The 'world's biggest structure' made of tonnes of gold that stands at huge 112 metres

There are some massive structures in the world, but very few are made of gold. From ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, it’s rare to find buildings constructed using precious metals. But there is one, which is believed to be the largest gold-covered structure on Earth, and it stands 112 metres tall.

The Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar is thought to contain between six and 60 tonnes of gold, according to Fodor's Travel Guide. The reason the exact figure is unknown is because gold has been added to the monument over hundreds of years by Buddhist devotees, monarchs, and visitors, making it impossible to calculate the total amount. The pagoda was built on Singuttara Hill and stands 367 feet (112 metres) high, rising over 560 feet above sea level.

It dominates the Yangon skyline and is considered the most sacred Buddhist site in Myanmar, according to the pagoda’s official website.

The structure is covered in gold plates and topped with a crown containing 4,531 diamonds, including one that weighs 72 carats.

The pagoda also houses relics said to include strands of the Buddha’s hair, along with other artefacts linked to earlier Buddhas.

According to UNESCO, the wider site covers more than 46 hectares and includes temples, statues, bells, shrines, and four main stairways aligned with the cardinal directions.

The layout is based on ancient Hindu-Buddhist cosmology, with many visitors walking clockwise around the stupa as part of religious practice.

The main structure sits on a brick plinth, completely covered in genuine gold.

A tradition of gold donation began in the 15th century, when Queen Shin Sawbu reportedly gave her body weight in gold.

That practice continues today, with many contributing gold as a form of devotion.

The monument also plays an important role in community life.

According to the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees, it is visited daily by worshippers who take part in prayer, meditation, and ceremonial offerings.

The site also includes public areas, viewing terraces, and religious halls used for prayer and events.

Although its exact age is uncertain, local records suggest the Shwedagon Pagoda is around 2,500 years old, making it one of the oldest religious monuments still in active use.