The LEGO Architecture Landmark Series started in 2008 and consists primarily of models that represent the world's most famous structures. Initially the sets were focused on major cities in the United States such as models of the Sears Tower, John Hancock Center, the Empire State Building, and the Seattle Space Needle followed by international landmarks including Burj Khalifa, Brandenburg Gate, the Sydney Opera House and dozens more. Within the subtheme the scale of the sets differ widely.
2012 LEGO Sets
2012 was a very important year for LEGO license themes, namely, the contract with Lucasfilm was renewed to extend Star Wars sets until at least 2022. The LEGO Group also celebrated its 80th anniversary in August of that year. 2012 also marked the year for one of the largest number of new and important themes being released which included The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, Marvel Super Heroes, DC Super Heroes, Monster Fighters, Friends and LEGO Friends. With the introduction of all these new themes LEGO did discontinue a number of beloved themes in 2012 which included Alien Conquest, Atlantis, Pharaoh's Quest, Kingdoms and Harry Potter which did make a return six-years later, thankfully.