JAKARTA - Countries can be formed by many factors. Starting from food, culture, environment, and others. However, it is architecture that defines place in the most different ways. What distinguishes architecture from construction is the art and design involved in building something that not only meets practical requirements, but also fulfills expressive and aesthetic goals. According to Monkey Insider, the global architectural services market is estimated to be worth USD376 billion by 2023, which is expected to grow further by 4.8% per year to reach USD523 billion by 2030. This projection was made by Research and Markets in one of their recent publications. Much of this demand is driven by high levels of urbanization in countries such as Brazil, India, and South Korea, due to the growing need for smart homes. On the other hand, we have witnessed some astounding architectural marvels in the 21st century, adding to the wealth of architecture that dates back to ancient times, and is still well-preserved. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building in the world, and the Museum of the Future, are some of the best modern architectural works of the 21st century, while the Colosseum, the world's largest amphitheater built between 70 and 72 AD, still attracts over 6 million tourists every year.

Here are 10 countries with the best architecture in the world.

10. Russia

Photo/Reuters

Score: 3

Russian architecture is known to be associated with Byzantine revival, Moscow, and neoclassical styles, with some Soviet-era influences as well. One of the country's most stunning landmarks is the Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg, which drew inspiration from the Rocco movement in Italy during the 18th century, with its light and pale blue colors - signifying a cheerful secular theme.

9. Turki Foto/Reuters

Score: 4

Located between Asia and Europe, Turkey has the status of a cultural melting pot. This fusion of cultures has allowed the country to have a magnificent setting in terms of architecture.

Historically, the architecture was heavily influenced by the Suljuk and Ottoman dynasties, with mosques and tombs being the remaining landmarks of Turkish cities. However, there has been a shift towards modern, nationalist architecture since the country became a republic in 1923.

8. Brazil

Score: 4

Brazilian architecture blends pre-Columbian indigenous influences and the baroque style brought by Portuguese colonizers. However, the modern style began to emerge, starting with the government building the new capital, Brasilia, in a barren area. Today, buildings built with concrete and glass dot the skyline. Prominent futurist architectural marvels include the President's residence, and the Attorney General's office.

7. India

Score: 4

India has a diverse history and culture that is reflected in its architecture. Its architecture is heavily influenced by Mughal, Rajput, and Indo-Saracenic variations. The Taj Mahal in Agra, which is a symbol of love and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is annually visited by between 7-8 million tourists. Chandigarh, in Punjab, is another region in India that excites fans of modern architecture. The Indian government, after independence in 1947, commissioned Le Corbusier, a Swiss modernist, to design a progressive and modern city. It was the first planned city in India.

6. China

Score: 4

China is one of the top countries in architecture. It is home to one of the largest landmarks in the world, the Great Wall of China. Other notable architectural works in the country include the Temple of Heaven and Tiananmen Square in Beijing China is also known for its palaces and temples that focus on bilateral symmetry, open spaces, and mythology.

5. Greece

Score: 5

Greece is the fifth best country in the world for architecture. The city of Athens is home to some of the most famous ruins in the world, dating back to 400 BC. Famous architectural wonders in Greece include the Parthenon, and the temples of Zeus and Hephaestus. A visit to Greece is a taste of what life was like in ancient times. This is the reason why it remains a popular tourist destination, especially for those fascinated by medieval architecture.

4. Spain

Score: 5

Islam, Christianity, the Renaissance and other foreign influences have shaped Spain's diverse architectural landmarks. It was the second country to develop Romanesque architecture. Gothic culture flourished in Spain during the 13th century and its architectural flavors are found throughout the country. La Sagrada Familia, the Guggenheim Museum, Plaza de Espana, and the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia are some of the most famous architectural works in Spain.

3. Uni Emirat Arab

Photo/Reuters

Score: 5

The United Arab Emirates is a stunning work of modern architecture. Dubai, in particular, has transformed from a barren desert land into a major international business center that houses skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. The newly designed Museum of the Future in the shape of a torus is an incredible piece of architecture that focuses on the unknown future.

2. Italy

Score: 6

Italy comes in second on our list of countries with the best architecture. Italy is the homeland of Palladianism, which inspired neoclassical architecture. Ancient Rome is credited with the development of arches and domes, which are considered significant achievements in architecture and construction. Rome and Florence attract tourists from all over the world and showcase their architecture and culture. Some of Italy's major landmarks are the Colosseum, Florence Cathedral, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Milan's Duomo.

1. United States of America

Score: 14

Photo/Reuters

The United States is the best architecture country in the world. The US has the largest number of cities covered. Miami Beach is popular for having the largest collection of Art Deco architecture. Columbus in Indiana, which ranks sixth in the country in terms of architectural innovation and design, is home to at least 70 buildings designed by modern architects in the 1950s and 1960s. The Empire State Building, Gateway Arch, Denver Art Museum, Hoover Dam, and Washington Monument are some of the architectural landmarks of the United States.