Architecture

Constructed in fits and starts between 1848 and 1884, the Washington Monument officially opened to the public on October 9, 1888. At the time, it was tallest free-standing masonry structure in the world. This year's birthday is especially meaningful: The pencil-shaped structure took quite a shaking during the earthquake in August 2011.

Some of us wondered whether Washington's Egyptian-inspired monument would topple. But daredevil engineers who scaled the stone walls have pronounced her remarkably healthy for her age. Although still closed to visitors, the Washington Monument isn't going anywhere soon.

More:

• Washington Monument external earthquake inspection, in the Washington Post
• Washington Monument Facts

_{Photo � Jackie Craven}