All World Expo locations since 1851
For more than a century and a half, global citizens have congregated at World Expos to celebrate human achievement, explore pressing issues of the day, and experience the cultural expressions of people from all corners of the world. The World Expo has seen 168 years of transformation, its locations stretching from Scandinavia's bracing climes to the sun-baked Middle East plains, each offering a distinct and compelling backdrop to this illustrious event.
World Expos are unique in their scale and duration, with each typically lasting six months and drawing tens of millions of visitors who explore hundreds of pavilions. These pavilions are as diverse as the countries they represent, showcasing everything from technological innovations to artistic masterpieces.
This guide offers an in-depth exploration of all World Expo locations from the inaugural event in London's Crystal Palace in 1851 until 2023 when this page is published.
London
London, the capital of England, has played host to the World Expo twice. Its first endeavor was the inaugural 1851 event held in the iconic Crystal Palace, a remarkable cast-iron and plate-glass structure. As it was known, the Great Exhibition showcased technological advances from across the globe, drawing an impressive six million visitors.
The city's second stint came in 1862 at a different venue - the South Kensington Museum, now known as the Victoria and Albert Museum. It expanded on its predecessor's theme of global innovation, placing emphasis on the arts and design. An estimated six million people were again drawn to London to witness the marvels of modern technology and culture.
In terms of World Expos, London set a precedent, not just as the inaugural host but also as an example of how to successfully bring together nations under one roof for cultural exchange and showcasing human advancement. It's a city where every corner tells a story, making it a fitting location for such global gatherings.
