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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The world is an endless storybook of pasts and histories, with each part telling its own tale. With the most incredible historical places in the world awaiting to be explored, history comes alive in a way that goes beyond what a book can convey.
Awe-Inspiring Historical Places in the World
Unforgettable Travel, Wandering Carol, and U.S. News all named Angkor Wat and Colosseum among the must-see historical places in the world. Other magnificent landmarks worth visiting include:
1. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
When it comes to historical places in the world, the grandeur of Angkor Wat is beyond words. Built in the early 12th century, this majestic temple complex is a testament to the artistic splendor of the Khmer Empire.
Originally, Angkor Wat was devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu and later converted into Buddhist worship. As you unveil its history, you can surely feel a strong spiritual aura of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. The Colosseum, Italy
The epicenter of ancient Roman entertainment, the Colosseum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman might. From hosting brutal gladiator combat to mock sea battles and exotic animal hunts, this colossal amphitheater could hold up to 80,000 spectators back in the days. Built between CE 70-80, the Colosseum remains an architectural marvel that continues to captivate visitors worldwide.
3. Taj Mahal, India
No list of historical places in the world would be complete without mentioning the Taj Mahal. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this mausoleum is a symbol of eternal love.
Thanks to its perfectly symmetrical design, with gleaming white marble and expansive gardens, UNESCO has acknowledged it as the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture.
4. The Acropolis, Greece
Perched high above the city of Athens, the Acropolis is a cradle of Western civilization. With its towering Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena, the complex represents the height of Athenian culture and democracy. Standing amidst these ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of philosophers who shaped the course of history.
5. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge is shrouded in mystery, without any exact understanding of how or why it stands. With a massive stone circle dating back to over 3,000 to 5,000 years, this Neolithic monument is believed to have served as a ceremonial or astronomical site. In 1986, Stonehenge was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Machu Picchu, Peru
Hidden high in the Andes mountains, Machu Picchu showcases the perfect fusion of nature and history. An enigmatic gem of the ancient Inca Empire, this historic sanctuary continues to captivate travelers with its mysterious allure, seen across the skillfully constructed terraces, temples, and narrow walkways.
7. The Alhambra, Spain
Located in the city of Granada, the Alhambra is proof to the glory of Islam in Spain. This exquisite palace and fortress complex, built by the Nasrid Dynasty in the 13th century, is celebrated for its fusion of Moor arts, breathtaking gardens, and intricate carvings. While you’re there, be sure to explore the must-see highlights like the Nasrif Palaces, the Alcazaba fortress, and Generalife gardens.
8. Easter Island, Chile
Easter Island is undoubtedly one of the most well-known, yet isolated historical places in the world that keep an unraveled mystery. Carved by the Rapa Nui people, there are more than 600 gigantic Megalith Moai statues which date back between 1400 to 1650 AD.
Theories upon theories never stop swirling around Easter Island, particularly about how the ancient inhabitants moved and erected these colossal statues. The conversation of this remote island is also often closely linked to the cases of lost civilizations in human history.
9. The Great Wall of China, China
Among the most remarkable architectural marvels in the walks of life, the Great Wall of China is a testament to human ingenuity. Stretching more than 13,000 miles, the wall was originally built to protect against invasions in the 7th century BCE.
Today, the Great Wall is a premier tourist destination in China, inviting visitors to walk along its ancient stones while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests
10. Mont Saint-Michel, France
Rising dramatically from the sea, Mont Saint-Michel is a mesmerizing medieval island commune in Normandy, France. This architectural wonder stands out for its towering abbey which seems to float on the water during high tide, creating a magical view.
Historically, Mont Saint-Michel has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries, ever since the archangel Michael appeared in a dream to Saint Aubert in 708.
These incredible historical places in the world are more than just landmarks; they’re doors to the understanding of ancient cultures and stories of civilizations.
To continue the exploration upon the topic, be sure to explore the biggest historical mysteries.
UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL | WANDERING CAROL | US NEWS
Editor’s Choice: 10 Biggest Historical Mysteries That Remain Unsolved
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