Historical sites from all around the globe tell incredible tales of human civilization. Exploring them will give you a deep sense of history while reinvigorating your appreciation of modern living.
Help preserve these important historic sites for future generations by following some basic rules, like leaving no trace behind and sticking to designated trails. Here are some great historical landmarks you should visit:
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza was an important Mayan city that rose to prominence during Mesoamerica’s Classic period. Located around two natural cavities (known as cenotes) which provided access to underground water sources, the site also bears evidence of Toltec influence from when this group intermarried with Itza culture.
El Castillo, or Temple of Kukulcan or Quetzalcoatl, is one of the site’s most notable structures and features a pyramid temple known as El Castillo which features a staircase of ninety-one steps that symbolizes each day of the year and during spring and fall equinox a shadow snake appears to descend the steps; an effect created by Mayans.
Chichen Itza features one of the world’s largest ancient ball courts: The Great Ball Court. Arranged into architectonic sets separated by low walls that once provided protection, Chichen Itza boasts one of the world’s premier ball courts for ancient sports enthusiasts.
Khai Dinh Tomb
Khai Dinh Tomb (Ung Lang Mausoleum) in Hue is an amazing site to visit with its magnificent features and rich Vietnamese and European architecture, making it a wonderful and captivating spot.
Khai Dinh was considered a puppet of France, so this tomb is considered as a symbolic display of his extravagant lifestyle.
This complex was constructed on a moderate hill surrounded by dense forests. Construction took 11 years, during which time the emperor sent people to France for iron, steel, cement and Ardoise tiles as well as China and Japan for porcelain and colored glass products.
Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza is an Egyptian monument that stands 4,500 years, sporting an image of a lion with human features on its head and body. One of the world’s most renowned landmarks, its origins and history remain unknown.
The Sphinx has long been an icon of Egyptian culture and religion, captivating European visitors for millennia. Legend has it that Napoleon became so fascinated with ancient Egypt during his campaigns against Britain in late 18th century that when he saw its pyramids and Sphinx he exclaimed “Thousands of Years of History Look Down on Us!”
Egyptologists generally agree that the Sphinx was likely constructed either by Khufu – creator of the Great Pyramid – or one of his two sons Djedefre or Khafre. Unfortunately, no definitive proof can be provided as to who actually built it; its construction remains unknown and remain a source of great mystery.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is an exceptional example of idealized romantic architecture. Built as a retreat for King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a nod to Richard Wagner operas, its two-story, turreted design includes paintings and murals depicting poet Tannhauser, Swan Knight Lohengrin, and Grail King Parsifal among many others.
Christian Jank of stage designer fame designed and architect Eduard Riedel brought this castle into reality, featuring elements from Romanesque and Gothic Revival styles.
Interiors of Ludwig’s Palace are filled with illustrations drawn from German legends, Wagner operas and Middle Age history. For instance, on the fourth-floor Singers’ Hall is inspired by Lohengrin while his Throne Room (which at his death did not contain one) depicts scenes from Tristan and Isolde, Tannhauser and Parsifal by Wagner.
Persepolis
Persepolis was constructed by Darius and remains of palaces and treasuries can still be seen today. Thought to have been used primarily for ceremonies and as a meeting point for dignitaries from across the Persian Empire.
Alexander the Great’s plan to control and conquer the largest empire ever was partially executed when many palaces were demolished during his invasion in 330 BC.
Marjane Satrapi’s novel documents an Iranian coming-of-age story during the Islamic Revolution. A nine-year-old girl grapples with reconciling both her middle Eastern culture and Western politics and social beliefs; rock band posters in her room serve to highlight her various identities while she visits black markets for supplies.
