The world is undoubtedly filled with amazing places, whether natural or man-made. The best way to discover ancient civilisations is travelling to world heritage sites and witnessing the wonder yourself. If you’re looking to go back in time this year, here are the best historical destinations in the world that will sure satisfy that history buff within you.
Stonehenge, England
Located in the English county of Wiltshire, Stonehenge is a fascinating prehistoric monument. Consisting of a circular setting of large standing stones set within earthworks, Stonehenge is one of the most famous historical sites in the world. While nobody knows exactly why it was built, it is theorized that it may have been built as an astronomical observatory or religious site. Archaeologists believe it was constructed around 3000 BC.
The Great Wall, China
For 21 centuries, the Great Wall of China has been built, re-built, and expanded by successive dynasties in the Chinese empire. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the wall truly represents impressive engineering. The original wall is believed to have been built under the rule of Emperor Qin, who successfully unified parts of China around 221 BC. It was built for the purpose of protecting China from invasion or any attacks from northern invaders.
The Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is among the most remarkable structures in the world and the story behind its construction is very charming. Emperor Shah Jahan built it to serve as a mausoleum and monument for his wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1632. It was finished in 1653 and was constructed by twenty thousand workers. It is made of marble and inlayed with twenty-eight different kinds of precious and semi-precious stones from all across India and Asia.
Colosseum, Italy
The remnants of an ancient and powerful civilisation, the Colosseum is filled with beauty and rich history. Probably the most famous landmark in Rome, this is where Caesar walked and where gladiators battled to the death with 45,000 spectators watching. Throughout the Middle Ages, the Colosseum was believed to be a place of martyrdom and was therefore regarded as a sacred place.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
As the only surviving Wonder of the World, the pyramids are among the oldest and most impressive historical sites available today. The three main pyramids were built in the 4
th Dynasty (around 2560 BC) over a period of 10 to 20 years. They were used as tombs for the kings and queens of the pharaohs. It was an exclusive privilege to have a Pyramid tomb during that time and the largest pyramid was built for the Egyptian pharaoh Khufu.
By Amal Ahmed
