5 Historic Sites Everyone Should Visit at Least Once
The world is full of incredible historical sites that can take your breath away. From Machu Picchu in Peru to Chichen Itza in Mexico, there are some places everyone should visit at least once and experience their magnificence.
Here are five of the world’s most iconic historical sites that will make sure your travels are a time to remember.
1. The Great Wall of China
This man-made wonder of the world is an absolute must-see. It’s one of the few sites you can actually walk along and explore, and standing on top of it will make you appreciate its incredible engineering feats. While here, don’t forget to take a selfie with one of the watch towers. You can also try out the iconic ‘Great Wall Marathon’ for a truly unforgettable experience.
For an extra kick of adventure, try hiking a section of the Great Wall and camp overnight for some stunning views. This will make for some amazing stories to bring back home. Do not forget to visit the dazzling Ming Tombs and enjoy a cable car ride.
2. Pearl Harbor
This heartbreaking site of history will take you back to the day that changed everything. Pearl Harbor is an important reminder of the courage, bravery, and sacrifice of those who gave their lives in service of their country. Here, you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. The memorial service held here will surely make you feel more connected to the history of this iconic place.
Before leaving, visit a sandwich restaurant in Pearl Harbor in the Moanalua Shopping Center for a delicious meal and some amazing views. The meals here are so good they’ll make you forget this site’s sorrow.
3. The Taj Mahal
Located in Agra, India, this majestic structure is absolutely breathtaking. The mausoleum was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 to memorialize his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It’s said that it took over 20 years and 20,000 workers to build this incredible structure, making it one of the world’s most iconic monuments.
Take a guided tour around the grounds to truly appreciate the beauty of the Taj Mahal and take a few photos. Don’t forget to try out the local food while you’re here and take a boat ride on the Yamuna River to truly appreciate the beauty of this place. You should also visit the nearby Itmad-ud-Daula and Fatehpur Sikri for a complete experience.
Since this is a crowded site, you should plan and book online to avoid long queues. When planning, try to visit during the weekdays for a quieter and more peaceful experience.
4. Chichen Itza
This mysterious site was once the capital of the powerful Mayan civilization. It is home to the fascinating El Castillo pyramid that dominates the landscape. While there, ensure you explore the ball court where they used to play an ancient Mayan game called Pok-Ta-Pok, and check out the nearby observatory as well. You might even spot some of the Mayan sculptures and carvings still standing amongst the ruins.
Take a guided tour and learn more about this place’s history and its impact on the local culture. Don’t forget to visit the colonial city of Valladolid for some delicious food and a beautiful view of the Yucatan Peninsula.
5. Machu Picchu
The lost city of the Incas is a must-see. Located high up in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is the perfect spot to admire the beauty of nature and take in some ancient history. Visitors can explore the site on foot or ride up the mountain in a cable car for spectacular views.
Make sure to have your cameras ready to capture the nearby sites, such as the Huayna Picchu mountain, the Temple of the Sun, and the Intihuatana. Also, don’t forget to take a hike around the site to really appreciate the amazing scenery and get a better view of this majestic place.
Conclusion
These five sites are just some of the many historic places you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Whether it’s for some unforgettable experiences or simply to take in their beauty, these sites will surely amaze you. Each one offers a unique experience that will give you a better appreciation of history and culture. So, if you’re looking for a new adventure, these places should be at the top of your list.
