Are You Searching for adventure? Consider exploring world-famous historical sites! These fascinating places offer visitors a wonderful way to understand our past through ancient ruins, palaces and cathedrals – there is truly something special and worth seeing at every historical spot on our globe! In this article we will take a look at some of these fantastic historical locations; so pack up and start traveling back through time!
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is many things for many people; poet’s inspiration, architectural marvel and tourist magnet. But to India as a whole it stands as an iconic symbol.
Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal Emperor, constructed this structure following Mumtaz Mahal’s death from childbirth complications. Qur’anic verses and designs featuring semiprecious stones can be found throughout its pillars.
Petra
Petra is one of the main draws to Jordan, boasting exquisite rock-cut architecture which includes temples, tombs and churches that exhibit both Hellenistic architectural facades as well as traditional Nabatean building methods.
Petra, commonly referred to as the “Rose City,” lay hidden for centuries until being discovered again by Swiss explorer Johann Schliemann in 1812. Today it stands as one of the new seven wonders of the world.
The Treasury is certainly one of the highlights, but there are other places worth visiting as well. Make sure to spend some time walking along The Siq – an alluring narrow pathway reminiscent of Utah slot canyons – as this will add a unique perspective.
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Visitors to this vast park on Navajo tribal land in America will be treated to stunning cliffs and canyon views that take your breath away. Prehistoric rock art dot the landscape here as well as Spider Rock, an 800-foot sandstone spire.
At least 5000 years ago, prehistoric tribes hunted and migrated seasonally here without building permanent settlements. Around 1600 CE, Basketmakers and Ancestral Puebloan People adopted more semi-agricultural lifestyles.
People began constructing cliff dwellings such as the White House Ruins within Canyon de Chelly National Monument. These compounds of apartment-like dwellings built into towering sandstone cliffs and perched atop high ledges are still visible today and still command attention.
Ephesus
History enthusiasts shouldn’t miss visiting Ephesus (Efes), an ancient city located on the western coast of Turkey. Renowned for its impressive ruins and Temple of Artemis – one of seven wonders of antiquity – as well as St John’s Basilica and Virgin Mary’s House which attract pilgrims, it offers plenty to keep historians busy!
Don’t miss visiting the Odeon Theater and Library of Celsus. These attractions tend to get packed quickly so be sure to visit them early in the morning or late afternoon.
Khai Dinh Tomb
Khai Dinh Tomb serves as the final resting place of Emperor Khai Dinh who reigned from 1916-1925. Constructed over 11 years, it is one of Hue Royal Tombs and represents their most recent ruler’s enduring memory.
This hillside monument combines Vietnamese and European architectural influences. The grand exterior is covered in blackened concrete while its interiors resemble an explosion of vibrant mosaic tiles.
Visitors wishing to access the entrance must climb 37 steps adorned with dragon statues. Once at the top, they can appreciate a four-row arrangement of courtiers and soldiers at Tam Quan gate.
Washington Monument
No visit to Washington, DC would be complete without visiting the world’s tallest stone structure – the iconic obelisk-shaped monument that commemorates America’s first commander-in-chief, George Washington.
Travel by elevator up to the 500-foot level for stunning views of Washington. On-site rangers will offer information about George Washington and its construction as part of this landmark attraction.
Travelers looking for a physical challenge will relish climbing 227 stairs up the tower of this monument – you won’t regret the view alone!
Taos Pueblo
In the United States, Taos Pueblo offers visitors traditional adobe structures and an intact village that has been continuously inhabited for more than one millennium – both are recognized by UNESCO World Heritage as well as National Historic Landmark status.
About 150 tribal members reside full time in this village. Guided tours are offered, and its community adheres strictly to its traditions.
Plan your tour around their festivals and ceremonial dances so you can experience this vibrant culture first-hand.
Pompeii
Pompeii was a Roman city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 C.E. Visitors can explore its excavated remains for an intimate look into everyday life in ancient Italy.
The Doric Temple of Apollo stands as one of only a handful remaining monuments in Rome and Pompeii that honors this multifaceted god, venerated for music, truth, healing, poetry, amphitheater design and marblework details. It should not be missed!
San Jacinto
San Jacinto offers many unforgettable attractions and activities, making it a special destination. Don’t miss this gem of Texas.
San Jacinto Monument stands as a commemorative reminder of Texas’ victory over Mexico at the Battle of San Jacinto, featuring a 34-foot Lone Star on top. It stands 570 feet and features world’s tallest masonry tower as its centerpiece.
At the base of the monument stands a museum detailing four centuries of Texas history, as well as hosting Albert and Ethel Herzstein Library.
