There are many famous archeological sites around the world.
From the Great Pyramid in Giza, to the famous statues on Easter Island, these historical sites allow us to see how people lived hundreds, even thousands, of years ago.
For an exciting glimpse into ancient history and ancient cultures, plan a trip to any of these top five archeological sites.
5. Petra, Jordan
Petra is a famous archeological site located in Jordan that dates back to 300 BC. It’s often referred to as the “rose city” for the color of its temples that were carved into the sandstone walls.
Visit Al-Khazneh, Petra’s most recognizable destination. This elaborate temple was thought to be used as the mausoleum for the 1st century king, Aretas IV.
The temple has been filmed in several movies, books, and television programs, including the famous movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Read more about this location and other historical movie locations you can visit here.
4. Delphi, Greece
The ancient Greek called Delphi the “Omphalos,” which is Greek for the center of the world.
Delphi was considered the cultural and religious hub of Greece around 6th century BC.
The importance of the Greek empire can be seen in this city. The sanctuary has been imitated all throughout the ancient world. Kings and other important figures would send gifts to the god Apollo, who was believed to live in the city.
Today, you can visit the intricately laid out city for yourself. There is an archeological museum within the city’s borders where you can learn about the many artifacts that have been found.
3. Ephesus, Turkey
Ephesus was located in what is now Anatolia, Turkey.
This city contains remarkably well-preserved buildings, including an ancient two-story library.
As you walk these ancient streets, you get a strong sense of what life was like back then. There are ruins of baths, temples, and a theater. There are also mosaics and frescos portraying the city’s early-century history.
2. Pompeii (Naples), Italy
One of the most well-known archeological sites is the ancient city of Pompeii, located in what is now Naples, Italy.
Pompeii is the famous site of a horrific tragedy.
In 79 AD, the volcanic Mount Vesuvius erupted and killed the city’s entire population.
Today, Pompeii is one of the most popular archeological sites to visit. Having been buried in volcanic ash, much of the city is remarkably well-preserved.
Ancient streets are lined with walls that still stand. Frescos and mosaics remain visible, depicting what life was like at the time.
And perhaps the most interesting, but unsettling, are the remains of the population preserved by plaster.
1. Xi’an, China
Discovered in 1974 by local farmers, the Terracotta Army is now famous worldwide.
The impressive collection of terracotta figures were buried in the late 3rd century with China’s first emperor, Emperor Qin Shi Huang. These figures range in height and depict everything from horses and chariots, to soldiers, musicians, and court officials.
As of 2007, there has been an estimated 8,000 warriors found, 130 chariots, and 520 horses.
There is believed to be many more lying beneath the mausoleum, which was built on top of the 4 pits that house the warriors.
Visit the mausoleum in China’s Lintong district to see this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself!
History is all around us. Thanks to famous historical sites, we can experience this history by visiting the very place it happened.
What other famous archeological sites would you like to visit? Let us know in the comments below.
