North America

On this day: Cornerstone laid for US Capitol

On this day in 1793, the cornerstone was laid for the US Capitol building, by nine Freemasons in full regalia - George Washington among them. The city's quadrants meet here, and the city was configured around the building.

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Thursday, 18th September 2014

On this day: Pittsburgh Civic Arena Opened

On September 17, 1961, the world's first retractable dome stadium opened in Pittsburgh, PA. Originally built as an opera venue, it also hosted boxing, concerts and other entertainment events - with the roof open whenever the weather permitted. In 1967…

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Wednesday, 17th September 2014

On this day: Ground was Broken for The Pentagon

Mid way through WWII, on this day in 1941, ground was broken for the Pentagon, the headquarters for the US Department of Defense. Thirteen years ago it was targeted as part of the 9/11 attacks and a section of the…

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Thursday, 11th September 2014

Transporter Bridges

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, almost two dozen transporter bridges were built around the world. They feature a high gantry - tall enough to allow ships to pass below - carrying a gondola to transport foot passengers…

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Thursday, 4th September 2014

On this day: Google was Incorporated

Google (a company that you may have heard us mention on this site) was formally incorporated on this day in 1998, making the transition from Sergey Brin and Larry Page's research project to an official business. (Although many people prefer…

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Thursday, 4th September 2014

On this day: First Calgary Stampede Rodeo

On September 2, 1912, the first rodeo events known as the Calgary Stampede were held by promoter Guy Weadick. A few years later it became an annual affair, and it is now a highlight of the city's calendar, with the…

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Tuesday, 2nd September 2014

Welcome to Google Sightseeing!

Google Sightseeing takes you on a tour of the world as seen from satellite or street views using Google Maps. Our team of authors present weird and wonderful sights as suggested by readers.

Like this site? We published a photo book of the best entries, you should buy a copy.