Limestone is very common in architecture, especially in Europe and North America. Many landmarks across the world, including the Great Pyramid and its associated complex in Giza, Egypt, are made of limestone. Limestone is readily available and relatively easy to cut into blocks or more elaborate carvings. It is also long-lasting and exposure resitant. However, as it is a very heavy material, it therefore is making it impractical for tall buildings.

Limestone was most popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Train stations, banks and other structures from that era are normally made of limestone. It is also used as a facade on some skyscrapers, but only in thin plates for covering, rather than solid blocks. Many famous buildings world-wide are built of limestone.