The 5 Best Historical Places in the World You Have to Visit
Visiting historical places is a great way to gain insight into the world's past and diverse cultures. With so many incredible sites to explore, it cannot be easy to narrow down which ones to prioritize.
But if you're looking for a truly unforgettable experience, here are five of the best historical places in the world that you must visit.
From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the grand cathedrals of Europe, these destinations will provide you with an unforgettable journey through time.
1) Petra, Jordan
One of the most spectacular historical places in the world is Petra, located in Jordan. The ancient city is famous for its massive sandstone structures and long history as an important trading hub.
Inhabited as early as 312 BC, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean kingdom until it was taken by the Romans in 106 AD.
The most impressive site at Petra is the Treasury, a massive building carved into the mountain face. It is estimated to have been constructed between the 1st century BC and 1st century AD, making it one of the oldest monuments in the world.
The stone walls are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Greek mythology figures, such as Medusa and other gods and goddesses.
Visitors to Petra can explore the many sites of this ancient city, including the Monastery, a fortress carved into a cliffside; the Roman Theatre; and the Royal Tombs. The entire city is surrounded by rugged mountains, adding to its stunning beauty.
There is much to explore at Petra, from its amazing monuments to its colourful marketplaces. Visitors will be amazed by the historical significance of this unique place and will not soon forget the incredible sights they experienced during their journey.
2) Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is an awe-inspiring ancient Incan city nestled in the Andes Mountains of Peru.
This incredible UNESCO World Heritage site has been voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and for a good reason! Located at an altitude of 2430 meters above sea level, it is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world.
The Incas built Machu Picchu in the 15th century as a royal estate and spiritual sanctuary, and it was only rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, an American explorer. The ruins offer spectacular views of lush green valleys, terraced hillsides, and towering mountains.
Visitors can explore the ruins and discover many hidden temples, terraces, and buildings, as well as a large collection of stone sculptures and pottery.
It's no wonder that Machu Picchu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Thousands of people visit the site annually to experience its breathtaking beauty and marvel at its incredible history. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to enjoy the scenery, Machu Picchu is unforgettable.
3) Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza is one of the world's most remarkable and popular archaeological sites. Located in the Yucatan peninsula, this magnificent Mayan city has been inhabited since 500 AD and is still awe-inspiring.
The city is most famous for its great pyramid, the Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo). This impressive structure was built to honour the plumed serpent god Kukulkan and consists of four steep sides that join together at the top.
The pyramid is also known for its intricate carvings and for the yearly spring and autumn equinoxes when the sunlight strikes the temple and creates a diamond-shaped light feature on the side of the stairs leading up to the temple.
Alongside the temple, you can also explore several other structures, such as the Great Ball Court, the Observatory, and the Temple of Warriors. These structures all serve as reminders of Chichen Itza's rich history and its importance to the Maya people.
Visiting Chichen Itza is an unforgettable experience that will take you back in time. Whether you're interested in exploring the majestic architecture or learning about the Mayan culture and their beliefs, this is a must-visit destination that should be noticed.
4) The Colosseum, Italy
The Colosseum in Rome, Italy, is one of the world's most famous and impressive historical monuments.
Built between 70 and 80 AD, it is an iconic symbol of the Roman Empire and its legacy. The Colosseum was originally used for gladiator battles and other public spectacles, such as animal hunts and executions.
The Colosseum is a remarkable example of ancient Roman engineering and architecture, with four tiers of arches surrounding a central arena.
The entire structure is made of stone blocks joined together with iron clamps. It's still a popular tourist attraction; visitors can even tour its underground chambers.
The Colosseum has also become a symbol of Italian culture and history. Its silhouette can be seen on many Italian coins and stamps, and it remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country.
It has also been used as a backdrop for various film scenes and music videos.
Visiting the Colosseum is a must-do experience for anyone looking to explore the history and culture of Italy. Its iconic architecture and rich cultural significance make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Whether you're visiting Rome or any other part of Italy, add the Colosseum to your itinerary – you won't regret it!
5) Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat is one of the most renowned temples in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a religious complex built during the Khmer Empire between the 9th and 13th centuries and is still considered an iconic symbol of the empire's power.
The temple is huge and spectacular. The central tower stands at 215 feet, and visitors can explore the five levels of the temple complex. Each level reveals different aspects of the culture and history of the Khmer Empire.
The walls and ceilings of the temple are decorated with intricate bas-reliefs depicting stories from Hindu mythology as well as scenes from everyday life in ancient Cambodia.
Angkor Wat is considered a masterpiece of architecture and engineering, and it has become a popular destination for tourists worldwide. It is one of the most photographed sites in the world and is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the majesty of ancient Cambodia.