Mathematical places to visit

Question

There are certain buildings and places on this planet where mathematicians can find delight because of the history, the art, the architecture, and for other reasons. For example, the Alhambra with its heavy use of geometric patterns. Or, perhaps, going to the leaning tower of Pisa and playing games with calculating where its shadow will be cast. Clearly, there are many places with historical or related significance to those interested in mathematics. I would enjoy hearing about some from people here -- in particular, I would love to hear about any places in the middle east.

Answer 1

For sake of pure history associated with Göttingen it should be a Mecca for any mathematicians. I also remember once my Calculus professor talk about an auditorium for acoustics where if you whisper at one end and if your friend is standing at the foci, then she can hear you. (This blog discusses it a bit.)

As far as architecture inspired by mathematics:

• Double spiral staircase in Vatican as mentioned by the visitor here

  

• Islamic designs of geometry as well as Alhambra

• This site also poses the interesting question: Why are fortresses often pentagons?

However, the go-to-guide would be Jane Burry's The New Mathematics of Architecture (Google images of some of its content)

Answer 2

See the Mathematical Tourist column, by Ivars Peterson, at the MAA site, for a large number of suggestions.

See also Alexander Hahn's book, Mathematical Excursions to the World's Great Buildings, https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691145204/mathematical-excursions-to-the-worlds-great-buildings