What forms the basic idea about historical sites? It has to be the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids of Giza, or The Colosseum. However, there are thousands of interesting and beautiful places in the world with huge historical, architectural, and cultural potential that do not attract such a flood of tourists.
Check the beautiful places and visit there
10 Lesser-Known Historical Sites Around the World You Should Visit
10) Takht-e Soleyman, Iran
Takht-e Soleyman, sometimes called the Throne of Solomon, is located in the mountains of northwestern Iran and has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List; The territory was inhabited in the Sasanian era. This archeological site was a religious place of worship for Zoroastrians including fire altars and a holy pond which gives it its main allure.
Why Visit?
Thus, it is located in a serene background and rocks hills which make it an ideal place for photographers. You will also note that there is evidence of very early Persian architectural development.
Pro Tip:
Optimal for a visit in spring since the area boasts of vegetation cover in the form of grown trees.
9) The Plain of Jars, Laos
The Plain of Jars in northern Laos is one of the world’s most intriguing prehistoric sites, which is covered in thousands of huge stone jars. They are said to have been used in burial during the Iron Age period.
Why Visit?
It’s still a mystery to archaeologists when it comes to its history. Walking through the site looks as if one is transversing into an ancient rightful, forgotten community.
Pro Tip:
To see the biggest concentration of jars and stunning sunsets, go to Site 1.
8) Hampi, India
It was once the richest city in the world and the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire; Hampi now is an extensive plain of ruin, scattered with many temple complexes, palaces, and bazaars. This town – which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites – is glorious and shrouded in enigma.
Why Visit?
The carvings on the rocks and the large rocks that surround the place, give the tale of one of the most affluent empires of the then-entire world.
Pro Tip:
Take an expert tour guide who will help you discover the secret behind some of the myths you hear.
7) Skellig Michael, Ireland
The film location of Skellig Michael to includes an early Christian monastery from the 6th century is situated off the rocky coast of Ireland. This picturesque place can only be reached by water, but the situation is as fascinating as the desert.
Why Visit?
The stone stairs, precariously tiptoeing over rocks, the beehive caves which were indeed the living structure of the confined world of the monks of those bygone years.
Pro Tip:
Tours depend on the weather and should be arranged between May and September.
6) Leptis Magna, Libya
Known as one of the most preserved Roman cities outside Italy, Leptis Magna or present-day Libya provides an example of a purposive Roman style. An amphitheater, baths, and the remains of a marketplace are also located on the site.
Why Visit?
It is an opportunity to see Roman mosaics and theater without coming to such famous tourist destinations as Pompeii.
Pro Tip:
It would be beneficial if you could get the service of an expert when it comes to exploring this extensive city and its background.
5) Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Located in central Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is an ancient palace and a Rock fortress that has frescoes and images of deities painted on its walls and over 50 foundational structures within a cloud-matted forest and green gardens. It is called ‘Lion Rock’ due to the enormous lion-like structure constructed at the entrance of the rock cutting into the fortress.
Why Visit?
It may be one of the world’s greatest engineering masterpieces and the frescoes, the water gardens, and the view from the top are breathtaking.
Pro Tip:
It should well be avoided visiting the landmark, particularly during summer as it gets very hot and there are usually a lot of people around.
4) Uence feeding Rapa Nui commonly known as Easter Island in Chile
However, as a historical destination, Easter Island remains rather unknown even though it is familiar to most people as the home of enigmatic Moai statues. Some of these statues are big stones carved by the Rapa Nui people – and these are proofs of how resourceful and creative the ancient people were.
Why Visit?
This is a combination of history and nature presenting an extravaganza of one of the oldest surviving civilizations of this world.
Pro Tip:
To add history and deeper meaning to the statues, it is advisable to visit together with a local guide.
3) Kuelap, Peru
Perched 3,000m atop the Andes, Kuelap is a ruin of fortress of the Chachapoya civilization also known as the ‘’Warriors of the Clouds’’. This pre-Inca site stands behind high walls and their original sophisticated stone constructions can still be observed.
Why Visit?
While it is not as famous as Machu Picchu it is just as magnificent and worth the visit.
Pro Tip:
Organize a cable car ride to the site to have a look at some breathtaking views.
2) Volubilis, Morocco
Volubilis:
A Roman city populated with terracotta-headed statues, mosaics, basilicas, and triumphal arches is a fascinating Moroccan settlement. For quite a while it performed a strategic function in the system of the Roman Empire.
Why Visit?
Most of the splendid mosaics are in situ; the themes that are represented are scenes from Roman mythology and examples of Roman domestic life.
Pro Tip:
The best time to visit is during the early evening when the light will be warm and orange and temperatures are down.
1) Göbekli Tepe, Turkey
First on our list is Göbekli Tepe, ranked the oldest known temple that was established over 11,000 years ago. Measuring 49 meters in diameter, it has stone circles which are further surrounded by large pillars: constructed 2,000 years earlier than Stonehenge.
Why Visit?
The show completely dismantles all our theories and previous understanding of early human civilization and the process of their early society’s shift from nomadic hunting to early agriculture.
Pro Tip:
Organize your visit to the region in conjunction with a visit to the city of Şanlıurfa, which has an important history.
Conclusion
There is so much history in this world and every corner one can turn to looks like a historical site. These offbeat heritage landmarks do so much more than give a basic understanding of history; they let one truly engage with the site just as much as the famous one. As a result, grab your suitcase, cross over to the other side of the map, and there, waiting for you to tell their stories are these awesome places.
FAQs
1. When is the best time of the year to visit these sites?
What is optimal depends on the location of the site. For instance, these seasons are perfect for potentially warmer climate countries such as Turkey or Morocco for the spring or the fall; in comparison to the potentially tropical areas like Sri Lanka, it is better to visit this country during the dry season.
2. Are any of these sites appropriate for children?
Most are but some of them demand physical strength through access routes such as that of Skellig Michael. Always check
3. Does one need a guide at these locations?
However, on some sites, you may walk through the site independently; nevertheless, getting a guide usually makes it much more satisfying since it exposes the unseen aspects and histories of the area in question.
4. What precautions I should take for safe and responsible tourism at these sites?
Maintain local non-commercial restrictions, do not harm the environment, and have regard for customs. Self-employment is also another positive way and supporting local businesses also forms a part of it.
5. Are these sites global?
Accessibility varies widely. Depending on the location some, like the Plain of Jars, are meant to be explored by pathways while others like the Göbekli Tepe need moderate trekking.