Though which country boasts the greatest number of historical places can vary according to one’s point of view, certain locations stand out as amazing examples of humanity’s ability to create lasting beauty and marvel.
From China’s Great Wall and Angkor Wat in Southeast Asia to Chichen Itza’s Temple of Kukulkan in Mexico, these iconic historical places should not be missed.
Italy
World history is filled with breathtaking historical landmarks, from the majestic Statue of Liberty to Angkor Wat’s ancient remains – there’s something for every type of traveler out there! But which country boasts the most noteworthy past-making experiences?
Italy leads with 58 UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing an ideal way to trace human history. As its birthplace of Roman culture and Renaissance art makes Italy an unparalleled opportunity to do just that.
Italy is home to some of the world’s greatest historic attractions, from the Colosseum to the Last Supper, stunning architecture like Bologna’s porticoes and Padua’s fourteenth-century fresco cycles, plus Venice as an artistic delight; strolling its arcaded square of San Marco will reveal St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and more; then look skyward to see Leaning Tower of Pisa which was constructed on unstable ground and has since tilted since 1399!
China
China is home to some of the world’s most impressive historical places. Its imperial past can be found in Xi’an Terracotta Warriors who guard China’s first Emperor’s elaborate tomb. Additionally, Qufu, home of Confucius himself is another important landmark.
Other historical landmarks include the Forbidden City in China – once home of Chinese Emperors. It embodies Chinese culture through its exquisite architecture and symbolism. Additionally, France boasts another impressive historical site: Versailles Palace with its lavish gardens and interior decorations that display French extravagance.
Notable sites in Istanbul include Hagia Sophia, which served as both church and mosque before becoming a museum. Cambodia’s stunning Angkor Wat should also be on your itinerary; with its vast collection of temples, it makes an incredible sight and also is one of the best spots to witness winter solstice!
Germany
Germany may have come late to UNESCO, yet already boasts an impressive collection of World Heritage Sites that commemorate its turbulent past or celebrate its rich cultural legacy.
Tourists in Berlin can visit the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic neoclassical landmark that was constructed for Prussia’s King Frederick William II in 1791 and inspired by Athens’ Acropolis design – one of Europe’s most visited landmarks.
Other historic places include Schloss Neuschwanstein, an iconic 19th-century castle built for Bavarian King Ludwig II in southwest Bavaria and situated in a stunning setting overlooking Fussen village in southwest Bavaria. As one of Bavaria’s premier tourist destinations and home of an exquisite royal chapel decorated with gold-leafed murals and intricate woodcarvings as well as featuring an unusual mechanical musical instrument called a glockenspiel which can be found throughout European folk music culture, Schloss Neuschwanstein attracts many visitors each year from all corners.
Iran
Iran boasts many historical landmarks that are registered with UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, including Meidan Naghshe Jahan, Isfahan, Persepolis and Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat. Each one holds special appeal that attracts people from across the world.
Arg-e Bam is a fortified medieval town located on Iran’s plateau that has been carefully preserved as an excellent example of an Achaemenid city. Additionally, this city is famed for its qanats that allow residents to live comfortably amidst its desert environment.
Shah Cheragh Mausoleum is an icon of Islamic art that never ceases to amaze tourists who visit Shiraz. This magnificent structure boasts stunning tilework, artistic mirrors and impressive calligraphy; furthermore it was Iran’s first reinforced concrete dome and should definitely be on your itinerary when visiting this stunning city. Don’t miss visiting when in Shiraz!
