World history is littered with eye-catching historical sites. From ancient marvels to memorials, these iconic structures serve as living records of humanity’s story.
Italy, home of both Roman civilization and Renaissance art, tops Unesco’s World Heritage list with 58 World Heritage sites, while China boasts 56. Notable among them are The Great Wall and Terracotta Army as well as temples in Xian and Pisa’s leaning tower of Pisa.
India
India boasts some of the most magnificent historic places, from palaces and forts to temples and mosques – each testament to India’s rich culture, heritage and history.
Taj Mahal, constructed as a monument of love by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz, stands out among the most iconic historical places in India. This towering structure represents unparalleled architecture and design excellence.
The Gateway of India in Mumbai is another popular tourist attraction. Built during British rule as an entranceway into the city, its iconic structure still serves as an impressive sight today.
Elephanta Caves, an UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Elephanta Island are well worth a visit. This collection of rock-cut caves hosts two groups of Hindu and Buddhist cave temples that should not be missed!
Mexico
Mexico’s iconic landmark is the Basilica of Guadalupe, built between 16th and 17th centuries to honor Mexico’s patron saint. Other churches, convents, pilgrimage sites and pilgrimage trails can be found throughout Mexico; nearly all Mexicans practice Catholicism and celebrate traditions like Day of the Dead celebrations.
Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, stands out as an impressive archaeological site. Here you will find an impressive complex of buildings focused on El Castillo’s step pyramid dedicated to Mayan god Kukulcan; other structures at Chichen Itza include Temple of Warriors and El Caracol circular observatory.
The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City houses millions of ancient artefacts. Popular items on display include an Aztec sun stone and a recreation of Pakal’s Tomb.
China
China was late to this game but quickly rose through the ranks to take second place as having the highest concentration of historical sites with 56 cultural and natural landmarks to its name.
At its center is the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang in Xi’an. Built nearly 2200 years ago and forgotten until 1974 when farmers digging wells made one of the greatest archaeological finds ever made.
Other notable sites in China include the Great Wall, Forbidden City and Library of Celsius – Cleopatra and Marc Antony once walked along its paths! Also don’t miss Honghe Hani Rice Terraces in southern Yunnan which offer breathtaking sights that nature lovers and history enthusiasts must see!
Germany
Germany is one of the oldest and most historic countries in Europe, boasting 51 UNESCO World Heritage sites that reflect its rich history – from ancient buildings and mining regions to cracking culture.
Germany is home to many iconic historical landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Holocaust Memorial. Additionally, many renowned museums can be found there such as Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie and Bode Museum.
Osnabruck’s history as the site where the Peace of Westphalia was signed shaped its modern character. Osnabruck is also famous for its Mozart heritage and outstanding architecture of its city centre. Potsdam presents another side to German history through Prussian pomp and splendour – its castles and palaces offering breathtaking glimpses into culture and history.
Turkey
Turkey, situated at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, has long been recognized as an important trading center. Additionally, its historic capitals were Seljuq, Ottoman and Byzantine empires which all left lasting influences upon world affairs.
Goreme is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its impressive rock formations shaped by water and wind erosion, known as fairy chimneys. Additionally, Goreme features old underground cities as well as Byzantine art chiseled into the rock face.
Since 1923, following the collapse of Ottoman Empire, Turkey has been a secular republic governed by military-backed parliamentary democracy with ambitions of joining European Union despite concerns regarding human rights and secularism; additionally it leads regional economic and political integration projects.
