5 buildings that were built over centuries

English kings and queens have been crowned here since the rule of William the Conqueror (1066-1087). The history of the building itself goes back way further. In the seventh century, it was the location of a church called "West Minster." Starting in 1245, today's church was built on those foundations. The last extension, the two main towers, was completed in 1745 - exactly 500 years later.

It is not only the symbol of Milan, but also the most important work of Gothic architecture in Italy: the Cathedral-Basilica of Santa Maria Nascente, better known as the Milan Cathedral. Its foundations were laid in 1388. Many architects continued its construction before it was completed in 1965. Altogether, the project took 577 years.

The Cologne Cathedral is a church of superlatives. When it was completed in 1880, it was the tallest building in the world. It was also the largest steel structure of its time, and had the largest free-swinging bell. The cathedral boasts the oldest depiction of a crucified Jesus and the largest choir in Germany. Even its lengthy construction is record-breaking: 632 years.

Crowning Sabikah Hill in Granada, Spain, the Alhambra is one of the world's most important examples of Moorish architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is visited each year by three million people. Given the countless detailed stucco elements and the intricate woodwork of the ceiling, visitors will certainly find that the over 600 years it took to build the "red castle" were well worth it.

No one knows exactly how long it took to build Stonehenge. Researchers believe that the site in southern England was erected in five different building phases, over a period of at least 1,400 years. What remains an even more controversial question is why Stonehenge was actually built in the first place.