If you’re looking for an adventure, then consider visiting some of the world’s most historical sites! These locations are steeped in history and offer a unique opportunity to learn about our past.
From ancient ruins to palaces and cathedrals, there is something for everyone when it comes to historical landmarks. In this article, we will explore some of the best historical places in the world. So pack your bags and get ready for a journey through time!
The Most Impressive Historical Places In the World
There are some historical places in the world that should be on everyone’s bucket list. These historical sites are so much more than just old buildings or ruins.
They offer a glimpse into history, and let travelers walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations and famous people.
1. Petra, Jordan
Our list begins with Petra, Jordan – one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This ancient city is located in a narrow gorge and was built by the Nabataeans more than 2000 years ago.
This historic place became an important stop on the caravan route between Africa and Arabia. Petra was largely abandoned after a major earthquake in 363 CE. However, shepherds used the ruins for shelter for centuries afterwards.
Petra is carved into the side of a cliff and most of it is still hidden underground. The only entrance is through a narrow gorge, called the Siq, which opens onto the city’s main square, or piazza. Petra was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
It’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. Many movies have been shot at Petra including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, The Mummy Returns and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
Next up is Machu Picchu, Peru. This Inca city was built around 1500 AD and abandoned just over 100 years later.
This incredible site remained unknown to the western world until 1911 when it was discovered by the explorer Hiram Bingham III. It’s estimated that there were more than 140 structures at one point in time.
These buildings were constructed using dry-stone walls, with no mortar. Although the purpose of this Inca citadel is unknown, some believe that it was a ceremonial site or the estate of the Inca emperor Pachacuti.
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. To access the impressive ruins, visitors must take a train to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where they can explore the bustling markets, enjoy delicious cuisine, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture
3. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most iconic historical places in the world. This iconic amphitheater was completed in 80 AD and is a marvel of engineering.
This ancient structure was commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and took over a decade to complete. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and other public spectacles.
It is estimated that over 500,000 ancient Romans lost their lives in the Colosseum. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and one of Rome’s most famous landmarks.
4. Angkor Thom, Cambodia
Tucked away in the dense jungles of Cambodia lies the magnificent city of Angkor Thom. This ancient city, which translates to “Great City,” was once the capital of the Khmer empire and home to over one million people.
Built in the 12th century, Angkor Thom boasts stunning architecture and intricate carvings that will leave visitors in awe. Its most notable structure is the breathtaking Angkor Wat, a massive Hindu temple complex dedicated to Vishnu. The site later became a Buddhist temple, but today it is visited by people from all over the world regardless of their religion.
As one of the largest religious monuments in the world, Angkor Wat is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Khmer people. A visit to Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience that is not to be missed.
5. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient defensive barrier that spans over 13,000 miles. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in China and a must-see for anyone visiting Asia.
This series of fortifications was built to protect the northern border of China from invaders. It was constructed in several phases during the Qin dynasty (221 BC to 206 BC) and rebuilt during the Ming dynasty.
The wall was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. You can visit this historical site by taking a guided tour or walking around on your own.
6. The Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is an ancient mausoleum located in Agra, India. It was built by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1632-1649 to honor his wife Mumtaz Mahal after her death from childbirth.
The elaborate mausoleum was constructed using white marble and precious stones such as jade, sapphire and turquoise. It’s considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and a must-see for any traveller visiting India.
7. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza are some of the oldest and most famous monuments in the world. These ancient Egyptian pyramids were probably built in the 26th century BC.
They were part of a funerary complex and were constructed as tombs for three pharaohs: Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Great Pyramid) is the largest and oldest of these pyramids. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one still standing.
There are many mysteries surrounding this structure, such as how the ancient Egyptians were able to move such large stones and how they managed to build the pyramids so precisely.
8. Stonehenge, United Kingdom
Stonehenge is an ancient stone circle located in Wiltshire, England. It’s one of the most mysterious and popular tourist destinations in the United Kingdom.
There are two prehistoric stone circles surrounded by chalk pits known as Aubrey holes. The stones are thought to have been brought here from Wales and Cornwall.
The stone circles are thought to have been erected between 3000-2000 BC and their purpose is still unknown to this day. It is thought that astronomical rituals may have taken place here.
9. The Great Sphinx of Giza, Egypt
The Great Sphinx of Giza is an ancient statue that was built between 2500 BC and 2400 BC. It’s located near Cairo in Egypt and is one of the oldest known monumental sculptures from antiquity.
The massive structure stands 73 metres high and is thought to have been built for Pharaoh Khafre. Based on a mythological creature, it was carved from one giant piece of stone.
10. The Forbidden City, Beijing, China
The Forbidden City was the Imperial Palace of the Chinese emperors from 1420 to 1912. This amazing historical place is located in central Beijing and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are 980 buildings and over 8,000 rooms, making it the largest palace complex in the world. In fact, this colossal structure is spread over 7.75 million square feet.
This is one of the best preserved wooden buildings in the world, and a must-see for anyone visiting China. As access was barred to most citizens, it was named The Forbidden City. However, it is now a museum and you can visit with a tour guide or explore on your own.
11. The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is a hilltop complex in Athens that contains some of the most famous historical sites in Greece. The most famous structure on the Acropolis is the Parthenon, an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Built between 447 BC and 432 BC, it’s considered one of the greatest achievements in classical architecture. The Parthenon has been admired throughout history by many renowned architects such as Le Corbusier.
Other structures on the Acropolis include the Propylaea (a gateway), and The Erechtheion (also known as the Temple of Athena Polias). One of the best ways to see these historic sites is by taking a guided tour.
12. Easter Island
This ancient site in the southeastern Pacific Ocean is famous for its huge statues. Known as moai, they were carved by early inhabitants.
Easter Island, whose native name is Rapa Nui, measures around 64 square miles. Estimates on when the island was settled range from around 300 to 1200 CE by people from Polynesia. The moai are almost all carved from tuff, a volcanic tuff rock native to the island.
Most of the statues are around 13 feet high (four meters), although the tallest completed moai was 33 feet high (12 meters). The moai statues that you see today have been re-erected by archaeologists.
Today, Rapa Nui National Park is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.
13. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous landmarks. Construction began on a marshy site in 1173 and only finished in 1399!
After the first three stories were built out of the 8 that were planned, it was noticed that the tower was leaning. This was due to the soft ground on which it was constructed, and the tower has been leaning ever since!
The tower leans at an angle of about five and a half degrees, which is enough to make it seem like it might topple over any moment, although it’s perfectly safe. You can visit this historical site in the city of Pisa, which is located in Tuscany.
14. The Terracotta Army, China
The Terracotta Army in China dates back to 210 BC, when Emperor Qin Shi Huang ordered more than 700,000 men to build his army. It is thought that he believed the warriors would one day protect him in the afterlife.
The site was discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers who were digging a well on their land. This famous archaeological site is now a popular tourist attraction. There are over 8,000 known terracotta figures here.
15. The Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
This ancient structure was built between AD532-AD537 as a Greek Orthodox cathedral in Constantinople, which is present-day Istanbul. It was converted into a mosque after the city was conquered by the Ottomans in 1453.
In 1935, this famous Turkish landmark became a museum and has since been open to visitors from all over the world. The interior of this historical site is covered in mosaics that depict the Virgin and Child and other religious figures.
16. The Palace of Versailles, France
The Palace of Versailles is considered to be one of the most spectacular palaces in Europe. It was built in the French Baroque style of architecture.
Louis XIII built a hunting lodge on the site of the Palace of Versailles in 1623. It was replaced with a chateau which was expanded by Louis XIV in the late 17th century to become one of the grandest palaces in Europe.
The palace grounds include a maze, parkland and several other historical sites such as Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet (a rustic retreat). Versailles is located just outside Paris and can be visited on day trips from the city.
17. The Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali
The Great Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud-brick building in the world. On this site, an ancient mosque was built in the 13th century by King Mansa Musa.
The mosque has been rebuilt around a dozen times. It is made from sun-dried earth bricks coated with plaster.
The architecture features three towers with mud brick domes and a spacious prayer hall inside. The local community takes part in an annual festival to help to repair any erosion to this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.
18. The Palace of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
Also known as the Houses of Parliament, parts of the Palace of Westminster have been used for legislative purposes since the 13th century. A fire destroyed much of the original complex in 1834, and the new palace was constructed in its place.
The most well known part of this historical building is the Big Ben clock tower, which was named after Benjamin Hall (the first commissioner of works). This famous London landmark was renamed Elizabeth Tower in honor of Queen Elizabeth II in 2012.
Visitors can take guided tours of the Houses of Parliament or simply enjoy the views from outside. However, these tours don’t include Big Ben. It’s a fun activity for couples in London.
19. Old City of Jerusalem
If you visit Jerusalem, you can’t help but be amazed by the number of historical places. The Old City and its Walls have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
Located on a plateau in the Judean Mountains, Jerusalem has also been home to many faiths, such as Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall is where many people come to place prayer notes in the cracks of the wall.
According to the Bible, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is where Jesus was crucified and buried. Temple Mount is another important historic site, where the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are located.
20. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower in Paris was constructed for the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle. Originally intended to be temporary, this iconic French landmark was never removed from its site due to popular demand.
It has since become one of the most recognizable buildings in France and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites since 1989.
Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the groundbreaking structure was the tallest building in the world at the time. Made from wrought iron, La Tour Eiffel is 300 meters high.
21. Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous historical places in Mexico. It’s not known exactly when it was built but it’s thought to be at least 1,500 years old.
Built by Mayan people, it also has elements from other cultures including the Toltecs and the Aztecs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for its Pyramid of Kukulkan which is also known as El Castillo.
The Mayans practised astronomy at Chichen Itza and these Mayan ruins are thought to have been used as a solar calendar. Also on the site, there are several cenotes, sinkholes that are found in Mexico.
22. The Alamo, San Antonio, United States
The Alamo is a famous historical site located in San Antonio, Texas. It was originally built as the chapel of a Spanish mission in the 18th century.
However, it’s most famous for being the site of a major battle during the Texas Revolution. A small group of Texans fought for independence against the Mexican army. This led the rest of Texas to fight and eventually declare victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.
23. Pompeii, Italy
Built around 2,000 years ago during the Roman empire, Pompeii was rediscovered in 1748. The preserved ruins are protected as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Near Naples, Italy, this historical site was buried under rock and ash by the eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Around 20 feet (6m) of ash fell on Pompeii, causing roofs to collapse under its weight but leaving walls intact.
The eruption preserved everything from jars of preserved fruit to paintings on the wall to bodies believed to be of the victims. Despite this, only two thirds of the site have been excavated and much remains buried beneath the ash to this day.
24. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, United States
Located on Navajo land near Chinle, Arizona, Canyon de Chelly is one of the best historical sites in the world. It was protected by the Navajo tribes for centuries. During the American Civil War, the Navajo refused to leave their ancestral home. The US Army forced them out of these canyon lands in 1864. The Navajo were finally allowed to return to their lands in 1868.
Nowadays, Canyon de Chelly National Monument preserves more than 5,000 years of human occupation. The Monument protects over 800 archaeological sites! This includes cliff dwellings like Mummy Cave, Antelope House, and White House.
25. Efes, Turkey
Efes is a historical place near Izmir on the western coast of Turkey. Once an ancient Greek city known as Ephesus, it is one of the best preserved classical sites in the world today.
Built in the 10th century BC, the site has many impressive ruins, including an amphitheater which had seating for 25,000 people. Originally a thriving community, Ephesus was eventually abandoned when silt clogged up the harbor and no ships could reach the city.
In 1863, a British architect began searching for the Artemision or Temple of Artemis at Efes. He discovered the pavement of the temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, in 1869.
The preserved ruins are protected as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Efes is open today for tourists with guided tours allowing them to visit the amphitheater, theater, stadium and other ruins. Along with the Ephesus Archaeological Museum that has artifacts from Efes’ long history in their collection, this makes it one of the best historical places in the world.
26. Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is a true masterpiece of medieval architecture. It is without a doubt one of the most renowned landmarks in France.
The sheer grandeur of the structure is breathtaking, with its intricate carvings and stained glass windows that tower above visitors. Its history, extensive symbolism, and the intricate details that adorn the interior and exterior are nothing short of fascinating.
This magnificent cathedral was sadly decimated when its roof caught fire in April 2019. Currently being restored, this iconic landmark is expected to reopen in December 2024.
27. Ta Prohm, Cambodia
Located near Siem Reap, Cambodia, Ta Prohm is an ancient temple was built in the late 12th century. Its towering trees growing out of the ancient ruins create an otherworldly atmosphere that feels both serene and mysterious.
As you wander the temple’s winding paths, you can’t help but feel a sense of authority from this historical site. The beautiful carvings and intricate details of the temple are truly a sight to behold, and it’s no wonder why Ta Prohm draws in thousands of visitors annually.
28. The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
The Alhambra, located in the enchanting city of Granada, Spain, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites in existence. Its magnificent architecture is a testament to the legacy of the Moors, who built this fortress and palace complex during their reign in Spain.
Every corner of the Alhambra reveals a stunning display of intricate details, from the towering arches to the tranquil courtyards. Visitors cannot help but be awed by the elegance and sophistication of this historical landmark, which has stood for centuries as a symbol of Spain’s rich cultural heritage.
29. Bagan, Myanmar
In the heart of Myanmar you’ll find an incredible historical landmark that’s worth adding to your travel bucket list – Bagan. This historic city is known for its stunning temples and pagodas that date back to the 11th and 13th centuries.
A visit to Bagan is like stepping back in time, where history comes alive through its monumental architecture and rich cultural heritage. The temples of Bagan are adorned with intricate carvings and precious gems that reflect the skilled craftsmanship of the past.
For the sophisticated globetrotter who craves more than just resorts and beaches, Bagan is a must-see destination that will captivate your senses and enrich your knowledge of Southeast Asia.
In Conclusion: Best Historical Monuments in the World
There are so many amazing historical places in the world to visit that it’s hard to know where to start. These are just a few of our favorite ancient structures.
We hope that this article will inspire you to travel and experience some of these ancient places for yourself! Traveling is the best way to learn first hand about different cultures and traditions around the globe. Which site do you think should be next on this list?
You might also enjoy:
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Jerusalem
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