While taking a trip through history, do you often find yourself drawn to the most famous Historical places such as the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Taj Mahal while traveling? I completely get it. It’s natural as those are the ones we see in the leading travel magazines. Resultantly, historical spots that don’t get the spotlight go unnoticed. Well, they might not make the headlines, but they definitely deserve a place in your bucket list. In this post, we’re going off the usual path to bring you some of the lesser-visited historical monuments in the world.
Lesser-Visited Historical Monuments in the World
Herculaneum, Italy
Helen from Helen on her Holidays
Herculaneum is a lesser-known alternative to visiting Pompeii but deserves to be on more tourists’ radar. The Roman town of Herculaneum was destroyed in the same eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius as Pompeii. While people visit Pompeii to see how well preserved it is, Herculaneum is even more complete, with the upper storeys of some buildings intact.
Herculaneum is also much smaller and significantly quieter than Pompeii. When I visited I felt like I had it almost all to myself. Springtime is a wonderful time to visit, as the weather is ideal and the site is surrounded by wildflowers.
Herculaneum is on the opposite side of Mount Vesuvius from Pompeii and met a different fate during the volcano’s eruption. While Pompeii was buried under a thick shower of falling rocks, Herculaneum was swiftly destroyed by a scorching 100mph pyroclastic surge of hot gas and ash. Today, Herculaneum is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Archaeological Areas of Pompeii, Herculaneum, and Torre Annunziata.
Herculaneum is open all year round, with slightly shorter opening times during the winter months. It’s closed on Wednesdays, January 1st, and on December 25th. it’s easy to get here by public transport as the Circumvesuviana railway line from Naples to Sorrento passes just a 15-minute walk from the site.
Tickets just for Herculaneum cost €13 for adults. Both Pompeii and Herculaneum are included in the Campania Artecard Pass, which can be a good value option if you’re planning to visit lots of sites and museums in the area.
Matera, Italy
Michela from She Goes The Distance
What if you could experience thousands of years of history that has been virtually untouched? Welcome to Matera, Italy, one of the most fascinating yet unknown historical places in the world.
The southern Italian city is the third oldest city in the world and the oldest city in Europe, having been continuously inhabited for over 8,000 years since the Paleolithic era.
Its recent recognition as Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2019 speaks to Matera’s significance, but it was not always appreciated. Until the 1950s, it was extremely poor and even called the “disgrace of Italy.”
It was when The Sassi and the Parco delle Chiese Rupestri became a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being the “most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region” that Matera began to receive the attention it deserved.
You can’t miss the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, one of the chiese rupestri, or rock churches. There is a reason for the name: this church literally rises from the rock to be the centerpiece of the southern part of the Sassi, Sasso Caveoso. For a secret, intimate view, arrive at Recinto San Nicola 21.
While there is no bad view of Matera, it is known for some must-visit “belvedere”, including Belvedere Murgia Timore, Belvedere Luigi Guerricchio, and Belvedere Emilio Colombo Statista.
Characterized by its sassi or caves, Matera is the closest thing to traveling through time. The best tip for visiting is to absorb the people’s slow way of life and embrace every step with curiosity.
Don’t be afraid to not plan an itinerary and get completely lost (Google Maps isn’t very accurate on the cave streets), as the best part is not knowing where you will end up. Matera gifts you the pleasant surprise of discovery, whether it’s happening upon a thousand-year-old monument or a breathtaking angle over the old, terraced city.
Carcassonne, France
Kylie Lang from Rural France
Carcassonne is the capital of the Aude department in the Occitanie region of Southwest France, with origins dating back to around 100 BC when the Romans first fortified the hilltop.
Over the centuries, it evolved into a formidable fortress, witnessing numerous historical events. The most significant expansion occurred in the 13th century, under the reign of King Louis IX of France, after the Albigensian Crusade, a religious war aimed at combating the Cathar heresy in Southern France.
This expansion included the addition of another outer wall with additional towers and a moat, effectively making Carcassonne a double-walled fortress.
It transformed Carcassonne into one of the most impregnable strongholds of the era, with no less than 52 towers.
The city of Carcassonne has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 and is one of the oldest medieval walled cities in France.
It’s split into two halves, the old Citadel, and the Bastide, the more modern industrial area. The Citadel is a stunning display of old medieval buildings, cobbled streets, and Gothic architecture.
As you walk through the little alleyways into the center of the Cité, you’re instantly transported to the Middle Ages. The best spot is the old castle ramparts, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Languedoc region.
And a visit to the Château Comtal, the castle within the city walls, is well worth a look. But be prepared to climb lots of steps. Wear sensible shoes as you will find yourself scrambling and down ramparts.
Without a doubt, the best place to eat is at La Barbacane at Hotel de la Cité, where they serve haute cuisine with spectacular views over Carcassonne.
If you can, visit late afternoon as the sun sets because the fortress is lit up against the night sky and looks magical.
Jvari Monastery of Mtkvari, Georgia
Raksha from Solo Passport
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Jvari Monastery of Mtkvari in Georgia dates to the early 6th century. Witnessing the dawn of Christianity in Georgia, the name Jvari Monastery translates to the Monastery of the Cross.
Legend has it that Saint Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity, erected a large wooden cross here, leading to the establishment of the monastery.
Jvari Monastery’s architectural style resonates with the early Christian period, showcasing a perfect blend of Byzantine and Georgian influences. The limestone structure, with its cruciform plan and octagonal dome, displays simplicity and spiritual purity. Notable features include intricately carved reliefs depicting biblical scenes, and ornate stone crosses that tell a story of the centuries gone by.
Jvari Monastery plays an essential role in local traditions and festivities. Celebrated during Christmas, the annual Alilo procession, a vibrant and colorful affair, sees locals and tourists marching to the rhythmic beats of songs.
Presently, dedicated preservation initiatives are in progress, striving to secure the site’s longevity for the future. The meticulous restoration process, which is carried out with great care, is focused on preserving the site’s authenticity and shielding it from the erosive effects of time.
Just 25 kilometers from Tbilisi, the monastery welcomes visitors daily, operating from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, and there is no admission fee. However, it is essential to dress modestly, ensuring your head is covered during your visit. For a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, the morning is recommended as the optimal time to explore the monastery.
Callanish Stones, Scotland
Kristin from Scotland Less Explored
The Callanish stones are a stone circle in Scotland from around 2,900 BC. They are older than the pyramids and Stonehenge – a similar stone circle in England that is much better known.
Whilst walking around the stones it is amazing to think that nobody knows why the stones were placed here and who placed them. One theory is that it was an astrological observatory, another is that it was for rituals.
Or you can believe local legend which says the stones are giants who were petrified because they wouldn’t convert to Christianity. Whatever the reason is, they are a magnificent sight.
Next to the stones is a visitor center. However, it is being rebuilt at the moment so will be closed until 2025. Despite the visitor centre being closed this site is well worth visiting. You can still see the stones and there is a lot of information provided on plaques around the stones. The stones are always open and there is no entry fee.
Most people only visit the larger stone circle but there is also a Callanish stone circle 2 and 3 close by. You will normally have these to yourself and it makes you appreciate how big this site must once have been. Callanish 2 and 3 are a short walk from the main stone circle. Alternatively, you can park close to Callanish 2.
The stones are on the Isle of Lewis which is an island in the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. You can travel to the main town called Stornoway by ferry or plane. Most of the flights arriving in Stornoway are from domestic airports. The Outer Hebrides are a fantastic group of islands to explore, but it is worth staying in a hotel in Stornoway for a night to see the Callanish stones.
Copán, Honduras
Lucy and Dan from Thoroughly Travel
Once a large, powerful Mayan city, Copán is now a UNESCO Archaeological World Heritage Site and one of the most interesting historical sites around the world. Located in Honduras, near the Guatemalan border, Copan is of particular note as it is incredibly well preserved, which sets it apart from other sites in the region.
The city is thought to have been built in the Classic Period around 1500 years ago and was ruled by a long-lasting dynasty. At the time, it was an important cultural hub and saw major developments in mathematics, astronomy, and hieroglyphic writing.
Nicknamed Paris of the Mayan World, Copán is known for its large and beautiful structures. Buildings on the site include temples, altars, and a ball court which would have hosted the ancient Mesoamerican ballgame pok-ta-pok. One of the most impressive parts of the site is a grand staircase which is covered in hieroglyphics.
It is believed to feature the third-largest inscription in the world. Additionally, Copán is home to many delicately carved statues and monuments. Visitors should also keep a lookout for scarlet macaws, brightly colored parrots, as they nest around the site, having been released from a nearby rehabilitative sanctuary.
As a lesser-known Central American historical site, Copán is very quiet with fewer visitors, which provides a more relaxed experience. A visit to Copán takes around 3 hours, depending on how long you spend admiring all the intricate details of each structure.
The best time to visit is between December and April, which is the dry season in Honduras and offers pleasant temperatures. The site is open between 8 am and 4 pm each day and costs 370 Honduran lempira (about USD 15) per person, with the museum and tunnels being extra.
The nearest town is called Copan Ruinas and is home to some lovely cafes, independent hotels, and a charming town square – a great place to base yourself to visit the archaeological site.
My Son Sanctuary, Vietnam
Sophie Pham from Delightful Travel Notes
My Son Sanctuary in Vietnam is an important historical and cultural site, attracting many tourists and scholars interested in Southeast Asian history and Hindu architecture. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its outstanding cultural value and unique artistic achievement.
Established in the 4th century by the Champa kings, the sanctuary served as a religious center dedicated to worshipping Hindu gods, especially Shiva. With the decline of the Champa Kingdom from the 13th century, the site was eventually forgotten and later rediscovered by French archaeologists at the end of the 19th century.
While heavily influenced by Indian architecture, the Cham people adapted the designs to their local context, including using local materials and incorporating elements from other Southeast Asian styles. One of the most distinctive features of My Son is the use of red bricks in construction.
The Cham people had developed an advanced method of brick making and laying, which allowed the bricks to bond tightly without visible mortar. Additionally, sandstone was used for carving delicate and intricate reliefs and sculptures.
During the Vietnam War, My Son suffered significant damage due to bombing, and many structures were reduced to their foundation. Restoration and preservation efforts have been ongoing with the help of experts from Poland, Italy, Japan, and India.
Before exploring My Son, I strongly recommend visiting the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Da Nang to have an overview of the Champa civilization as well as the layout and artistic styles of the temples. The site is a popular day trip destination from Da Nang or Hoi An, so consider arriving either very early or late to avoid the crowds.
Gamcheon Village
Zhen from A Love Letter to Asia
Gamcheon Village, also known as the Machu Picchu or Santorini of Korea thanks to its steep slopes, is a village in the West of Busan. (Word of warning: it’s not for the mobility challenged.)
Built in the 20s and 30s, thousands of Korean War refugees flooded into the village in the 1950s. (Busan was South Korea’s provisional capital between 1951 and 1953 and was the only city unconquered by North Korea during the Korean War, so it attracted many war refugees.)
They rapidly built many houses, all crammed on top of each other. However, as South Korea rapidly developed, Gamcheon still lacked basic infrastructure such as a sewer system, so many of the houses were abandoned.
In 2010, the government decided to attract tourists to rejuvenate the area. Together with artists, the residents worked to revitalize the city by repairing houses, cleaning the streets, and creating murals and sculptures throughout the village to surprise and delight visitors.
The result is a colorful labyrinth of houses filled with art that is an Instagrammer’s delight and which, in 2015, attracted over 1.4 million people.
It’s free to visit though you obviously pay if you visit a cafe, rent a hanbok (Korean traditional wear), or buy anything from the shops. Residents still live in the area today, so whilst the village doesn’t have gates that close per se, visitors should respect the people living there.
Part of the village- especially the bit at the top (the main entrance)- can feel very touristy and overly commercialized. One of the most popular things to see is the statue of The Little Prince, which often has long queues waiting to take photos with it.
To be honest, I felt that was overhyped. (It’s just a statue, albeit one with a terrific view.) Nonetheless, Gamcheon is still one of my favorite things to do in Busan and the story of how it changed from a poor village to one of the top attractions in Busan is one of hope that will inspire many.
Kilwa Masoko, Tanzania
Pilar from Tavel the World Pages
Kilwa Kisiwani is one of the most beautiful and interesting historical sites in Tanzania. It is an
island located on the Southern coast of Tanzania and it is one of the most important trading ports in East Africa and the capital of the Kilwa sultanate. It flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries and it played a vital role in the Indian Ocean Trade Network, which once controlled the medieval gold trade.
The Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani include the Great Mosque (the oldest standing mosque in East
Africa), the Gereza (prison), and some other structures. The Portuguese took over the island in the 16th century leading to its decline. The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 and there are still unexcavated sections.
The silhouette of the ruins against the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean is a treat for the
senses and a delicate balance between history and nature. As you walk in between the ruins feeling the ocean breeze, a deep sense of stillness seems to descend upon the site, inviting you to daydream and imagine the stories lived on this stunning island.
Kilwa Kisiwani is located in the beautiful Kilwa Masoko township where some of the most
beautiful beaches on the Tanzanian coast are located and the island’s beauty in itself looks stunning. The ruins are open daily from 10:00 until 16:00 and they are accessible from Kilwa Masoko by boat. The ticket must be purchased beforehand at the antiquities office in the town center.
Kilwa Masoko is located 318 Km from Dar Es Salaam and the most convenient way to get there is
by road on a 5-hour journey. There is a small airport where only charter planes land when there are at least 6 passengers but it is too pricey.
Gede, Watamu, Kenya
Heather Cole from Conversant Traveller
The Gede ruins are hidden away on the Kenyan coast, just outside the beach town of Watamu. Not many visitors realize these ruins exist, so they’re a bit of an insider secret.
Gede was once a traditional Swahili town, and dates to the 12th century. It reached its peak in the 15th century, and the presence of several mosques and a palace suggest that Gede was once a wealthy trading settlement. No written records of Gede exist, so the purpose and provenance of the town remain a mystery.
Gede was abandoned in the 17th century, possibly due to the lack of water or perhaps after a tribal invasion. Today, this archaeological site has Historical Monument Status, and the local region is now a protected national park.
It’s easy to reach Gede from Watamu – it’s only 10 minutes away. You’ll need a car or just ask your hotel to arrange a taxi transfer. For convenience, we paid extra and asked our driver to wait whilst we explored the site. Gede is open from 7 AM to 6 PM and costs 500 KES to enter. Go in the morning or the later afternoon to avoid the heat.
You can wander around yourself, but as there aren’t many information boards, it’s best to hire a guide. This is what we did, and it brought the settlement to life. Note that payment is made through tipping, so take some cash with you.
We walked along the old streets and explored everything from hammams to royal treasuries. We also learned from our guide that the ruins are protected by the spirits of priests – known as the “Old Ones” – who apparently curse those who try to take away stones or relics from the site.
Don’t miss the museum. It’s small but has several Swahili artifacts and rather bizarrely, also a whale skeleton.
The Cradle of Humankind, South Africa
Deb Hendricks from Introvert with Itchy Feet
In northern South Africa, near Johannesburg, lies the Cradle of Humankind. This site is famous for its extraordinary archeological findings. Each of these findings sheds new light on the earliest history of human development.
The area was recognized in 1935 and honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. It’s the location of some of the most significant fossils ever discovered in the field of human evolution. Many of these were found in the site’s Sterkfontein Caves, some dating back at least 2.35 million years.
The Maropeng Visitor Centre, designed to blend into its surroundings, is the hub of the site. Its focus is to educate the public on the incredible fossils found in the Cradle, and their significance. People of all ages and interests will enjoy exploring the amazing interactive displays.
The site has enormous historical significance to the world. But it’s much more than a historical setting to the surrounding communities. For local tribespeople, it demonstrates the shared journey of our human ancestry.
Myths and legends have been told of the Cradle of Humankind since before it was given that name.
The site is open 365 days a year. Ticket prices are R125, or about US $7 for adults, and free for children under 6. I recommend planning your visit during South Africa’s spring, roughly September to November. Temperatures are mild, and the scenery is at its best.
A tip for visitors: take a moment to stand at the site’s highest point. It’s the best place to take in the vastness of our human history. From here you can also appreciate the diligent efforts at preservation that have been made to maintain this window into our past.
Also, I’d advise that you book ahead online to be sure to get a spot on a tour!
Deception Island, Antarctica
Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Visiting Deception Island in Antarctica is a journey into the heart of natural wonders and historical significance. This island is the caldera of an active volcano, is part of the South Shetland Islands, and boasts a unique horseshoe shape that creates a sheltered harbor.
Stepping ashore, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes, with rugged cliffs, pristine icy shores, and the haunting remains of old whaling stations. The island’s volcanic history adds an element of intrigue, as visitors can witness the contrast between the icy surroundings and the geothermal activity beneath their feet.
Deception Island holds particular historical importance as a hub for early 20th-century whaling operations and scientific research. The remnants of whaling stations, including rusty barrels and dilapidated structures, serve as tangible reminders of human endeavors in this harsh environment.
Exploring these remnants provides a fascinating glimpse into the challenges faced by those who sought to harness Antarctica’s resources. You can walk through the buildings and feel as though time has stopped here.
Deception Island was the goal of Ernest Shackleton when the Endurance got crushed by sea ice. The island protects from the harsh weather of the Antarctic. From Neptune’s window, you can see the powerful sea horizon that inspired explorers for centuries. One way features breathtaking views, and the other shows industrial remnants.
After you hike to the top of Neptune’s window, feel free to cool off in the icy waters by doing a polar plunge in Antarctica. Deception Island’s black sand beach is a great place to walk in the water and swim with penguins!
A visit to Deception Island is a step back in time to an era of exploration and exploitation. The historical significance, coupled with the raw beauty of the surroundings, makes this destination a must-visit for those seeking a unique blend of history and nature in the heart of the icy wilderness.
Skara Brae Prehistoric Village, Orkney, Scotland
Suzanne from Meandering Wild
Dating back to around 3100 BCE, this ancient settlement is Europe’s most complete Neolithic village, showing a fascinating chapter of human history. Discovered after a storm in the 1800s, this village now forms part of the UNESCO world heritage site Heart of Neolithic Orkney.
Skara Brae’s significance lies in its remarkably preserved structures, revealing insights into daily life over 5,000 years ago. The village, constructed in the heart of the Neolithic period, showcases a communal living style with interconnected stone houses, complete with stone furniture and drainage systems.
Circular chambers and interconnected passageways form a unique layout, suggesting a closely-knit community. Notable features include hearths, beds, and storage alcoves integrated seamlessly into the stone structures. A path weaves through the village allowing you to look down into the buildings with the sweeping Bay of Skaill in the background.
Skara Brae is open to visitors year-round. The site’s opening hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM, allowing ample time to explore the well-preserved remnants of the past. Ticket prices vary, with discounts available for students and seniors.
Skara Brae is located on the west coast of Orkney Mainland. Tours are available from the Scottish Mainland or take your own car on the ferry from Scrabster and then Skara Bare is a 20-minute drive along the coast from Stromness where the ferry docks.
Monastery of Alcobaca, Portugal
The Monastery of Alcobaça is considered a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art, it stands as a symbol of Portugal’s outstanding cultural heritage and storied history. The monastery was founded in 1153 by the first Portuguese King, Afonso Henriques. Work began in 1178, and it
would be continually developed all the way up until the 18th Century.
The monastery has been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1989, and in 2007 was voted by the Portuguese as one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. Architecturally, Alcobaça Monastery is renowned for the purity and harmony of its design.
The church itself is regarded as one of the first Gothic structures in Portugal, notable for its clean, unadorned lines, which reflect the Cistercian ideals of austerity and simplicity. At 100 meters in length, it is also the largest Gothic religious structure in Portugal.
Alcobaça Monastery has deeply influenced local culture. It’s entwined with legends, most famously the tragic love story of Prince Pedro and Inês de Castro, whose tombs are in the monastery today.
This story is a poignant part of Portugal’s national identity and is celebrated in literature and art. Nearby to the monastery, you’ll find Jardim do Amor (The Garden of Lovers), which gives more details to the tragic love story.
Visitors to Alcobaça Monastery can expect an atmosphere of both solemnity and awe. The church is still an active place of worship. The monastery’s vast dimensions, the ambiance of the cloisters, and the grandeur of the main chapel offer a deeply moving experience.
The monastery is open from 9 AM to 5.30 PM in the low season October to March, and 9 AM to 7 PM in the high season from April to September. As a national monument, it is closed on public holidays in Portugal. Tickets cost €10 but discounts are available for students and seniors.
Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada
Jessica from Next Up Adventure
Dinosaur Provincial Park, located near Brooks, Alberta Canada is a UNESCO World Heritage site The park is an underrated hidden gem in Canada. Many people explore the Rockies and skip this destination on a Western Canadian trip, however, it’s well worth a visit. Visiting this beautiful location in Canada will truly feel like you are on another planet.
Dinosaur Provincial Park was established in 1955 and covers an area of 73.29 square kilometers. The area holds immense cultural and historical significance. Over 40 dinosaur species and more than 500 specimens have been found and documented here making it one of the world’s most important paleontological sites.
The region’s cultural history is just as storied. Indigenous peoples have inhabited this area for thousands of years, with evidence of early human activity dating back at least 11,000 years. The Blackfoot people of the area share traditional stories about the strange stones, which we now know are fossils.
In addition to Dinosaur fossils, bones, and Indigenous cultural importance, the landscape of Dinosaur Provincial Park is stunning. Driving into the park feels like the land is literally opening to another world. You drive along flat prairie grounds, and then all of a sudden are surrounded by hoodoos and canyons.
There is no cost to enter the park and it is open for self-guided exploring year-round. Hiking and walking through the hoodoos is an experience that should not be missed.
The interpretive center costs 2$ per person and has many exhibits and activities. It is open by appointment from Sept to April 1. From April 1- August 31 it is open 9-5 every day. The center also offers various guided tours and educational programs.
Camping and glamping are available nestled into the hoodoos and the sunsets in the park are incredibly stunning. There are no services available directly inside the park, however, accommodations and restaurants are available 20 minutes’ drive away in the town of Brooks Alberta.
Whether you are interested in dinosaurs, geology, cultural history, or exploring stunning scenery Dinosaur Provincial Park is well worth a visit.
Al Bidya Mosque, Fujairah, UAE
Alison of Glimpses of the UAE
Believed to have been built in the mid-15th century, Al Bidya Mosque in Fujairah is one of the UAE’s oldest mosques and the oldest functioning mosque in the land. Although construction was first dated around 1446, recent testing shows a window between 1450 and 1670 AD.
The mosque was built using local materials – stone, mud bricks, and plaster. Its most interesting feature is its four domes, which appear to be of decreasing sizes above each other and topped with a point.
The closest similar structure is the larger Al Hamouda Mosque in Oman, around 600km away.
The mosque is only 570 sq ft and consists of just one hall with a large central pillar widening towards the roof and supporting the domes. Arches between the pillar and the walls divide the mosque into four sections.
Other features include the mihrab, a minbar, wall recesses, and traditional decorative designs. The mosque, domes, and mihrab are all irregularly shaped and sized.
Repairs were made over the centuries, but in 2001, additional materials were removed, and the mosque was renovated using original materials.
The mosque sits below a large watchtower from the same period and overlooks the Oman Gulf and Hajar Mountains. Bidya Mosque is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites tentative list, and as it’s so different from any other local structure, I visit it often and frequently take visitors.
Tourists used to be allowed inside but can now only in the grounds to see the exterior. However, you may glimpse inside if you visit before noon prayers. A local guide is on hand and entrance is free.
After visiting the mosque, climb up to the watchtower, and if you have time, take the short hiking trail across the hill to enjoy the view and see other small watchtowers.
Temple of Dendera, Egypt
Jenni Russell from Jenni Sees The Sights
The Dendera Temple Complex is one of the best-preserved historical sites of Ancient Egypt. It was developed over many different periods of the Ancient Egyptian era, including the Ptolemaic era, the Roman rule, and the Middle Kingdom.
The entire complex sits on approximately 40,000 square meters, and the main highlights of the temple complex include the Temple of Hathor, the Temple of the Birth of Isis, the Sacred Lake, and the Sanatorium.
Another important finding from the temple complex was the Dendera zodiac, which dates back to the Ptolemaic period (1st Century BC). The zodiac contains the same symbols that are still used in astrology today. The zodiac was removed by French colonizers in 1820 and is now displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris. A copy stands in its original place in Egypt.
The 2,000-year-old Temple of Hathor is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved temples from the whole of Ancient Egypt. The temple is dedicated to Hathor, a major goddess in the Ancient Egyptian religion and a symbol of femininity. She was the mother of Horus and Ra, the gods of the sky and sun. She had the ability to cross between worlds and was known for her role in helping souls pass over into the afterlife.
Hathor was also considered a symbolic mother to the Pharaohs, who were considered to have the same status as the gods. Hathor is often portrayed as a cow, which is why the columns throughout the temple bear the faces of a cow.
The city of Dendera is roughly 85 kilometers north of Luxor, making it an easy half-day trip.
Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Chanelle Rosenbaum from Chasing Chanelle
The Recoleta Cemetery covers 14 acres of the Recoleta neighborhood in Buenos Aires and dates back to 1822. It’s one of the city’s most significant cultural heritage sites and is renowned for its stunning mix of architecture, intricate statues, and elaborate mausoleums.
The cemetery holds cultural and historical significance as the final resting place for many of Argentina’s influential figures from the past 200 years, including political leaders, artists, Nobel Prize winners, and prominent local families. Most notably, it’s where the iconic Argentine actress, activist, politician, and First Lady, Eva Perón was laid to rest.
Although a graveyard might seem like a strange site to visit, the Recoleta Cemetery is one of Buenos Aires’ most popular attractions, combining the city’s rich history with beautiful art. It features a mix of architectural styles, including neoclassical, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau. The impressive mausoleums showcase intricate details, marble sculptures, and elaborate tombs resembling small chapels.
The cemetery’s most notable features include the impressive entrance gate, central chapel, and the tombs of Eva Perón and former Argentine presidents Raúl Alfonsín and Domingo Faustino Sarmiento. But exploring the cemetery isn’t just about visiting these key sites.
Walking through the network of alleyways brings on a sense of peace and reflection, as you learn about Argentina’s history and contemplate the lives of the historical figures who now rest here.
The cemetery is generally well-preserved, with ongoing restoration efforts being made to preserve the site’s historical and architectural integrity. 90 of the cemetery’s tombs and mausoleums are listed as historical monuments and are maintained by the government. Whereas the rest are maintained by the families of the deceased.
The Recoleta Cemetery is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily and can be visited all year round. Entry costs 1400 pesos for foreigners but is free for Argentina residents.
Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco
Sara Young from Big Adventures With Little Feet
My boyfriend’s favorite movie of all time is Gladiator. This meant that when we were in Morocco this summer we just had to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou, where famous scenes from the movie were filmed. You’ll also recognize it from Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Mummy.
A ksar is a pre-Saharan town made up of houses crowded together within defensive walls, all made using earthen construction techniques. There are angled towers protecting the town as well as gates and as well some dwellings that resemble small castles. Inside it also contains a mosque, a public square, a caravanserai, and two cemeteries, all dating back to the 17th century.
What makes this such an exciting ksar to visit is that it has been so beautifully restored and once there you can imagine its energy during its heyday as a key point on the trade route between Marrakech and Sudan.
The Ksar is free to visit, however, if you want to enter a private house (kasbah) then you will be expected to pay a small fee of around 20 dirhams. You can hire a local guide to take you around, however, if you just walk around you’ll find souvenir shops and art galleries inside the houses, plus quite a few references to Gladiator.
If you head to the top of the ksar then you’ll get to the grain store (agadir) which has incredible views of the surrounding Atlas Mountains. There are still ongoing restoration works, particularly at the Agadir, which are to be expected as the earth buildings need constant repair work.
The best time of day to visit is at sunrise when the sun casts an orange glow over the ksar. It’s also very quiet so you’re not caught in the hustle and bustle of day trippers coming from Marrakesh.
We’d highly recommend staying at Hotel La Kasbah, as they have a beautiful terrace overlooking the Ksar. A highlight for us was enjoying the view over breakfast.
San Agustin Archeological Park, Colombia
Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
The San Agustín Archaeological Park is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the lovely city of San Agustin in Colombia. At the park, you can find monolithic sculptures and tombs that date back to the 1st to the 8th century A.D.
They exhibit a unique blend of mythological and real-world elements, ranging from human figures to animals. Up until this day, scientists have not been able to figure out the exact meaning behind these statues.
While the main site in the area is the San Agustin Archaeological Park, there are several sites around San Agustin that you can visit too. The entrance ticket for the San Agustin Archaeological Park also allows you to visit two sites further afield near the town of Isnos, the Alto de Los Idolos and Alto de Las Piedras.
Furthermore, there are smaller sites scattered across the town, some of them free to visit and others located on private properties that are accessible by paying a small fee. The most notable ones are El Tablon, La Chaquira, El Purutal, and La Pelota.
The park’s role in local culture is profound, with traditions and legends woven around these mysterious sculptures. You can feel the pride and connectedness that the locals feel with their mysterious past and they love to express themselves through their ancestral heritage, whether it’s through cooking, handicrafts, or decoration of their houses, guesthouses, and hotels.
As a traveler, you will be in absolute awe about the beauty of the archaeological sites but even more about the mystique of the sculptures and the atmosphere of wonder they create.
San Agustin Archaeological Park is open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM, except on Tuesday. The ticket price is 65.000 COP per person
