September 29, 2016 | Leave a comment When the tiles of Rio de Janeiro‘s most beautiful staircase are as enchanting as the destinations themselves. The tiles, sent in from around the globe, create an irreplaceable atmosphere of multiculturalism and cause visitors to search for the ones that mean the most to them. Over time, pieces have been vandalized or stolen. Spain, 2004 El Drac, Park Güell, Barcelona Italy, 2008 Bridge of Sighs, Venice Colosseum, Rome Leaning Tower, Pisa Duomo di Milano, Milan Belgium, 2010 The Peeing Boy, Brussels Florida, Forever Clearwater Beach, Tampa Crescent Beach, St. Augustine Some Relevant Fun Facts Antoni Gaudí- this modernist architect hated sharp edges and corners. The Bridge of Sighs- this iconic landmark was named for being the location of the last look of Venice that felons saw before their imprisonment. Colosseum- one of seven Wonders of the New World, this relic of Imperial Rome once hosted gladiator fights and beast hunts, using animals including tigers, lions, bears, elephants, and ostriches. The Leaning Tower of Pisa- ascending this building requires one to be at least eight years old, as we learned on our previous trip to Italy, much to Lillian’s dismay. Milan Cathedral- the building with the most statues in the world, including 135 gargoyles. Started in 1386, construction was not completed until 1965. The Peeing Boy of Brussels- also known as Mannekin Pis, is a replica of the 400 year old original (stolen), and receives several outfit changes per week from his extensive wardrobe. Rio de Janeiro, 2016