If you're looking for a destination rich in historical monuments, buildings, and winding streets, you're in the right place! Check out these six cities for a dose of well-preserved history and ancient architecture.
Athens: The Cradle of Democracy
As the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens, Greece, is a treasure trove of ancient history. At the Acropolis, perched on a rocky outcrop above the city, you can explore the Parthenon, a symbol of classical Greek architecture, and then explore the remains of temples dedicated to Athena and other gods.
The nearby Ancient Agora provides insights into daily life in ancient Greece, as it was formerly the center of Athens. Political gatherings and juries were the norm in this ancient neighborhood. Today, this large space has an abundance of greenery and ancient ruins to explore. You can also visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years.
Machu Picchu: Incan Engineering Marvel
Hidden in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is proof of the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Accessible via the famous Inca Trail or by train, this mountaintop citadel offers breathtaking views and well-preserved dry-stone walls.
While you're here, you can marvel at the precision of Inca stonework, explore sacred temples and residential areas, and contemplate the site's mysterious purpose and eventual abandonment – no one really knows what it was built for.
Rome: The Eternal City
Rome, Italy, is a paradise for history buffs. The Colosseum, a symbol of ancient Roman engineering, is the largest amphitheater ever built and remains the largest amphitheater in the world. Nearby, the Roman Forum served as the political, social, and commercial hub of the Roman Empire. Walk down this ancient avenue and marvel at the ruins of this historical marketplace.
Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, offers a glimpse into the power and influence of the Catholic Church throughout history. After exploring the massive basilica, you can tour the Vatican Museums to get a dose of Renaissance art and Roman sculptures.
In between all of the Roman sightseeing, don't forget to recharge with some gelato!
Boston: Cradle of the American Revolution
As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. The Freedom Trail will take you through incredible sites and monuments like the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and the site of the Boston Massacre.
The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum will give you an immersive experience of the events leading up to the American Revolutionary War. You can also stroll through historic neighborhoods like Beacon Hill, which has colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.
London: A Tapestry of History
London, England, provides the perfect blend of ancient and modern history. The Tower of London, dating back to the 11th century, formerly served as a royal palace, fortress, and prison. The British Museum houses an unparalleled collection of artifacts from around the world, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey should also be on your travel bucket list – you can learn about the pomp and pageantry of British monarchy and tradition at these two massive structures. Don't miss the Changing of the Guard Ceremony in front of Buckingham Palace!
Cairo: Gateway to Ancient Egypt
Cairo, Egypt, is a living testament to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization. The Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, are among the most iconic monuments in the world. With its enigmatic smile, the Sphinx guards the plateau where these ancient wonders stand. The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square showcases a vast array of artifacts, 120,000 to be exact, including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Final thoughts
These cities offer history lovers a wealth of experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to tracing the footsteps of historical figures. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, pivotal moments in world history, or the evolution of cultures over time, these destinations should definitely be on your travel bucket list!
