A tower is a relatively tall building proportional to the size of its base. It can be free-standing or attached to a building or wall. For example, Leifeng Pagoda, Twin Pagoda Temple, Lookout Tower, Water Tower, Church Tower, etc.).
Towers differ from high-rise buildings in that towers are not built to live or work, but have other functions, mainly through their height.
The form of the tower generally tapers upwards to ensure that the load of the material at height can be supported by the structure below. They must also have sufficient stiffness to avoid bending under applied loads such as strong winds.
Historically, towers were often used for defensive or military purposes, ranging from small towers to ancient watchtowers and large towers that resemble fortresses.
In ancient times, the tower was also used in buildings with the nature of religious activities, such as many tower buildings dedicated to relics.
Abroad, the Romanesque and Gothic periods also incorporated towers into the design of churches and cathedrals, sometimes with spires or flat roofs.
Towers are also often built on notable structures with clocks, such as town halls and other public buildings.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the development of steel as a frame device allowed the tower to be built higher.
Twin Pagoda Temple.