Dozens of comparsas moved through the streets accompanied by drums and vibrant costumes, dancing to the rhythms of candombe , a musical and dance tradition recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The sound of percussion echoed across the neighbourhoods, transforming public space into a living stage for collective memory and expression.

Participants and organisers emphasised the role of the drum as a symbol of continuity and resistance. Members of the Ansina Tradición comparsa noted that percussion has been central to preserving African heritage since colonial times, when enslaved communities used music as a way to sustain identity and solidarity. Today, that legacy is passed on as a form of education for younger generations.

The celebration also honours San Baltazar, a figure associated with Afro-descendant devotion in the region. His presence reflects the blending of Catholic traditions with African cultural practices that emerged during the colonial period, reinforcing a distinct Afro-Uruguayan identity that remains visible in music, dance and ritual.

The parade traditionally concludes at the House of Afro-Uruguayan Culture in Palermo, a site of remembrance for communities displaced during the 19th century. Organisers describe the event not only as a cultural celebration, but also as a statement of visibility and belonging, linking Uruguay’s past to ongoing efforts across Latin America to recognise and protect Afro-descendant heritage.

“We jointly celebrate the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening; we write a new chapter in this ancient nation's history,” El-Sisi said in his address. “This stands as the world's largest museum dedicated to one civilisation – Egypt's eternal civilisation whose splendour never fades.”

The president emphasised the role of international collaboration in bringing the decades-long project to fruition, highlighting Japan's significant support.

The Grand Egyptian Museum, located near the Giza Pyramids, is considered the largest cultural structure built in the 21st century. Although first conceived in the 1990s, the foundation stone was laid in 2002 under the supervision of UNESCO.

Designed as one of the most advanced and expansive museum complexes globally, GEM aims to welcome seven million visitors annually in its initial phase, targeting a total of 30 million visitors by 2031.

According to a  quote  made by Palczewski from Theresa VanWormer's review of the importance of statues, the carvings “Guide people in their thinking about those facts from the past, how to act in the present, and what possible futures to seek… they also direct people's views of themselves.”

However, certain statues stand out amidst these monumental creations through their immense size and splendour. Here is a compilation of some of the world's most towering statues, guided by insights from  World Visualized , as highlighted by The Atlantic.

Statue of Unity in India

The tallest statue in the world is the Statue of Unity. It is a tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India's first Deputy Prime Minister. Located in Gujarat, this colossal structure stands at an impressive 597 feet and 182 metres, surpassing the previous record holder, the Spring Temple Buddha in China.

Spring Temple Buddha in China

The Spring Temple Buddha located in Henan Province, China, held the title of the world's tallest statue for over a decade. This astonishing structure stands at 420 feet and 128 metres. According to  The Economic Times , it was built at $55 million in 2002 after the Taliban destroyed the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan.

Laykyun Sekkya in Myanmar

In the city of Monywa, Myanmar stands the Laykyun Sekkya, a massive Buddha statue that reaches a height of 380 feet and 115.8 metres. This impressive structure has 31 levels inside, representing the stages of life in Buddhist belief.

Vishwas Swaroopam in India

The "Statue of Belief," also known as "Vishwas Swaroopam," is a majestic representation of Lord Shiva located in Rajasthan, India. It was crafted by the skilled sculptor Naresh Kumawat and was unveiled to the public on October 29, 2022. This sculpture stands as the world's highest statue of Shiva, measuring 347 feet and 106 metres.

Ushiku Daibutsu in Japan

Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, the Ushiku Daibutsu is a bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha that stands at an impressive 330 feet and 100 metres. This statue was built to commemorate the birth of Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.

Guishan Guanyin in China

China boasts the gargantuan Guishan Guanyin, a statue of the Bodhisattva Guanyin that reaches a height of 325 feet and 99 metres. The government of Ningshan County, supported by contributions from local enterprises and faith-based groups, allocated an investment of 260 million yuan (approximately USD36 million) to finalise the construction in 2009.