5 Structures Around the World that Are Human-Like

Do you know some architectural structures and artistic expressions go beyond the norm, mimicking human forms and reflecting her stories, resilience, and creativity? These human-like buildings and monuments, scattered across the globe, each carry a unique tale and serve a diverse range of purposes, from housing cinemas to offering educational experiences.

Here’s a tour of some of these incredible human-like structures that not only captivate the eye but also ignite the imagination.

The Hand in the Desert – A Symbol of Human Struggle and Triumph

In the stark vastness of the Atacama Desert in Chile stands an awe-inspiring sight: the “Mano de Desierto.” This 33-foot tall sculpture, a creation of Chilean artist Mario Irarrázabal, depicts a hand rising from the sand. Erected in 1987, it symbolizes the vulnerability and enduring spirit of humanity in one of the driest places on Earth. This giant hand reaching towards the sky invites not only contemplation but also serves as a dramatic backdrop for cinema enthusiasts looking for an iconic filming location.

The Giant of Atlas – Living Large

In the serene Dutch countryside of Houthem-Saint-Martin, the “Giant of Atlas” stretches out lazily across the landscape. Created by Belgian artist Jean Op de Laak during the 1960s, this 246-foot tall structure isn’t just a statue; it’s a composite of houses, offices, and even a playground. Visitors can explore this colossal human form, experiencing what it feels like to wander through a gigantic anatomical wonder, making it a perfect educational cinema setting that combines fantasy with reality.

A Stay with the Gods – The Tianzi Hotel

Langfang, China, is home to the Tianzi Hotel, an extraordinary establishment that holds the Guinness World Record for the “biggest image building.” Designed to represent the Chinese gods of fortune, prosperity, and longevity—Fu, Lu, and Shou—this 136.5-foot structure offers guests the unique opportunity to literally sleep in the lap of a deity. This hotel not only provides a memorable stay but acts as a live-in cinema, where every room tells a part of a grander story.

Journey Through the Human Body – Corpus Museum

If you’re fascinated by the human body, the Corpus Museum in Oegstgeest, Netherlands, should be on your must-visit list. Shaped like a giant seated human, this 115-foot structure allows visitors to enter through the knee and embark on an interactive voyage through the various systems and organs of the body. It’s a blend of education and entertainment, making it an ideal spot for thematic educational cinemas or interactive exhibitions.

The Iconic Ypsilanti Water Tower

Known affectionately as the “Phallic Shaped Building,” the Ypsilanti Water Tower in Michigan has been both a source of amusement and an iconic landmark. Constructed in 1890 and standing 132 feet tall, this historic water tower is not only a crucial component of the local water system but also a quirky representation of human-like architecture. It’s a testament to the playful side of design and serves as a curious point of interest for cinema documentaries focusing on unique American architecture.