Today, we celebrate World Heritage Day! It is the day where we celebrate monuments and sites. Each of these sites tells a story and are vital to the understanding the history of the world. Not only are they tourist attractions, they are also scenic and mesmerising. So, in celebration of this wonderful day, we bring you some of the most beautiful world heritage sites.
1. Hampi, Karnataka
This scenic place is located between the emerald banana plantations in eastern Karnataka. The enormous group of monuments comprises of the former capital of the great Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagara. With monuments that date all the way back to the 14th century, Hampi literally looks like something out of a storybook.
2. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan is an ancient city in central Myanmar (formerly Burma), southwest of Mandalay. Standing on the eastern banks of the Ayeyarwady River, it’s known for the Bagan Archaeological Area, where more than 2000 Buddhist monuments tower over green plains. With places that date back to 1091, like Ananda Temple, it’s one of the oldest and most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. It’s surprising that this place has taken so long to actually become listed as a world heritage site. But hopefully, by 2019, it will finally be on that list.
3. Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park is a nearly 3,500-sq.-mile wilderness recreation area atop a volcanic hot spot. Mostly in Wyoming, the park spreads into parts of Montana and Idaho too. With dramatic canyons, stunning alpine rivers and some of the lushest forests, this place is truly like heaven on earth. Also, it has some of the best hot springs in the world. Yellowstone is known to contain half the globe’s known geothermal features and is basically like paradise for anyone who loves the wildlife.
4. Valletta, Malta
Valletta is the tiny capital of the Mediterranean island nation of Malta. This beautiful walled city was established back in the 1500s on a peninsula by the Knights of St. John. This famous port is known for its museums, grand churches and about 320 more monuments. Each and every spot in this lovely place has a story that is dripping with culture. Valletta is also considered one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.
5. Petra, Jordan
Located in Jordan’s southwestern desert, Petra is one of the most famous and intriguing archaeological sites in the world. It can be accessed via a narrow canyon called Al Siq and contains tombs and temples that are carved into pink sandstone cliffs. For this, the place has earned the name of Rose city. In the 2nd century, this place was abandoned after an earthquake, crippled its water management system. That being said, Petra is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
6. Machu Picchu, Peru
Set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, this ancient Incan citadel still has a lot of mysteries surrounding it. Machu Picchu was built in the 15th century and was later abandoned. With its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar and its intriguing buildings, this is a must visit. It has one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the world.
7. The Pyramids, Egypt
The ancient pyramids in Egypt have been one of the wonders of the world since the Hellenistic times. Till date, archaeologists are discovering new things about these mysterious and wonders. They have stood the test of time and represent a significant time in history.
8. Tulum, Mexico
Did you know, there are at least 30 Mayan ruins scattered throughout Mexico and other parts of Central America? Tulum is one of them! Situated on a rocky cliff which faces stunning turquoise water of the Caribbean sea. This picturesque location was built by the Mayans and is famously known for a large stone structure called ‘El Castilo’.
9. Venice, Italy
Venice was founded back in the 5th century and is spread over 100 small islands. This architectural masterpiece is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit. Everything looks like a work of art and even the smallest buildings contain the works of the greatest artists ever known. With so much beauty, it’s no surprise that Italy boasts one of the highest numbers of world heritage sites.
10. Acropolis Of Athens, Greece
This ancient citadel is located on a rocky outcrop above the gorgeous city of Athens. The Acropolis contains the remains of several ancient buildings that all hold a great architectural and historic significance. One of the most famous buildings is the Parthenon. It’s managed to stand the test of time and we honestly hope it continues to.
Which of these amazing destinations would you love to visit? Let us know in the comments below
Don’t forget to follow us at @missmalinilifestyle to never miss a beat!