University Hall and John Harvard Statue, Boston

University Hall is a real showstopper of a building, determined to stand out in the crowd. Its neoclassical design is the architectural equivalent of a grand entrance – large, imposing, and so symmetrical that it's almost showing off. This beauty was built between 1813 and 1815 from white granite, a real rebel compared to its red brick buddies – Massachusetts Hall and Harvard Hall. And if you need more proof of its superstar status, it's been designated a National Historical Landmark.

Another superstar attraction here – found in the yard – is the John Harvard Statue. This is the spot where every hopeful Harvard student makes a pilgrimage for that classic photo op. They'll strike a pose next to good ol' John, the guy who's always good for a bit of luck. Legend has it that rubbing his shiny shoe brings you good fortune, and who wouldn't want a piece of that?

The statue, designed by Daniel Chester French, proudly flaunts an inscription that reads, 'John Harvard, Founder of Harvard College, 1638'. Sounds cool, except that none of it is actually true!

First off, the statue doesn't depict John Harvard because nobody really knows what he looked like; it's just some random student who's been hitting the books a little too hard. Second, John Harvard wasn't the founder of the college; he was more like the first generous donor to it, who chipped in back in 1638. And if you want to split hairs, the college was actually founded two years earlier, in 1636. So, in essence, this statue is known for telling three big lies...

It's almost as if the Harvard symbol is out here playing a prank on everyone, giving a cheeky wink to the university's motto, "Veritas," which means "truth." But hey, who needs the truth when you've got a shiny shoe to rub for good luck?