Historical places showcase human creativity and are truly captivating sights to behold. Below are some of the best historical spots you should visit on your next international tour.
Pompeii in Italy was preserved by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD and now ranks amongst one of the best-preserved archaeological sites worldwide. As part of UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, its remains have remained practically untouched through time.
The Pyramids of Giza
The iconic Pyramids of Giza stand as testaments to Egypt’s ancient engineering mastery. Constructed over 4,500 years ago, these monumental structures now stand erect on the Giza Plateau as remnants of one of history’s Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Pharaohs believed they would become gods in the afterlife and built massive tombs to house their souls in. Over time, these impressive monuments became some of the most revered structures ever constructed.
The Great Pyramid of Giza was constructed during the Fourth Dynasty of Old Kingdom for Pharaoh Khufu, commonly referred to as Cheops. Once upon a time it stood as one of the tallest manmade structures ever constructed; Khufu had two sons named Khafre and Menkaure who also constructed pyramids for themselves during this time; at this same point in history also saw construction of The Sphinx, an enormous statue with both human and lion heads at Giza.
Today, the pyramids form part of the Giza Necropolis UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract over 14 million visitors each year. However, they’re now threatened by urban encroachment from tourists, golf courses and resorts as well as air pollution and illegal activities that threaten them.
The Terracotta Army
Farmers digging a well on their land in 1974 accidentally unearthed what would become one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century: an underground army consisting of around 8,000 terracotta warriors, horses and chariots buried for around 2,200 years – thought to be part of China’s first Emperor Qin Shi Huang (221-20 BC)’s final resting place and designed to assist him on his journey into afterlife. Now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Each of the 8,000 life-size statues in the Terracotta Army was meticulously hand-made with distinct facial features. This level of realism revolutionized ancient Chinese art at that time; prior to then most art had primarily ceremonial applications. Today only three out of the four pits have been fully excavated so far but it provides an extraordinary window into Chinese culture and history; don’t miss this unforgettable exhibit!
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China represents much of China’s history and legacy. Constructed over centuries by numerous ancient dynasties and states as protection from nomadic tribes raids, its construction witnessed many soldiers sacrifice themselves. One popular legend tells how when one such woman finally reached Shanhaiguan Pass to work on it she shed so many tears they caused part of it to collapse beneath her, revealing her husband’s bones underfoot.
The Great Wall runs along a path stretching from Hushan Mountain in the east to Jiayuguan Pass in the west, passing through multiple provinces and regions. Some of its best preserved walls can be found near Beijing; these landmarks have become must-visit destinations for first-time visitors.
Unfortunately, about 30% of the Great Wall is being lost at an alarmingly fast pace due to natural weathering and human action – people breaking bricks to sell or use as building materials while plants growing into it can exacerbate its erosion.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
At Pisa Cathedral Complex, it’s impossible to miss its signature tilting tower. Although its architects never intended for it to tilt in that manner, this eye-catching structure draws millions of tourists every year.
Torre di Pisa’s tilt was due to shifting foundations during construction, which may have contributed to its tilt but may also have helped protect it from collapsing entirely.
From 1990 to 2001, engineers worked to stabilize the tower so it wouldn’t collapse. To do this, they removed dirt from beneath its taller side in stages until their efforts successfully reduced tilt by 17.7 inches – this will hopefully remain safe to visit for decades to come. Visitors may also view nearby cathedral and baptistery by Pisano who designed them both over centuries!
