Chicago's buildings were designed in a wide variety of architectural styles over the centuries. The Chicago Historic Resources Survey, completed in 1995, was a decade-long research effort by the City of Chicago to analyze the historic and architectural importance of all buildings constructed in the city prior to 1940. By today, 259 Chicago Landmarks have been designated by the City Council, including 217 individual designations, 38 landmark districts, and four district extensions, totaling 6,500 properties. Experience the history in Chicago's unique architecture beginning by the Millennium Park, with 25 acres of awe-inspiring landscape, breathtaking architecture and an iconic display of public art. Cool off by splashing around in Millennium Park’s Crown Fountain, a shallow reflecting pool bookended by 50-foot towers. Or take a picture in front of Cloud Gate, a bean-shaped structure that’s become Chicago’s signature landmark.