Ancient Wonders Of The World

Across the world there are spectacular ancient sites to be seen! They are true ancient wonders of the world that should be on your must see list. 

Machu Picchu, Peru

A truly mysterious location by all accounts, built in the 15^th-Century it is one of the most exciting and intriguing heritage site of the Inca civilization. Recently there has been a new discovery surrounding the area where a previously unknown stretch of Inca road leading up to the fortress has been found. This discovery may be the key to easing the access to this ancient destination.

Petra, Jordan

 

Sometimes called the ‘rose of the desert’ situated in the south of Jordan, Petra is completely surrounded by mountains. General associations surrounding Petra lie with the Nabataens but remains have been found there dating back to the 6^th century BC. The settlement here developed due to the plentiful water supply and the natural defence the land provides to it. The Nabataens constructed the massive and impressive rock cut architecture and complex dams and waterways.  To reach the city you pass through a narrow gorge that runs over 1km.

 

Hagia Sophia, Turkey

When constructed in 532 its initial purpose was as a basilica, but was later converted into a mosque and now it serves as a spectacular looking museum. It is a great structure of architectural beauty and a significantly important monument for Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. 

Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Thailand

One of the best preserved wonders of the ancient world, the Wat Phra Si Sanphet was built in 1491. It was the only temple to be located with the royal grounds of the grand palace that didn’t have resident monks. The temple was the also the largest within the Ayutthaya Kingdom during its hay day but was left abandoned after the collapse of the kingdom.

Submerged wonders of Alexandria, Egypt

Off the coast of Alexandria lie what is believed to be the ruins of Cleopatra’s royal quarters. It is thought that the area was submerged underwater by earthquakes that occurred over 1,500 years ago. Below the waters artefacts, statues and other parts of the palace can also be found. The city of Alexandria wants to offer tours of this underwater world.

Acropolis of Athens, Greece

The most popular of all the Acropolis ruins and ancient sites, it is the most important part of the historic Greek culture and ancient city of Athens; as well as being one of the oldest structures in the world. It is enlisted as a part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.

Sigiriya, Lions Mountain, Sri Lanka

Located in the Matale District of Sri Lanka, it houses traditional architecture that is a beautiful combination of buildings and gardens.  It took the sub name of Lion’s Mountain due to the giant lion sculptures near to the door entrances. The area was surrounded by forests, dams and gardens which just adds to the beauty of the site and its views with the sire itself located on top of the great rock. The story behind Sigiriya is that during the 5^th century king Kassapa l felt so threatened that he built a palace and swimming pool on the rock. The rock offered him protected as he built the palace as a fortress with a moat full of crocodiles.

So, when looking into cheap holidays this summer to escape somewhere hot, make sure to check out the above locations, if you want to see spectacular sights.

(Sigiriya, Lions Mountain, Sri Lanka)

(Photo courtesy of Travel Photo Gallery)