In Photos: Awesome Glass Buildings Around the World

Louvre Pyramid, France

The pyramid, made with 673 glass panes, serves as the main entrance to the famed Louvre Museum in Paris. The pyramid was designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. Measured from the base, the pyramid is 16 feet (4.8 meters) wide and 71 feet (21.6 meters) high. Nearly 100 tons of steel and 105 tons of aluminum support the structure.

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The Shard, England

A relatively recent addition to the London skyline, the Shard is also the tallest building in the European Union. The spire-like structure has a total surface area of 602,779 square feet (56,000 square meters) and is made of 11,000 panes of glass. Nearly 95 percent of the building has been constructed using recycled materials.

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City Hall Rotunda, US

A landmark building in the city of San Jose, California, U.S., the Rotunda is 110 feet (34 meters) high and serves as the entrance to City Hall. Its shape is reminiscent of a planetarium and the building is distinguished by external glass walls. The ceremonial entrance is usually out of bounds to the public, but can be rented out for events.

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