The term “historical tourism” describes trips taken primarily to learn about and experience a place’s history and culture. It entails going to places of historical interest like museums, monuments, and landmarks. Travelers that opt for historical tourism can learn firsthand about the customs, traditions, and achievements of previously unknown cultures. It’s a great way to get acquainted with a place’s history, see its architectural marvels, study its old cultures, and value its traditions. Popular locations for history buffs include ancient cities and landmarks like Rome, Athens, Cairo, Kyoto, Istanbul, Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat, and Petra.
The major destinations for historical tourism
The following are the top destinations:
The Chinese Great Wall
Over 13,000 miles long, the Great Wall of China was originally built as a defensive structure. It’s a must-see for any traveler to Asia and one of the most visited cities in China.
These defenses were constructed to keep out foreign invaders along China’s northern frontier. Qin Dynasty construction began on it, and it was later renovated by the Ming Dynasty. Since 1987, the wall has been recognized as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Take a guided tour or explore on your own at this historical location.
Rome, Italy
It is no surprise that the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon may all be found in Rome, the “Eternal City”, thanks to the prominence of these structures in Roman history.
Athens, Greece
The Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus are just a few of the historical attractions of Athens, Greece, the cradle of democracy and Western culture.
Cairo, Egypt
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the ancient Giza pyramids, and the Sphinx all combine to make the Egyptian capital an archaeological treasury.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is famous for its well-preserved temples, shrines, and traditional wooden houses, which offer glimpses into Japan’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
Istanbul, Turkey
Once known as Constantinople, this city connects Europe and Asia and is home to such famous landmarks as the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Blue Mosque.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Around the year 1500, the Incas constructed a metropolis that they would subsequently leave within a century.
Before 1911, when explorer Hiram Bingham III found it, no one in the Western world knew about this location. More than 140 buildings existed there at one time, according to estimates. Dry stone walls were used in their construction, meaning no mortar was used. Some have speculated that this Inca fortress was either a ceremonial place or the estate of Inca emperor Pachacuti, but the true function of this structure remains a mystery.
Temple of Angkor, Cambodia
Located in modern-day Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a complex of temples with origins in the 12th century. It was erected as a Vishnu temple in the Hindu religion. Although it is now a Buddhist temple, the location still attracts non-Buddhists from all over the world.
When in Southeast Asia, you just must visit Angkor Wat, widely regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular religious sites.
Jordan, Petra
More than two thousand years ago, the Nabataeans constructed a metropolis in a tight gorge. The caravan route connecting Africa and Arabia passed via this historic site. After the devastating earthquake of 363 CE, most of the population of Petra left. But for generations following, the ruins were a safe haven for shepherds. Most of Petra is still buried because it is dug into the side of a cliff. The only way into the city is down a tiny canyon known as the Siq, which leads directly into the plaza. In 1985, Petra became a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. It has quickly become one of the region’s most sought-after vacation spots. In addition to Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, The Mummy Returns and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen were all filmed in Petra.
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