Global Ancient Wonders
These remarkable structures have reached significant anniversaries—some time ago!
Whether they’re turning 50, 500, or even more, there’s an intriguing charm in experiencing historical sites firsthand. Exploring these locations allows you to journey back in time and envision a different way of life from the past.
Visiting historic sites is one of the primary advantages of travel—especially outside our relatively “young” nation, the USA. While many are familiar with the Colosseum in Rome, which dates back to 80 B.C.E., numerous lesser-known historical treasures await exploration.
Therefore, if you’re in search of a deep historical experience, a journey to any of these attractions can transport you back in time:
Boston boasts some of the country’s most ancient structures.Boston: Old State House
Established: Over 300 years ago
While America is relatively young compared to many nations, it still hosts a variety of fascinating historical landmarks.
Visiting Boston is a fantastic choice, as the Freedom Trail is an unmissable experience that guides you through the historical landmarks of the Revolutionary War, including Paul Revere’s house and the old taverns where revolutionary plans were made (over a pint). One standout is Boston’s Old State House, which has endured the Boston Massacre, the Revolutionary War, and the Great Boston Fire.
Castillo San Felipe del Morro is just one of the ancient sites in San Juan.Puerto Rico: Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Established: Over 470 years ago
In Puerto Rico, one of the top travel destinations of 2022, you’ll find two iconic historic forts. The first, La Fortaleza, has been beautifully restored, serves as the residence for the island’s governor, and is definitely worth a visit.
The second, and arguably more impressive, known as “El Morro,” was built in 1539—only six years after La Fortaleza was finished. This six-tiered fortress extends into the ocean on the Old San Juan peninsula, designed to intimidate any naval attackers. Today, it’s a fantastic place to delve into history, fly a kite, or enjoy a sunset.
Visby boasts numerous medieval structures, including these ruins of a church.Sweden: Visby Cathedral
Age: Over 790 years
Situated on the island of Gotland in Sweden, the medieval port city of Visby boasts a Viking heritage that goes back to 2000 B.C.E.! Nestled in the heart of the Baltic Sea, Visby thrived as a significant trading hub and is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for having the best-preserved medieval commercial center.
You can still admire the city’s 13th Century walls, a testament to its durability, and explore the remarkable ruins of the earliest church built on the island.
The name Kukulkan is derived from the Mayan serpent deity.Mexico: Temple of Kukulkan
Age: Over 1,500 years
Nestled on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, between Merida and Cozumel, is the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, once home to tens of thousands of residents. Today, you can marvel at the majestic Mayan pyramid that stands at the heart of the city, dedicated to Kukulcan, the feathered serpent god.
The Temple of Kukulkan remains remarkably well-preserved, despite being constructed by hand around 800 C.E. It is recognized as one of the seven wonders created by humans.
Athens stands unrivaled in its display of ancient architecture.Greece: Parthenon
Age: Over 2,460 years
Perched on the Acropolis, the Parthenon in Athens is a renowned historical landmark. Crafted entirely from marble and adorned with towering columns, it is the largest structure on the Acropolis, dedicated to Athena, the city's revered goddess.
Throughout its extensive history, the Parthenon has served various purposes: it has been a treasury, a church, a mosque, and even an ammunition storage site. Remarkably, it has undergone numerous restorations, allowing this ancient masterpiece to endure and impress visitors today.
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