There are many preserved historical places around the world, each with its own value, beauty, and unique stories. It is difficult to choose a handful out of the countless historical places, but listed below are details of some of the most astonishing historical places.
These are the most historical places in the world:
- Petra Jordan
- Machu Picchu
- Angkor Wat
- Tikal
- Pyramids of Giza
- Stonehenge
- Easter Island
- Sukhothai
- Great Wall of China
- Lalbagh Fort
- Alhambra
The historical sites mentioned above have made many generations look upon them with awe. Even in modern times, these historical sites mesmerize us. From the magnificent structures to the cultural stories it continuously retells to see its visitors, each historical place has its own lessons and wonders of teaching you. Keep reading to learn what makes each of the following historical places so astounding.
Where is the Most Historical Place in the World?
There are so many historical places to choose from, but the one that gets picked first in this article is Petra Jordan.
Location: Petra, Jordan
Built in: This has not been proven yet. It is guessed to be perhaps as early as 500 BC or even 200 BC.
Petra is a far-reaching canyon carved out as an entrance that welcomes you into the ancient stone city of Petra. The entrance rock is 50 meters tall, and it is said that hundreds of years were taken to carve this rock out.
This historic site spreads out to 11 square kilometers and reaches 810 meters high. This carved canyon, neighbored by many mountains, resides in Arabian, Jordan Petra.
The features of this pink and orange rock give it its other names:
- “The Rose City”
- “The Carved City”
- “The Desert Rose”
- “Petra,”… meaning rock, matching well with this historic place.
Petra, Jordan, is considered by many to be the most historical place in the world and is a renowned archaeologist site.
This ancient city and its glorious constructions are guessed to be built in the 4th century BC. Petra was accidentally rediscovered by the West in 1812 through a Swiss man. UNESCO labeled Petra, Jordan, as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.
Petra, Jordan is located in the southwestern area of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Unsurprisingly, the remains of this magnificent ancient city are Jordan’s biggest tourist attraction.
Petra is found between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea. This middle position of Petra allowed it to be an important intersection for Syria-Phoenicia, Egypt, and Arabia. Thousands of years ago, Petra thrived because of the trading and traveling that took place within it.
Why you should visit Petra, Jordan:
- The remaining buildings, such as the tombs, temples, and churches, are elaborately constructed in great detail and wonder to see upfront.
- Named as one of the seven wonders of the world in 2007
- The fact that this historic site is one of the oldest historic sites today, and is still standing tall and strong today, makes it a fortunate opportunity for us to visit today.
- You’ll be roaming the same grounds populated since prehistoric times.
- Petra, Jordan is famously remembered from the third Indiana Jones movie, in the Holy Grail scene
What Makes A Place Historical?
Historical places can also be called historic sites or heritage sites. A historical place is an official place where remnants of cultural, social, political, or military history are maintained because of their cultural value.
The cultural value in most cases leads to the historical place being protected by the law. Historical places also tend to be restored and sustained in good conditions for local and international visitors to enjoy.
A historical place consists of the following:
- A building: any construction that has been built to give shelter to any kind of human activity.
- A landscape: the visible features of an open area of land, most often beautified with additional décor.
- A site or structure: any construction that has been built for any purpose other than to shelter humans
- An object/s: A historical place must-have, obviously, many years to it. Other than the age factor, a historical place has integrity and significance.
- Age: In most cases, for a place to be seen as “historical,” it must be 50 years old or older. In rare circumstances can a place younger than
- Integrity: a historical place should be quite unchanged physically. This means the physical form and the main attributes of the place are still present.
- Significance: a historical place can have significance in three forms. The historical place will have connections with individuals, activities, or events that played a big role in our history. The historical place will have obvious physical and visual traits in its planned construction.
The 10 Most Historical Places in the World
From the East to the West, find below (in random order) some of the world’s greatest historical places.
1. Machu Picchu
Location: Peru
Built in: 15th and 16th centuries
Small in size but grand in beauty, the 13 square kilometer Machu Picchu never fails to enchant its visitors. This historic place, found inside a tropical mountain forest, is also known as the “Lost City of the Incas.”
This ancient city of Incas, with around 200 buildings, lies above the mountains. The luscious verdant nature blends perfectly with the terraced steps, towering walls, structures made of granite boulders, and more.
Machu Picchu physically consists of a lower part and a higher part. This way, the residential area, and the farming area are kept separate.
Elevated at 2430 meters high, a journey to Machu Picchu takes you up to a lavish habitat. Machu Picchu, meaning “Old Peak’, not only are the human constructions of this historic site fascinating, but the natural flora, fauna, and overall biodiversity are astonishing.
Back in time, Machu Picchu was a very significant cultural zone. However, the Spanish invasion left the space abandoned.
Machu Picchu was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham, an archaeologist, in 1911. In 1983 this place became a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Since its rediscovery, Machu Picchu has been restored and mended. Effort and care go in to ensure this place remains sustained. Thanks to this maintenance, travelers can get a good feeling of what it was actually like to be in this place in the 15th and 16th centuries.
It’s no surprise why this historical site is popular. Its tremendous popularity and surplus of visitors have caused limitations on the number of visitors allowed. This limitation has the purpose of making sure this masterpiece of a city remains intact for many more years to come.
Why you should visit:
- The visit itself is an adventure, but you can add another adventure with this trip by choosing how to get there. You can choose a guided four-day hike, with camping during the route, or take a train and a bus ride.
- They say the iconic Machu Picchu is not just the highlight of visiting Peru, but the highlight of visiting South America.
- Machu Picchu has been named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007
- You’ll be stepping foot in a mixed world of nature and architecture. It’s like two birds in one stone,
2. Angkor Wat
Location: Cambodia
Built in: 12th century AD
Angkor Wat is the historic site that proudly holds the world’s biggest religious monument. This ancient city, found in Cambodia, contains pieces from the 9th to 15th century.
Angkor Wat was built by the Khmer civilization. Once upon a time, this historic place was where the Khmer Empire, ruler of a large proportion of Southeast Asia, resided. After the empire fell, nature alone took over and gave this place an uncanny jungle vibe.
Angkor Wat is so big that it is recommended you spend at least two to five days, to experience all this place has to offer. It is even better if you explore this place either earlier in the day or much later to avoid the hustle and bustle of the crowds visiting.
Dilapidated passageways, never-ending stairs made of stones, intricate carving designs, various dissimilar buildings covered by growing plants and trees are some of the things to expect in Angkor Wat.
In the 15th century, before its fall, Angkor Wat was the world’s largest city. Some of the most famous temples to visit are Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon. Whether you visit for a few hours or a few days, there is a lot to see in this historic site of 402 acres.
Why you should visit:
- Angkor Wat welcomes over two million visitors every year. This city full of culture, stories, and art is one of the world’s most visited historical places.
- Angkor Wat is considered to be Cambodia’s number one attraction site.
- This historical site is so big that it would take days for you to run out of things to explore. There is a lot to discover here.
3. Tikal National Park
Location: Northern Guatemala
Built in: 200 to AD 900
The Mayan ruins of Tikal make one of the biggest sites of the Mayan Civilization. This place was inhabited from the 6th century BC to the 10th century BC. This ancient city may have also gone by the name “Yax Mutal.” The Mayan ruins of Tikal used to be home to tens of thousands of people.
Tikal is found at the heart of a jungle and many wetlands, tropical forests, and savannah. Surrounded by natural wonders, Tikal itself contains human-made wonders.
Tikal contains more than 3000 structures, such as pyramids, temples, foundations, palaces, and plazas. The most recognized Tikal structure is the 70 meters tall Tikal Temple IV. Within these structures is a myriad of arts such as stone carvings, mural paintings, and hieroglyphic symbols.
Tikal was rediscovered in the mid-1800s. Around one hundred years later, in 1950, it was opened for the public to visit and enjoy. Today much of this historical place is restored, but parts have not been fully rediscovered. Nevertheless, Tikal is one of the largest and best-maintained ruins of the Mayan civilization.
Research on the Tikal structures, especially the hieroglyphic inscriptions, tells us that this ancient civilization had very astounding technical, artistic and intellectual accomplishments. This is why Tikal holds a timeless example of the artistic and cerebral abilities of the Maya.
Why you should visit:
- The Mayan Ruins of Tikal is claimed to be one of the greatest archaeological locations in all of Central America.
- This historical place is one of the few heritage properties in the world that is filed under both natural and cultural value
- The impressive Tikal site has been featured in top movies, including Star Wars: A New Hope
- As the Tikal is surrounded by vast nature, you might see wild monkeys, turkeys, and toucans in your visit.
4. Pyramids at Giza
Location: Outside Cairo, Egypt
Built-In: around 2550 BC to 2490 BC
The Egyptian Pyramids of Giza is one of the most renowned historical sites. These three sandy towering pyramids usually come to mind when the topic of historical places arises.
The giant pyramids amidst the desolate desert on the outskirts of Cairo always paint an unreal view. The pyramids of Giza are over 3000 years old, and still, till date, it contains many mysteries.
No one is sure exactly how these monumental structures were built. We are even more baffled at how such enormous creations were made with perfect accuracy and neatness. It is unclear to us what the specific dates and symbolism are. Some of the chambers of these pyramids have not even been entered, let alone studied yet.
What we do know is that these pyramids were made as burial tombs for the pharaohs. The largest pyramid in Giza was constructed between 2560 BC to 2540 BC. These pyramids were constructed around 4500 years ago when Egypt was one of the major powerful civilizations in the world.
The pyramids of Giza include three big pyramids and three small pyramids. The largest pyramids, built by Pharaoh Khufu, has limited access. It initially stood 147 meters high. The other two pyramids were built at 109 meters and 66 meters high.
The pyramids are not as tall now because they shed their outer layer of white limestones. Nonetheless, their current heights are still mesmerizing.
Near the pyramids of Giza are the Sphinx, a half pharaoh and half-lion structure. The Sphinx sits there in all its glory, almost as if it is guarding the pyramids. The Sphinx, and the pyramids, are engineered with overwhelming precision and charm. It is not hard to believe that these constructions were made for ruling kings.
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Why you should visit:
- The pyramids of Giza is by far one of the most known and cherished historical tourist attractions
- These ginormous constructions are the only remaining member of the seven wonders of the ancient world
5. Stonehenge
Location: Salisbury, Wiltshire, England
Built in: anywhere between 3000 – 1500 BC
The Stonehedge is an incredible prehistoric megalithic structure. This historic site, in Salisbury, England, is believed to be over 3000 years old. The name “Stonehedge” may be from the meaning “stone hanging” or “gallows.”
The Stonehenge is a circular fixture created with large megalithic stones. A single megalith is about 25 tons in weight, four meters in height, and just over 2 meters in width. The ring of stones consists of hundreds of burial mounds as well.
These standing stones were built in several stages when the new stone age period transitioned into the Bronze age. Studies have shown that these stones originated in Wales. How the stones were carried to their current location and who are the people who built the Stonehenge remain mysteries to us.
The purpose of Stonehenge is also unknown. Only guesses and myths exist on why Stonehenge was made. Many believe this round structure is related to religious or astronomical reasonings.
Stonehenge was made a UNESCO’s World Heritage Site in 1986. The
The Stonehenge site is now fenced off. You cannot go inside the circle, but you can walk around it. This is done to protect the state of this historic place. The Stones stand so tall that even beyond the fence, you can capture the magnificent sight.
Why you should visit:
- Stonehenge is one of the United Kingdom’s most popular attractions. It is also a rather short trip from London, making a perfect day trip.
- The sophisticated prehistoric design, the possible speculations about its purpose, and so forth makes Stonehenge a very unique historical visit.
- The Stonehenge is known to give its visitors a very spiritual feeling. Some say these circular shapes in this specific location give it a very powerful energetic aura.
While you’re in England, make sure to make the short trip to London. There are many great things to do on your first trip to London, and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to experience them.
6. Easter Island
Location: South Pacific Ocean
Built in: anywhere between 700 and 1100 CE
Easter Island is a Chilean territory located in the South Pacific Ocean. This Polynesian island is famous for the giant statues that look like guarding heads. These statues are called Moais. Hundreds of Moais are scattered all throughout Easter Island.
Sukhothai, located in Thailand, served as the capital of the Thai Empire for about two hundred years. The name Sukhothai translates to “the dawn of happiness.” This name fits perfectly because this historical kingdom basked in peace and prosperity before it was adjoined with the Ayutthaya Kingdom.
These enormous heads are composed of volcanic ashes. The Moais were carved by the Rapa Nui people, who have been living on the island since the 12th century. Some of the Moais remain erect, while some are a little overturned. Some of the Moais has been placed on new foundations, while some stand where they were first made.
The central location of Sukhothai contains 21 temples. These temples are encircled by a moat. To date, 193 temples overall have been excavated and somewhat restored. Sukhothai is claimed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Moais statues come in varying sizes. They can be one meter high or up to 20 meters high. It is thought that each Moai represents an ancestor from the Rapa Nui people. Along with the Moais, Easter Island also has shrines constructed in the 10th century.
Sukhothai is usually overlooked by travelers, but it has many offers. Many temples, Buddha statues, and other monuments await this mystical historical place.
The architecture and structures of Sukhothai have art influenced by Cambodian, Sri Lankan, and ancient local traditions. The amalgamation of several cultural art styles creates the Sukhothai style.
The many buildings and structures of Sukhothai have made this historical place the birthplace of Thai culture and art.
The historic Sukhothai place is made of three nearby ancient towns. All in all, Sukhothai is a huge place, mostly open land exposed to the sun. Visitors should take a day or two to truly enjoy all the beauty it holds.
The Moai structures are the last surviving thing of the Rapa Nui culture, who were mostly killed off by wars.
Why you should visit:
- The Easter Island scenery is truly unique because it is full of nature and untouched by major civilization.
- Sukhothai, despite its rich heritage, is not well known nor exposed to the world. This means you can enjoy the rustic Thailand vibe without the bothersome crowds.
7. The Great Wall of China
Location: Beijing, China
Built in: started in 3rd century BC and finished around 17th Century AD
The Great Wall of China sure does justice to its name: it IS great. This wall expands to more than 20,000 kilometers and winds through natural landscapes such as mountains and forests. This wall took around an entire millennium to build. This wall can be seen from outer space. And this wall isn’t merely a wall.
The Great Wall of China, built from wood, bricks, stones, and more, is made of fortresses, watchtowers, shelters, horse tracks, and multiple walls. The Great Wall creation started in the third century BC by Emperor Qin Shi Hand. As the largest military construction, the Great Wall is of major historical importance.
The main purpose of building the wall to make sure invaders could not get in. This purpose was not fulfilled, but this wall remains one of the most majestic and mind-blowing historical places. Some parts of the Great Wall are well maintained, while others could benefit from some mending. Either way, the Great Wall of China is a must-see for visitors worldwide.
Why you should visit:
- Whether you want to enjoy one area or many areas, the Great Wall can be turned into a one-day trip or a multi-day trip.
- You will be stepping foot on a major human accomplishment; the engineering of this tremendously large construction feels beyond comprehension.
8. Lalbagh Fort
Location: Old Dhaka, Bangladesh
Built in: 1678
This 17th-century historical landmark resides in Bangladesh, South Asia. Lalbagh fort is one of the oldest constructions that still stands in Bangladesh. Lalbagh fort, also named Fort Aurangabad, is a Mughal fort near the Buriganga river.
Lalbagh Fort is an incomplete construction. However, visiting this historical site will not leave you feeling incomplete. Open land with three forts welcomes travelers with beauty and tranquility.
Lalbagh Fort is made up of three constructions: the Diwan-I-aam, an area that was the governors’ residence, a mosque, which is an Islamic prayer area, and the tomb of Bibi Pari, who is the daughter of an emperor.
Besides the three forts, many underground tunnels exist too. These maze-like tunnels have had many soldiers and animals die in them. The tunnels are now closed up.
Why you should visit:
- The Lalbagh Fort is a very popular must-see historical place for the local people.
- You can enjoy the beauty of the well-maintained gardens and meadows, which are always a praised part of the Lalbagh Fort.
9. Alhambra
Location: Granada, Spain
Built in: 1238 to 1358
Alhambra is a fairytale-like historical place found in Spain. Alhambra translates to “the red” in Arabic. This complements the red-tinted exterior walls of the place.
Alhambra began only as a small fortress. Over time it was lavishly turned into a royal palace, castle, and town. Alhambra was built from the XIII century to the XIV century. This Eden on Earth is full of gorgeous gardens and nature.
Amidst the natural landscape, the construction is rich in medieval architecture and urban systems. Fortunately, Alhambra has been restored greatly so people can enjoy its wonders.
Why you should visit:
- As beautiful as Alhambra is in the picture, in real life, it is breathtaking.
- Alhambra is the only preserved Palatine city from the Islamic period existing today.
- You will be able to see up close the greatest examples of Nasrid art, found in the décor and buildings of Alhambra.
(If you are looking to get away by yourself, Spain is on our list of safe solo female travel destinations. So, this might be the perfect place to go alone! Check out the others in that link!)
10. Sukhothai Historical Park
- You will get to see one of the most beautiful ruined temples in Southeast Asia.
- The best time to visit Sukhothai is during the dry, “cool” season, in November to February because Sukhothai is hot and you’ll be riding a bicycle and climbing stone steps during your visit.
- This site is filled with culture and it’s an imprint on Thai art, language, and politics.
Bonus: One more place that is definitely worth visiting is the southern lights. While they may not have as much history, they make up for it in a natural phenomenon!
What is the City with the Most Historic Sites?
If you want to visit one place where you can be allowed to visit many many historical places, then Palermo city in Italy would be your best option.
Italy itself is rich in historical sites and landmarks. Italy is known to be the country and China, with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Italy, the birthplace of the Renaissance and the Roman empire, has 55 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
It is no surprise a city within cultural Italy can be full of historical wonders. The city of Palermo is the capital of Sicily, located in Southern Italy. Similar to Rome, Palermo is full of almost three millennia of history. Plus, there are plenty of great Airbnb experiences in Rome and around for you to stay and enhance your vacation!
Palermo’s history is credited with gastronomy, grand architectural sites, and history.
Here are some of the most famous historical places in Palermo:
- Palazzo Reale
- Cappella Palatina
- Cattedrale di Palermo
- Chiesa di San Giovanni degli Eremiti
- Chiesa della Martorana
- Chiesa di San Cataldo
- Ponte dell’Ammiraglio
- La Zisa
Discover the wonders of the world with our curated list of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit, where you can explore rich history, remarkable architecture, and outstanding natural beauty.
Conclusion
There you have it, the top historical places around the globe. There are so many wonderful creations from the past. It is a difficult task to choose the best historical places when there are numerous awe-striking places that take you back in time. We are lucky to be able to learn about them and visit them.
If you’re interested in learning more about The 7 Wonders of the World, be sure to check out our in-depth post on the topic.