Although people often think of the past as a time of simplicity, the truth is that ancestors were capable of creating some truly impressive feats of engineering. From towering temples to vast burial mounds, prehistoric monuments can be found worldwide. Here are four that are definitely worth a visit:
1. Stonehenge, England
Situated on the Salisbury Plain in southern England, Stonehenge is one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world. One of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world, Stonehenge is a stone circle built in England around 5,000 years ago. The precise purpose of Stonehenge is still a mystery, but it is thought to have been used as a burial ground or a place of worship. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and its unique layout never fails to mesmerize visitors. Visitors can walk around the stone circle and marvel at its size and scale. It is one of the most iconic symbols of British culture.
When planning your trip to Stonehenge, be sure to check the weather in advance. The stone circle is located on open grassland and can get windy. You should also wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking. What’s crucial is securing your ticket early. To have an organized trip to Stonehenge from London, get some tickets online. This can be an escape route from the queues and waiting times. Look for sites that make you confident hence pick only the credible ones. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Stonehenge at sunrise or sunset, when the sun aligns with the stones.
2. Machu Picchu, Peru
No trip to Peru is complete without a visit to the world-famous Inca site of Machu Picchu. Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, this pre-Columbian city is an astonishing feat of engineering, boasting intricate stonework, sweeping terraces, and breathtaking mountain views. Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of more than 7,000 feet, and mountains surround it. The city was built with stone walls and terraces, including many temples and palaces. The most famous structure in Machu Picchu is the Temple of the Sun, a sizable sun-shaped platform that was helpful for religious ceremonies.
Today, Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors worldwide each year. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting during the shoulder season. The ruins are incredibly well-preserved, and the setting is truly breathtaking. Regardless of when you go, a trip to Machu Picchu will surely be an unforgettable experience.
You can arrive at the monument in various ways. The most common is taking a train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, the closest town. The journey takes about three hours, and several companies operate trains to Machu Picchu. You can also hike the Inca Trail, a four-day trek that ends in the ancient city.
3. The Great Pyramids, Egypt
Few prehistoric monuments are as iconic or well-preserved as Egypt’s Great Pyramids. These massive structures were built over 4,500 years ago and remain some of the most impressive feats of human engineering. The Great Pyramids were initially constructed as tombs for pharaohs and served as burial chambers and grand public monuments.
Today, they are one of Egypt’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors worldwide. The Great Pyramids are an awe-inspiring sight, offering a unique glimpse into the history and culture of ancient Egypt. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, visiting the Great Pyramids is worthwhile. You can fly to Cairo International Airport and take a taxi or bus to Giza. You can also take the metro, which is the cheapest option. Once in Giza, you can walk or take a horse-drawn carriage to the pyramids.
4. The Colosseum, Italy
The Colosseum is one of the most iconic buildings of the Roman Empire and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. Built in 70-80 AD, the Colosseum was originally a free-standing amphitheater. The structure’s interior is just as impressive, with an ample open space that was once used for seating spectators. The Colosseum was used for various public events, including gladiator fights, animal hunts, and executions.
Although the Colosseum is now a ruin, it is still an incredible sight and a fascinating place to visit. The Colosseum has also been featured in many films and TV shows, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. If you’re ever in Rome, check out this magnificent structure.
As you can see, many prehistoric monuments worldwide are worth visiting. Each has its unique story to tell, and they all offer a glimpse into a fascinating period of history. So if you ever get the chance to travel back in time, add these destinations to your list.