Historical Places From Machu Picchu and the Great Wall of China to stunning sites around the world like Angkor Wat and Taj Mahal in India, history can be found everywhere you look. As a traveler or history enthusiast alike, certain landmarks should make every traveler’s bucket list; from Cambodia’s powerful Angkor Wat temples to India’s Taj Mahal. Here is our list of seven historical places you must see before dying: stunning architecture, captivating art pieces, incredible stories to tell and unparalleled scenery are what make these incredible sites truly unforgettable – start planning your next journey and include these 7 historic places on your itinerary!
Historical Places
1) Machu Picchu, Peru
South America is famous for its Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, constructed during the 15th and 16th centuries and considered one of the world’s most remote and stunning ancient sites. Translating directly from Quechua as “old mountain with a corner”, Machu Picchu served as royal estate of Inca Emperor Pachacuti himself.
Some speculate that Machu Picchu remains hidden from plain sight due to being cut out of a mountain by Incas for maximum invisibility from below, although this is simply speculation; what remains certain, though, is its immense appeal and breathtaking presence among ancient sites around the globe. Machu Picchu stands as an icon in history that should not be missed if one is seeking an in-depth understanding of past civilizations.
2) Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in Central America. Maya civilization was one of the most advanced and powerful pre-Columbian American cultures. Their culture was distinguished by beautiful architecture and large-scale building construction projects, and advanced astronomy skills – including Chichen Itza as one of its signature landmarks from this ancient civilization.
This site once housed thousands of people and held great ceremonial significance. Today, its remains lie buried deep within Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula’s dense jungle; visitors can still explore many temples and structures from that era that still stand today – feeling the power of this impressive site as they explore these remarkable structures that still stand.
3) Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat in Cambodia is an ancient temple considered one of the world’s most spectacular landmarks. Built by King Suryavarman II during the 12th century as his royal residence. The temple also served as a place of worship and served as a reception area for visitors of King Suryavarman II.
Comprised of three rectangular ponds surrounded by large temples, what makes Angkor Wat impressive is its sheer scale – nearly 7 miles of canals make up this enormous complex! Angkor Wat is one of the largest religious monuments in the world, comprised of over one hundred temples. Its scale alone makes this site truly remarkable and draws an overwhelming number of visitors each year. If you want to visit one of the world’s most stunning ancient temples, Angkor Wat must not be missed!
4) Great Wall Of China, China
The Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most well-known manmade structures. Constructed to protect China against invasion from the north, this wall was made primarily of stone and earth but with some wooden sections as well. At over 8,900 miles long it stands as the world’s longest human-made structure. It covers over 5,000 miles and stands over 13 feet on average; making this impressive engineering feat one of the greatest in history.
This wall was constructed over an extended period, beginning as early as 7th century BC and finishing up in 16th century when its purpose had become redundant. Although many sections have crumbled over time, large stretches remain that you can walk along and witness first-hand. A must-see site for any history enthusiast!
5) Taj Mahal, India
Taj Mahal in India The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most iconic and stunning structures. Constructed of white marble by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his wife, its name means “crown of palaces”. Today it remains one of the premier examples of Islamic architecture worldwide and an iconic place to visit while also holding a special place in our hearts despite never actually visiting in person – making it a bucket-list item like no other!
6) Colosseum, Rome
The Colosseum is one of Europe’s most celebrated ancient structures. Constructed around 70 AD in Rome and used for hosting games and events, the Colosseum stands out as an impressive piece of Roman Empire architecture; built as one of Europe’s largest amphitheaters with capacity for up to 50,000 spectators at any one time, and constructed entirely out of marble and stone materials – its iconic facade makes an instant trip back in time to ancient Rome; today visiting it is like visiting one of its historic locations – any history lover visiting Rome must not miss seeing it!
7) Petra, Jordan
Petra, Jordan Petra is one of the Middle East’s premier archaeological sites. Created by ancient Nabataeans during the 3rd century BC as an antidote for wartime stress and used as refuge during times of strife, it became famous for its distinctive structures – including its iconic “Lost City” entrance – as well as for being nominated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a voting competition in 2000s (but failed). Although no longer considered one of these iconic sites must visit its significance remains.
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Conclusion
These seven historical places must be seen before you die, from Machu Picchu to China’s Great Wall and many sites in between. From natural wonders like Machu Picchu or architectural marvels like Great Wall of China – take a trip back in time before these historic spots disappear into history!