One of the many benefits that traveling bestows upon us is the exploration of different cultures and unearthing the history of a different civilization. For any history buff, the world offers a wide spectrum of options to choose from. Every country has its own unique story to tell and different cultures, tribes and empires have left their mark in several countries. However, the cost of air tickets can prove to be a major hurdle in your quest to go globe-trotting and can put the best-laid plans to rest. Fret not as with the convenience of inexpensive air bookings and cheap flight tickets, there are some great deals to be had on honeymoon packages along with superlative offers on Europe Tour Packages.
Our planet is blessed with incredible and unbelievable sights and sounds which are both natural and man-made. When you’re dying to learn more about the worlds’ history, all you have to do is look for the best deals on flight tickets booking and decide which location you want to visit next. There are so many mind-blowing structures and places scattered across the globe which beg to ask the question; how were such intricate and stunning buildings constructed back in ancient times without the aid of technology?
It is often said that the more you understand about the past, the better you can comprehend why people act the way they do in the present. In your quest to go back in time, we have compiled a list of the most historical cities around the world that merits a visit at least once in your lifetime.
- 1. Athens, Greece
Greece’s capital city, Athens is flanked by the three hills, Mt Ymettos, Parnitha and Pendeli, and lies by the Mediterranean Sea. Athens is a city of prime historical importance not only in Greek history but also in World history and has played a significant role in shaping the Western world into what it is today. Inhabited for over 7000 years, Athens plays host to a bevy of ruins and monuments dedicated to Greek gods like The Acropolis, Parthenon, Syntagma Square, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the old Olympic Stadium.
The Acropolis, in particular, has captivated the hearts of millions of tourists from around the world. Located on a 150 m tall rock, Acropolis means “high city” in Greek and is a fine reminder of the extraordinary skill and beauty which existed in the ancient world. However, it would be unfair to just put the limelight squarely on Acropolis only considering Athens is filled with several other historical monuments of great importance. For instance, the legendary 2500-year old temple, Parthenon is an architectural marvel and is an ancient temple dedicated to the Greek God, Athena. A fine testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the Greek civilization, this astounding temple provides breathtaking views of Athens and its nearby ruins.
Other noteworthy structures of repute include the Circuit Walls, Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion and Arrephorion. Athens still serves as a bustling metropolis and has played a crucial role in shaping modern culture, drama, entertainment, finance, and science.
Dating all the way back to 11th century BC, chaos, exuberance, and indiscretion, is what defines Varanasi at its best. One of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi is as vibrant and colorful as ever. Mark Twain famously had this to say when asked about Varanasi; “Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” Considered as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the worlds, several archaeological studies and evidence have pegged Varanasi to be as old as 3000 BC!
Known in mythology as Kashi, Varanasi is also known as the spiritual capital of India and enjoys being one of the seven holy cities as listed in Hinduism. Owing to its devotion to lord Shiva, this city is often referred to as the “The City of Shiva” as well. Varanasi is not all about religion, it also holds the distinction of being a reputed centre of education. It currently holds four universities including Banaras Hindu University (BHU) which is famed as one of the most eminent universities in India.
With around an estimated 23,000 temples in and around Varanasi, this city is a major center for pilgrimage and the living symbol of Hindu renaissance which definitely needs to be on one’s bucket list.
One of the world’s greatest megacities and home to the magical and scintillating pyramids, Giza is a city drenched in history and is also popularly known as the hub of Egyptian history. Home to the only surviving ancient wonder, the pyramid is the biggest one in Giza Necropolis. Rich in historic finery, Giza is full of vigour and you will see an abundance of history at ever nook and corner that spans across centuries.
From the mysterious Great Sphinx and the Citadel of Saladin to The Hanging Church known as Al-Muallaka and an array of museums, Giza is where you really get a feel for Ancient Egyptian history. Over 3,000 years old, the pyramids are shrouded in mystery as there is no proper documentation or even an inkling for that matter of how this was built and what purpose it serves. To add to the mystery, the pyramids align with the stars and the solstices.
They also contain several unopened chambers that still haven’t been and cannot be opened. Although several mysterious and conspiracy theories exist, most people believe that this sacred site was used for the burial of pharaohs. Whatever your interpretation may be regarding the history, one thing is for sure, one can’t help but be in awe of this brilliant and magical structure which has stood the test of time.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
Located in southern Peru, Machu Picchu (meaning ‘Old Peak’ in the Quechua language) is one of the most popular hikes in the world. This 26-mile ancient trail lies on top of a mountain and was laid down by the Incas and takes you through mind-boggling inclines and declines. This basically means only it’s only accessible by train or a four-day trek.
Right from the sacred valley to Machu Picchu, you get a chance to absorb the serene atmosphere while walking on ancient stone steps. Rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911, this expedition involves exploring grand ruins, dense rainforests, and spectacular white-tipped mountain views and of course, ending the hike at one of the world’s greatest sights, the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
One of the most fascinating bits about this magical city is that it’s completely invisible when looked from below. The magnificence only begins to unfurl when you begin to get closer to this small but enigmatic city.Built in 15th-century, Machu Picchu is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and currently one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. One of the most spectacular remains of the Inca civilisation, Machu Picchu is undoubtedly South America’s most famous trail and the best time to go here is between May and September.