History-rich places abound around the world, offering travellers a glimpse into our past. From iconic landmarks to ancient civilisations and more – there is something here for every traveler!
From the iconic Colosseum to Stonehenge and beyond, here are 10 world-renowned historic sites you must see in 2018.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu in Peru, one of the world’s most-visited tourist attractions, is one of the world’s top tourist destinations. An archaeological sanctuary with temples, water fountains and residences, it also serves as a symbol for Inca civilization whose impressive engineering and architecture have become legendary worldwide.
Historians believe that Pachacuti began building his citadel to expand his Tahuantinsuyo empire during the 15th century, yet precise dating remains difficult. Historians speculate that construction began shortly thereafter, though specific dating is difficult due to lack of documentation.
It is thought that this site served as a religious, administrative, and military center, featuring temples, palaces, residential buildings, and several military posts. Situated atop a mountain saddle overlooking Urubamba River – which served as an essential route for Inca – these ruins were constructed without using wheels or pack animals – their doors and windows even feature trapezoidal shapes to increase strength!
Old Havana
Havana’s status as the key port in the West Indies led it to establish an extensive dockyard system and maintain an impressive fleet, both of which necessitated military protection and necessitated defensive installations of which some are some of the oldest and largest stone fortifications still standing today in North America.
Old Havana has transformed into an epicenter of commerce and culture over time, welcoming tourists who throng its iconic buildings while the Cuban people make this city truly remarkable. On an especially scorching morning in Old Havana, one can witness courtly figures donning gray guayaberas weave through Plaza de Armas without drawing too much attention – or worse attracting suspicion!
This historic square is home to Iglesia Catedral de La Habana and La Bodeguita del Medio bar. Once enclosed by city walls, each evening at 9pm you can hear “el Canonazo de las Nueve” being fired – an enjoyable tradition dating back centuries! Also located here are beautiful colonial buildings which make a great spot for enjoying frozen lemonade or mojito cocktails!
The Great Pyramids of Egypt
At the advent of Egyptology in the nineteenth century, pyramids quickly became one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Primarily used as tombs for powerful Egyptian pharaohs, they also served important religious purposes; ancient Egyptians believed that after physical death one’s “ka”, or soul continued living; therefore they wanted their pharaohs to feel comfortable during their transition into afterlife.
Early pyramids were constructed to resemble giant steps; later ones had flat sides to represent the mound that emerged with creation; while angled pyramids reminded people of rays from the sun as they pointed directly north – associated with death and burial sites.
Construction of these massive structures required thousands of workers. With the discovery of Heit el-Ghurab near Giza pyramids providing some insight into their workforce requirements; but their exact method remains unknown – many theories exist such as rollers or wet silt surface being used by workers to transport massive blocks from quarry site to pyramid site.
Washington’s Inaugural Hall
George Washington was inaugurated as America’s first President on April 30, 1789 at Federal Hall, America’s original Capitol. This ceremony set several firsts: it took place outdoors; Washington administered his oath using the Bible as opposed to paper; and provided an inaugural address that has become the standard among future presidents.
Washington’s inaugural ceremony included a procession consisting of his family, politicians and military units from all across America. Washington himself walked from Broadway up Broadway towards the Senate Chamber, where John Adams welcomed both houses of Congress to welcome their new leader.
Once the House and Senate had extended their congratulations, Robert Livingston of New York administered his presidential oath. Once done, Washington kissed Samuel Otis’ Bible held by Samuel Otis as Secretary of the Senate, before giving his inaugural address which served as both a call to service as well as setting out principles such as civic virtue and republican government in its delivery.
