South Korea

The Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a stark reminder of the rivalry between North and South Korea. Stretching 250 kilometers along the 38th Parallel, the DMZ was established in 1953 following an agreement involving North Korea, China, and the UN. This 4 km wide barrier acts as a buffer zone for the two nations. 

Despite its name, the DMZ has seen its share of tensions and incidents, particularly during the turbulent years between 1966 and 1969. The period was marked by skirmishes that claimed the lives of numerous soldiers from both sides, including 43 Americans. 

Despite being largely uneventful over the last 3 decades, the DMZ remains closed to the public. But you can still get up close thanks to several days from Seoul. I recommend this day trip for an in-depth incursion into the history of the relationship between the Koreas. 

---

20. Fort Kumbhalgarh’s Walls, India

Christened as the “Great Wall of India,” Fort Kumbhalgarh’s Walls are a marvelous embodiment of ancient architectural prowess. Located on the rugged Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, the fort was constructed in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. It was also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the valiant King of Mewar. 

The formidable walls, some as thick as 4.5 meters, encircle a sprawling complex dotted with 360 temples of Jain and Hindu origins. These defenses safeguarded the fort until the 19th century, when it transitioned into an open-air museum. 

Stretching over 38 km, Fort Kumbhalgarh has one of the longest wall complexes in India, second only to Chittor Fort in Rajasthan. To learn first-hand the history behind these storied walls, I recommend you take this guided tour from Jodhpur. 

---

Enjoy Your Trip to These Famous Walls!

Are you ready to explore the famous walls around the globe? Hope you found my guide useful! Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my articles to get ideas for your next trip:

• Best Historical Sites in Greece
• Guide to Asmara Eritrea
• Cool things to do in Lima, Peru
• Amazing things to do in Ljubljana
• Best Places to Visit in Armenia
• Cool things to do in Aswan, Egypt
• 2-week Egypt Itinerary
• Two-weeks in China

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.

---

Inspired? Pin it!