The world is brimming with several awe-inspiring and magnificent historical cities in various countries. These historic places are home to numerous monuments and ruins that offer glimpses into the past. Small or huge, ruin or monument; these places showcase the current generation the legacies of the bygone era and primitive times of today’s technology.
When we think of such places, there are a handful of such things that come to our mind like the Egyptian Pyramids or Angkor Wat. Apart from the popular ones, several other places will leave you fascinated and dumbstruck in many ways. In this blog, let’s have a look at some of the best historical places to visit in the world.
Here, have a look at some of the most fascinating historical places to visit in the world
Historical Places in the World | |
| Stonehenge | Amesbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7DE, England. |
| Taj Mahal | Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India. |
| Angkor Wat | Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. |
| Colosseum | Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy. |
| Great Wall of China | Badaling Great Wall, Badaling Town, Yanqing District, Beijing, China. |
| Pyramids of Giza | Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate, Egypt |
| Petra | Ma’an Governorate, Jordan |
| Alhambra | Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain. |
| Chichén Itzá | 97751 Tinum, Yucatán, Mexico. |
| Parthenon | Acropolis of Athens, Athens 105 58, Greece. |
| Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque | Sultanahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey |
| The Palace of Versailles | Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France |
1. Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a mysterious prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, and is estimated to have been created or formed between the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Huge boulders are arranged in a circle where every stone weighs around a ton, at least. Some of the stones here are given names like sarsens which weigh approximately 25 tons.
Several mysteries have been encircled around this stone arrangement in a vast area and many questions remain unanswered to date. People visit this spot for fun and thrill due to its location. So while you plan on visiting here, you will be stunned to see the marvels of the Neolithic era.
2. Taj Mahal
India is home to a lot of mysterious places and some of the most amazing historic monuments, one of which is the Taj Mahal. Known to be the symbol of love, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has always attracted travellers from around the world. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Located on the banks of the river Yamuna, this beautiful white marble monument has a timeless beauty that has been almost intact to date. To witness the best side of this marvellous monument it is better that you visit here during sunrise or sunset.
3. Angkor Wat
Who doesn’t know Angkor Wat and its timeless beauty? Located in the heart of Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park, it is known to be the largest religious monument in the world. This Khmer masterpiece was built in the 12th century and it still looks fresh and beautiful. Initially, Angkor Wat was dedicated to lord Vishnu but later on, it was transformed into a Buddhist site.
The entire temple and its premises show some intricate designs and sculptures all over the place. Apart from intriguing people with its sheer marvel, this temple can offer peace and solace too. People explore the entire archeological park to give themselves some rejuvenation.
4. Colosseum
Also known as the ancient Roman Amphitheatre, the Colosseum is another historical site that will captivate you with its broken design. Even in today’s time, it is one of the most popular sites that travellers do not miss out on visiting, and it also acts as a landmark in the city. People visiting this monument take a guided tour of its entire vicinity.
While you also plan to put this on your itinerary while visiting Rome, make sure to also explore the underground chambers. It is the place where fighter men of that era used to wait for their turn in the arena. The Colosseum is a perfect example of the top-notch engineering and architecture of Rome’s history.
5. Great Wall of China
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Wall of China is an example of man-made marvels. The entire wall is made over multiple hills and plateaus for over 20,000 km. It runs between the east seaside to the west desert of China making it one of the largest man-made historic monuments. It took hundreds of years to get this entire wall done across 6 different Chinese dynasties.
The Great Wall of China is approximately 2300 years old and it happens to be one of the best historical places you can visit across the globe. Take a walk around the wall to enjoy an evening with your partner or family.
6. Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza, standing tall on the Egyptian desert, are a breathtaking testament to ancient engineering and artistry. Built over 4,500 years ago, they were grand tombs for pharaohs, especially the iconic Great Pyramid for Pharaoh Khufu. Their perfect geometric design, with massive limestone blocks carefully aligned, showcases the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians.
Not only are they visually stunning, especially during sunsets, but they also carry immense historical significance, reflecting the grandeur of a civilisation that revered its rulers and the afterlife. Visiting the pyramids is like stepping back in time, marvelling at one of the most awe-inspiring wonders of the ancient world.
7. Petra
Hidden within the rugged cliffs of Jordan, Petra is an ancient city that feels like a real-life adventure. Famous for its stunning rock-cut architecture, like the Treasury and Monastery, it was once a bustling trading hub over 2,000 years ago. The warm rose-red stone glows beautifully at sunrise and sunset, giving it the nickname “The Rose City.”
Exploring its narrow canyons and tombs is like walking through history, where every corner reveals secrets of the Nabataean civilisation. Petra’s blend of natural beauty, rich history, and architectural marvels makes it an unforgettable destination for history lovers and explorers alike.
8. Alhambra
Alhambra, perched on a hilltop in Granada, Spain, is a stunning blend of Moorish art and architecture. This palace and fortress complex, built by the Nasrid dynasty in the 13th century, dazzles with intricate tilework, elegant arches, and serene courtyards like the famous Court of the Lions.
Its gardens, like the Generalife, offer breathtaking views and a peaceful escape. Alhambra’s historical significance lies in its rich Islamic heritage, making it a cultural crossroads of Europe. Walking through its halls, you’re transported to a world of beauty and history, where every corner tells a story of past grandeur.
9 Chichén Itzá
Visiting the ancient Mayan city of Chichén Itzá is like stepping into a vibrant past full of mystery and culture. The awe-inspiring Temple of Kukulcán dominates the site, with its precise astronomical design, where shadows form a serpent during equinoxes. The sprawling complex also boasts the Great Ball Court, where Mayans played their legendary ball game, and the sacred Cenote, once used for rituals.
Chichén Itzá’s blend of impressive architecture and deep spiritual significance makes it one of the best-preserved wonders of the ancient world, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mayan civilization’s advanced knowledge and rich traditions.
10. Parthenon
The Parthenon, an iconic symbol of ancient Greece, stands majestically on the Acropolis of Athens. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, this stunning temple showcases the brilliance of classical architecture with its grand columns and exquisite sculptures. Built in the 5th century BC, the Parthenon reflects the artistic and cultural achievements of the Athenian Golden Age.
Visitors are captivated by its impressive design and rich history, as it has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Exploring the Parthenon not only offers a glimpse into ancient era but also inspires a sense of wonder about the artistic legacy that continues to influence modern architecture.
11. Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, it later became a mosque and now stands as a museum and mosque. It showcases the rich tapestry of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. The Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a breathtaking marvel of architecture and history. Its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and stunning minarets are truly awe-inspiring.
The play of light inside creates a magical atmosphere, inviting reflection and wonder. Visiting this iconic landmark is like walking through centuries of history, making it a must-see destination for anyone fascinated by culture, art, and the intertwining of different religious traditions.
12. The Palace of Versailles
Nestled just outside Paris, the grandeur of Versailles is simply breathtaking. Once the royal residence of Louis XIV, this opulent palace is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. Visitors are captivated by the Hall of Mirrors, where history was made, and the meticulously manicured gardens that stretch endlessly, showcasing stunning fountains and sculptures. The palace’s rich history reveals the lavish lifestyle of French royalty and the pivotal role it played in shaping European politics. Exploring its lavish rooms and gardens feels like stepping into a fairy tale, making it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by history and beauty.
