We live in an extraordinary world full of astonishing historical places and wonders, the result of civilizations coming together to achieve extraordinary achievements throughout time.
Pompeii, located near Naples and preserved Roman city buried by volcanic ash following Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD, remains one of the finest examples of preserved Roman city planning in existence today.
Petra
Petra, an incredible fairytale city constructed of reddish-pink sandstone in shades of red and pink, was described by 19th-century biblical scholar John William Burgon as “rose-red city half as old as time.” It features both Nabatean rock carving and Greek temples, columns and buildings.
Al-Khazneh, commonly referred to as the Treasury in Petra, is perhaps its most renowned landmark. Originally a tomb or at least crypt for Nabatean ruler Aretas IV Filopatris, its popularity soared after legend told of hidden riches within its rock-cut walls and became widely known by that name.
Petra’s second major attraction is its theatre, which can seat up to 4000 spectators. Carved into a mountainside and originally used for performances of ancient Nabatean drama such as Urna, it also houses the High Place of Sacrifice ruins as well as tombs known as Royal Tombs which feature elaborate facades but unfortunately are not as well preserved due to dry heat conditions and their delicate stone construction requiring constant moisture maintenance.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England has long been the subject of both myth and legend as well as scientific investigation. Many visitors visit annually to witness this stunning circle of stones that bears such symbolic meaning for our planet and beyond.
Stonehenge was initially constructed using a circular ditch and bank enclosure similar to those seen elsewhere around the British Isles; then timber posts were placed inside, perhaps serving as precursors of future bluestone sarsens (bluestones) to be placed at its site.
Mike Pitts, a geophysical surveyor and archaeological adviser to English Heritage, believes the Aubrey Holes are part of funerary sites with circular mound burials like those found throughout Wessex. Skeletons, cremated remains, precious items like copper and bronze daggers and incense cups may have all been interred here as part of a funerary site with circular mound burials – such as those seen at Wessex funerary sites – along with precious objects were likely interred here along with precious items like copper/bronze daggers/incense cups and copper/bronze daggers or incense cups
The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Egypt is an iconic landmark, made of limestone. This mythological creature with human head and lion body features as one of its distinguishing characteristics and stands as an iconic landmark worldwide and an emblematic symbol. Constructed during Old Kingdom Egypt under pharaoh Khafre’s rule during his Old Kingdom reign, many believe the Great Sphinx depicts his face.
Construction took nearly three years and 100 workers nearly three years, but since its creation, environmental erosion has resulted in its total dismantlement – even its iconic nose has been completely demolished by nature!
The Sphinx is one of the oldest colossal statues still standing and serves as a protector for Khafre’s pyramid and funerary temples, though its beard was likely added during New Kingdom times. Furthermore, ancient Egyptians were famed for meticulous documentation but none exist about the Sphinx’s construction!
Bagan
Bagan boasts an astonishing collection of temples and pagodas that provide visitors with a spiritual haven, mesmerizing archaeologists for years. Additionally, it serves as a living site with fresh produce markets, lacquerware workshops and villages offering authentic experiences away from the tourist hustle.
These extraordinary structures were built during the golden age of Pagan Empire from 11th to 13th centuries, when its population flourished under Buddhist influence. At that time, they served as a hub of Buddhist culture; their impressive collection of temples, stupas and monasteries symbolized religious devotion in early regional empires.
Popular temples include Sulamani Guphaya and Ananda Pagoda; however, it’s well worth venturing beyond these popular spots to uncover lesser-visited gems. For the best view of temples and surroundings landscape, take advantage of sunset hot air balloon rides!
