Travel site TripAdvisor has compiled a list of popular attractions around the world according to tourists, from the impressive Burj Khalifa to the stunning Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.
The most famous landmarks in the world
When going on a trip to various countries, tourists think in advance about the route and what attractions are worth visiting.
Below in the article will be a list of attractions that are the most popular, according to TripAdvisor.
The navigable Panama Canal is located in the state of Panama. It consists of two man-made lakes and locks.
The Petronas Towers are located in the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. 
The symbol of Australia is the Opera House in Sydney 
An ancient Mayan city located on the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula 
The oldest temple is Wat Pho. To see it, you need to go to Thailand to the city of Bangkok 
Memorial complexes and ancient temples
Complex in New York (USA) - National Memorial dedicated to the victims of the series of terrorist attacks committed on September 11 
Khalifa Tower, or Burj Khalifa (skyscraper) in the city of Dubai, UAE 
The President Lincoln Memorial is located in Washington DC. 
The Great Wall of China, Mutianyu section, offering magnificent mountain scenery 
Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic. It was built back in the Middle Ages and was called Prague. 
Golden Gate Suspension Bridge, California 
Hagia Sophia (currently a museum), Istanbul, Türkiye 
Alhambra Palace, Granada, Southern Spain. Today it is a museum of Islamic art 
Notre Dame Cathedral in France. Catholic Church in Paris 
Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood in northern capital Russia - the city of St. Petersburg 
Who hasn't dreamed of flying to France and admiring the beauty of Paris from the Eiffel Tower? 
Prison Island
Alcatraz Island in California. Currently a museum, but there were times when this island served as a prison for dangerous criminals. It was impossible to escape from there. 
Milanese Cathedral in Italy 
The Catholic Basilica of St. Peter is located in the Vatican 
Grand Mosque named after Sheikh Zayed in Abu Dhabi, UAE 
Taj Mahal in India - mosque-mausoleum 
The city of Machu Picchu in modern Peru 
The largest temple complex, Angkorvoat, is located in Cambodia. 
Brazil is famous for its aromatic coffee, football and the Christ the Redeemer statue towering over Rio de Janeiro. 
Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona, Spain 
Where to go first is up to you.
Pyramids at Giza are the oldest and largest pyramids in the world, but most importantly, the Pyramid of Cheops, the only one of the Seven Wonders ancient world which has survived to this day. And without a doubt, the pyramids in Giza deservedly take first place in the Top 10 attractions of the world.
These pyramids were built inas tombs for ancient Egyptian kings, uhThese royal tombs reflect power and wealth ancient civilization Egypt.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are more popular than any other attractions in the world, they are located in the western part of the Nile, next to the capital of Egypt, Cairo. INThe Great Pyramid of Cheops is the oldest and largest, it was built as a tomb for the ancient Egyptian king Khufu (Cheops).It has a height of 137 meters, which means that the Cheops pyramid was the tallest structure on Earth for several millennia, until the towers of Cologne Cathedral were completed in 1880, and consists of2,300,000 blocks, some weighing up to 200 tons.
The second pyramid at Giza was built for Khafre, the son of King Khufu.It was erected in 2592 BC, tThe third pyramid at Giza was built for Menkaure, the son of King Khafre.
2. Great Wall of China, China
The most popular attraction in China, one of the seven wonders of the world of our time.It is the longest human-built structure in the world, stretching for as much as 6,300 kilometers.Construction of the first part Great Wall began under Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the 7th century, other parts of the wall were added by subsequent emperors of China at a later time.
Stones, bricks, compacted earth and wood were used to build the Great Wall.More than 1 million people lost their lives during its construction and it became the longest cemetery in the world. More than 8 million people visit it every year.
3. Statue of Liberty, New York, USA
The Statue of Liberty is recognized as the main attraction of the USA, it is a symbol of Freedom, why did millions of migrants from Europe strive to enter the country great opportunities. The colossal sculpture is located 3 kilometers from Manhattan in New York.The statue actually represents the Roman Goddess of Liberty and is a gift from the people of France to the United States.
It was designed by the French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and is a gift from the United States to world exhibition October 28, 1876. ABOUTAbout 4 million tourists visit the Statue of Liberty every year. The height of this amazing sculpture is 93 meters, from the ground to the tips of the torch.
4. Taj Mahal, India
The most popular historical monument of India, located in the city of Agra.It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The architecture of the building shows the features of stylesMughal, Islamic, Persian, Ottoman and Indian.It took 17 years to build the Taj Mahal, and the first stone was laid in 1632. It is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and millions of tourists visit it every year.
5. Eiffel Tower, Paris
This is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, located in the capital of France, Paris. It was named after Gustave Eiffel, the engineer responsible for its design and construction. The tower is over 300 meters high and weighs over 10,000 tons; construction was completed in 1889. for him; s construction. The 324 meter tower weighs 10,100 tons and was opened in 1889. For the next 41 years it remained the most tall building in the world.
6. Colosseum, Rome
This is the largest amphitheater in the world during the Roman Empire.It is also the most popular tourist and iconic symbol of Rome. Coliseumwas built in 70 AD. Emperor Vespasian.It was used for gladiator fights and public events.Gladiator fights took place in the Colosseum until 435 AD.It can accommodate up to 50,000 spectators and has 80 entrances.
7. Big Ben, England
The vast majority of tourists clearly associate Big Ben with England and is rightfully considered the main tourist attraction of the country. Few people know that in fact Big Ben is not a separate attraction, but a part Palace of Westminster in London. Big Ben contains the world's largest chimes and is the third tallest clock tower in the world. It is named after Benjamin Hall, one of the architects of this clock tower, which was built between 1848 and 1853.
8. Stonehenge, England
One of the most popular places in the world, located in Salisbury England.This prehistoric monument consists of standing stones and large quantity mounds.Archaeologists estimate that Stonehenge was built between 3000 and 2000 BC.
9. Golden Gate, USA
The most recognizable landmark in California, the Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects San Francisco to the rest of Northern California. Its length is almost 3 kilometers, and the height of the supports is 227 meters, itwas opened in 1937 and for the next 27 years remained the longest suspension bridge in the world. It is considered one of the most photographed landmarks in the United States.
10. Sydney Opera House, Australia
The Sydney Opera House is the most recognizable landmark and symbol of Australia, located on the shores of Sydney Harbour. This theater hosts more than 1,500 productions every year and is consideredone of the most vibrant art centers in the world. Calculated that over 7 million people visit this amazing Sydney tourist attraction.
Places where every cultured person dreams of visiting. Experts from the world's largest travel site have compiled a ranking of 25 cultural sites that were most highly rated by tourists from around the world. globe. In general, if you have not yet decided on your plans for the next 25 vacations.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, recognized as one of the New Wonders of the World, is located in modern Peru, on the top of a mountain range at an altitude of 2450 meters above sea level. It is called the “city in the sky” or “city among the clouds”, sometimes called the “lost city of the Incas”. Some archaeologists believe that the city was created as a sacred mountain retreat by the great Inca ruler Pachacutec around 1440, and functioned until 1532, when the Spanish invaded the Inca Empire. In 1532, all its inhabitants mysteriously disappeared.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the six largest mosques in the world. Named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al-Nahyan, the founder and first president of the United Nations United Arab Emirates. Unlike many other Muslim temples, everyone is allowed into it, regardless of faith.
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
The Taj Mahal Mausoleum is one of the most recognizable landmarks not only in India but throughout the world. The structure was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and also a symbol of eternal love.
Mezquita, Cordoba, Spain
Walls decorated with intricate patterns, mosaic ornaments, hundreds of thin openwork columns - this is how the Cathedral Mosque of Cordoba appears today. Many centuries ago, there was an ancient Roman temple on this site, then it was replaced by a Visigothic church, and in 785 the Mezquita appeared. It became the second most important mosque on the planet, and the pilgrimage to Cordoba was even equated to the obligatory hajj to Mecca for every Muslim. But then the Catholics replaced the Moors, and Mezquita was turned into a Christian temple.
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican, Italy
The heart of the Vatican and the entire Catholic world, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the main attractions of Rome. Here you can view Ancient Rome from a bird's eye view, admire the interior of the cathedral from the top of the dome, celebrate Mass and even receive the blessing of the pontiff.
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
The Cambodian temple Angkor Wat is the largest religious building ever created, the history of which goes back almost 9 centuries. About monumentality temple complex Even its name says it all, because Angkor Wat literally translates as Temple City. It covers an area of 200 hectares and is surrounded by a moat 190 meters wide. This colossal structure is dedicated to the god Vishnu, revered in this area.
Bayon Temple Complex, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Bayon is one of the most amazing temples located on the territory of Angkor Thom and was its religious center. The “highlight” of Bayon are the towers with many faces carved from stone, silently looking from above over the vast territory of Angkor Thom, and during the heyday of the state, over the entire Khmer Empire. Initially, there were 54 towers, which symbolized the 54 provinces under the rule of the king. Today, only about 37 towers remain.
Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ on the Blood, St. Petersburg, Russia
The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, better known as the Church of the Savior on Blood, became the only Russian attraction on Trip Advisor's list. The Savior on Spilled Blood attracts tourists from all over the world not only with the splendor of its domes and interiors, but also with its unusual history, which has given rise to many legends and speculations. Many of them are related to the fact that the temple was erected on the spot where on March 1, 1881, the Narodnaya Volya member I. Grinevitsky mortally wounded Alexander II, who was popularly called the Tsar Liberator for the abolition of serfdom.
Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg National Military Park is not a park in the traditional sense. Here you will not find shady alleys and flowering flower beds. This is the site where an important battle took place in 1863 civil war in the United States.
Walls of the old city, Dubrovnik, Croatia
In 1979, UNESCO introduced Old city Dubrovnik to the list World Heritage, including a significant part of the ancient walls of the city. They surround the city on all four sides and house a venerable collection historical monuments, including towers, fortresses, churches, monasteries, squares and streets, schools, museums and galleries. Built for defensive purposes, these stone walls have protected its citizens since the founding of Dubrovnik in the 6th century.
Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar
Shwedagon Pagoda is the tallest spiritual building in Myanmar, or, as it is also called, the Land of Pagodas. The entire complex of the giant pagoda occupies more than five hectares of land, on which, in addition to the main structure, there are many smaller spiers and countless sculptures of mythical and real animals : golden griffins and elephants, dragons and lions. The Shwedagon Pagoda became what it is today in the 15th century, during the reign of Queen Shinsobu. It was then that the gigantic temple was finally given the shape of an inverted begging bowl and sheathed in gold from top to bottom.
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool, Washington, DC
The Lincoln Memorial is a majestic temple made in the ancient Greek style and somewhat reminiscent of the Parthenon. It is supported by 36 white marble columns, representing the number of states that belonged to the United States at the time of President Lincoln's death. In the center of the temple is a statue of the world's most respected American president sitting in a chair. Its height is 5.79 meters.
Ancient City of Petra, Petra/Wadi Musa, Jordan
In the heart of Jordan, in the Wadi Musa valley, deep in sand mountains ah is located amazing city antiquity of Peter. Petra was originally a temporary refuge for the nomadic Nabatean tribes. From several fortified rock caves, it gradually grew into a large fortified city. There is only one way to get to the city - through the narrow Siq gorge, which was once the bed of a mountain stream. Petra still belongs to the Bedouins, who warmly welcome guests to their land.
Section of the Great Wall of China Mutianyu, Beijing, China
On no other section of the Great Wall of China were restoration work carried out as well as on the Mutianyu section. This site, with 22 watchtowers that have retained their original appearance, is a real architectural masterpiece. The phrase Mutianyu with Chinese language translates as “valley in which you can admire the views of the fields.” Among all the sections of the Great Wall of China, Mutianyu is the longest fully restored section open to tourists.
Ancient city of Ephesus, Selcuk, Türkiye
The largest and best preserved ancient city on the shore Aegean Sea and second most important after Pompeii in the Mediterranean, ancient Ephesus- the most visited attraction in Turkey. Legends connect the appearance of the city with the name of Androcles, the son of the ruler of Athens, Codra, who, on the advice of an oracle, arrived in these places to found the temple of Artemis. The city got its name from the Amazon Ephesia, Androcles' lover.
Alhambra, Spain
Alhambra (Arabic Al Hamra - literally "Red Castle") is ancient palace and the fortress of the Moorish rulers of the province of Granada in southern Spain. The castle occupies the top of a rocky plateau on the southeastern border of Granada. The name Alhambra probably comes from the color of the sun-dried clay or bricks from which the castle walls are made. However, some historians suggest that the name came from the “red flame of torches” that illuminated the many years of construction of the castle, which went on around the clock.
Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia
The Australian War Memorial is the main memorial dedicated to the memory of soldiers killed during the First and Second World Wars. Today it is considered one of the most significant monuments of its kind in the world. The memorial is located near the Parliament building, from the balcony of which a 360-degree panorama of the monument opens.
Siena Cathedral, Siena, Italy
According to the chronicles, at the beginning of the 13th century, the inhabitants of the city-state of Siena, which acted as the main competitor and adversary of Florence, “called upon their leaders to build a temple more magnificent than that of their neighbors.” So, between 1215 and 1263, on the site of the old temple, the Duomo of Siena was founded according to the plan of the Gothic master Niccolò Pisano. Today this majestic temple is the main attraction of the city.
Milan Cathedral (Duomo), Milan, Italy
The most important place in Milan is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente (Duomo), a pearl of Italian Gothic architecture, which was built from 1386 to the beginning of the 19th century. The third largest Catholic church on the planet can easily be considered one of the wonders of the world. Its hundred-meter spiers tower over the center of Milan, and the golden statue of the Madonna on the longest spire (four meters high) is visible from many parts of the city.
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is one of the most famous long-term construction projects in the world: its construction began almost 150 years ago and continues to this day. Although Antonio Gaudi initially had nothing to do with the construction of this temple, a year after the start of work he headed this project. Gaudi built the temple for 30 years until he died. The reason for such a long construction period is that the Sagrada Familia is built solely on donations from parishioners.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California
If you look at the map, you can understand why the bridge (not golden at all, but red) is called a gate. The main local attraction “let” the Pacific Ocean into the San Francisco Bay, connecting the city with Marin County. This grandiose structure was built from 1933 to 1937. At the time of its opening, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world.
Christ the Redeemer Statue, Rio de Janeiro
The Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous and popular monuments in the world. Every year, millions rise to its foot, from where a stunning panorama of the city and the bay opens with the picturesque Sugar Loaf Mountain, the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and the huge bowl of the Maracana Stadium.
Teotihuacan, San Juan Teotihuacan, Mexico
The name of the ancient settlement of Teotihucan is translated from the Aztec language as “the city where people become gods.” According to legend, after the Great Flood, the gods returned to Teotihuacan to re-create the world. Modern researchers believe that the area of this ancient settlement was 26-28 square kilometers, and the population was about 200 thousand people. This is one of the oldest and major cities western hemisphere, exact age which is still unknown.
Golden Temple - Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar, India
Harmandir Sahib is one of the oldest and most revered temples in India and is the Mecca of the Sikhs. Its upper tiers are covered with gold, which is why it is also known as the “Golden Temple”. The road to the entrance to the temple goes along a narrow marble bridge over a pond, the water of which is considered healing. Pilgrims believe that it consists of the elixir of immortality and holy water. The road over the bridge symbolizes the path from the sinner to the righteous.
If you are still thinking about where to spend your next vacation so that it is interesting, educational and “relaxing”, we offer you a list of the most beautiful world attractions. Here is the solution to the problem, at least for the next 15 vacations.
A brief overview of the world's attractions with names and photos
In the last article we talked about and now we want to talk about the attractions. This diverse list interweaves cultural, historical and natural monuments, known throughout the world. New wonders of the world to replace ancient monuments that have untimely sunk into oblivion are worth paying due attention to each of them.
Machu Picchu, Peru
“The Vanished City of the Incas” at an unreal altitude of 2500 meters is a truly mysterious and awe-inspiring place. The city was founded by the great Inca ruler Pachacutec in 1440. History says it was sacred place Inca civilization, and whose inhabitants mysteriously disappeared a hundred years later. No one knows the reasons why the residents abandoned their homes, and where they themselves went. The only reliable fact is the invasion of the Spaniards into the territory of the Incas in 1532. But in Machu Picchu, the colonists did not find a single person, despite the thriving infrastructure and residential buildings.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, UAE
Among the best sights in the world, the photo of which does not convey the grandeur of the buildings, includes the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in the capital of the Emirates. The incredible snow-white structure occupies a huge area, abounds in wealth and welcomes everyone into its mansions, regardless of faith or unbelief. The floor of the mosque is covered with white patterned marble, the walls are inlaid with gold, and the minarets pierce the sky with needle-sharp golden spiers. The design of the mosque illustratively illustrates the untold wealth of the Emirates themselves and the state’s love for luxury.
Bayon Temple Complex, Siem Reap, Cambodia
What is of interest is not so much the temple itself, but its unique stone towers, silently looking down from their height onto the entire city and surrounding area. Moreover, they are watching - in the most literal sense. The stone sculptures are carved with faces that would be the envy of modern sculptors. Being surrounded by omnipresent faces, you involuntarily experience both admiration and awe. Initially, there were 54 columns here, but only 37 have survived to this day.
Ancient city of Petra, Jordan
Lost among the endless sandy mountains in the Wadi Musa valley majestic city Peter, whose architecture amazes the imagination with its monumentality and eternity. Enough to visit unique city to understand that these very, very sights of the world deserve the venerable right to be on the list of the best. The fortress grew out of several shallow caves in the rocks, which were used by ancient nomadic tribes as a temporary habitat. Petra is well preserved because there was and is only one entrance to the city - through a deep narrow gorge, where it is impossible to pass unnoticed. However, today guests are greeted not by the arrows and stones of the enemy, but by the hospitality of the Bedouins living on the territory of Petra.
Great Wall of China, China
The grandiose landmark of China is traditionally one of the world's famous landmarks and is the longest defensive structure. Its length is about 8 thousand kilometers, and according to some sources - all 10 thousand. It continuously crosses the entire territory of China and falls into the ocean. Why and how such a huge wall was erected still remains a mystery. The most interesting place to admire its grandeur is at the Mu Tian Yu site, which is the most well restored and open to the public.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal temple complex is one of the modern miracles Sveta. Its fascinating history is covered in myriads of romantic legends and tales, and the beauty of the structure defies verbal description. The world's most magnificent sights (photos with titles) pale in comparison to the breathtaking grandeur of the Taj Mahal. The complex is personified with eternal boundless love; it was built by Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, who tragically passed away during a difficult childbirth.
Alhambra, Granada, Spain
Literally translated, Alhambra means “Red Castle”. The muted red color of the sun-dried clay from which the castle walls are built fully justifies this name. According to another version, the castle was called red during its construction, which was carried out around the clock. At night, the site was illuminated by the lights of thousands of “red torches,” the reflections of which gave the structure a mystical red hue. - the most majestic Moorish building in Spain, telling about the times of invaders and colonialists more clearly than any historical manual.
Milan Duomo, Italy
Dozens of sharp Gothic spiers pierce the endless Milanese sky in the main city square. The Duomo Cathedral is the best example of Gothic architecture in Italy, the construction of which took place over 4 centuries, starting from the end of the 14th century. The cathedral's spiers are not only the most beautiful landmarks in the world, but also some of the largest on the planet. Their height is more than 100 meters, and the tallest is crowned with a golden statue of the Madonna, which is clearly visible from many areas of Milan. Like a guardian angel, she protects the townspeople from evil and misfortune.
Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
Another greatest example of Gothic architecture is in Barcelona by the great creator Antonio Gaudi. Construction of the temple is still underway, although the author himself has long been dead. There is a belief that when the Sagrada Familia is built, the end of the world will come. This may be why the workers are actually in no hurry to complete the project. A official version long-term construction - construction is carried out exclusively at the expense of parishioners.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA
At the time of completion in 1937, Golden Gate was the largest suspension bridge on earth, which automatically places it among the world's top attractions. Why is the bridge called a gate? The answer can be obtained by looking at the Golden Gate from above (or from interactive map). The bridge is a gateway for Pacific Ocean into the calm waters of San Francisco Bay. By the way, “golden” is also not just a beautiful epithet. When the sun's rays fall on the red structure of the bridge at a certain angle, it really shimmers with gold - a truly stunning sight, especially in the shroud of clouds or fog that quite often covers San Francisco.
Chichen Itza, Mexico
The remains of the former greatness of the powerful Mayan civilization are best revealed to us in the form of the pyramids and temples of Chichen Itza - an ancient settlement with a rich history and an immense amount of secrets. The reasons for the oblivion of such a powerful colossus still concern the minds of world historians, which is why Chichen Itza is very popular and takes a well-deserved place in the TOP attractions of the world. The main monument of the Mayan era is the Temple of Kukulcan, which is a stepped pyramid 24 meters high. Judging by this and other settlement structures, the Mayans were excellent mathematicians, engineers and astronomers.
Christ the Redeemer Statue, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The majestic Christ Monument blesses the Brazilian capital with open arms from a height of 800 meters. This grandiose structure is ahead of many attractions in popularity and gives a head start different countries peace. Several million tourists from all over the world come to the foot of the statue every year to admire the breathtaking view of the city and the picturesque bay.
Angel Falls, Venezuela
The stream of water falling from a height of more than 800 meters can already be felt from afar as splashes on the skin. And its noise can be heard from a great distance. Angel Falls, hidden from prying eyes in the jungles of Venezuela, was discovered quite recently, in 1935, the road to it is so inaccessible and difficult. The waters of the Angel fall from the heights of Mount Tepuy, which translated from the local dialect means Devil's Mountain. A very appropriate name for a sheer rock formation in the heart of the hot South American tropics.
Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Snow-white lotus petals or shells in panoramic photographs of Sydney cannot be confused with anything else. The most popular attractions in the world, including takes pride of place, attract attention with just their appearance. Travelers planning to visit Australia should definitely include this building in their trip itinerary, because it is a symbol not only of Sydney, but of the entire country, although it appeared relatively recently.
Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar
The luxurious inverted begging bowl, every inch of which is lined with gold, is the largest pagoda in the country. Its territory occupies about 5 hectares, shining with luxury, wealth and Buddhist wisdom. Here you can meet griffins and lions, dragons and elephants decorating and protecting Shwedagon. Just the sight of the spiritual abode of Myanmar brings about enlightenment and harmony in the soul and body.
✓Sravni.ru - travel insurance online, including for visas.
✓Kiwitaxi.ru is an international service for booking car transfers. 70 countries and 400 airports.
Tourists annually: 9–10 million
The Great Wall of China sounds simple and at the same time powerful. The 8,851.9 km long structure stretches across China, and its most impressive section, Badaling, is located 75 km from Beijing. Most of the wall has survived to this day, although it was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and the beginning of the construction of individual sections dates back to 770 BC. Such a large-scale construction was possible thanks to the labor of millions of slaves and prisoners of war, on whose backs granite blocks, stones and bricks were delivered to the tops of the highest cliffs.
2. Colosseum, Rome
Tourists annually: 6.9 million
After completion of construction in 80 AD, the Colosseum arena accommodated 50 thousand spectators who gathered to watch various theatrical performances(mythological dramas), reconstructions of land and sea battles, as well as executions and gladiator fights. In 2010, underground floors were opened to tourists, where gladiators waited for their mortal combat. From the upper floors of the Colosseum a picturesque panorama of the Eternal City opens.
3. Roman Forum, Rome
Tourists annually: 5.1 million
The Roman Forum remained the city's social center for 1,200 years, from the fifth century BC. This square contained commercial buildings and the main government institutions of Rome. The ruins of temples, columns and ancient frescoes take us back two thousand years and remind us of the former greatness of the city.
4. Terracotta Army, Xi'an, China
Tourists annually: 3.6–4.5 million
The Terracotta Army was discovered in 1974. This sculptural composition consists of more than 8 thousand full-size statues of warriors made of clay: generals, infantry, cavalry, archers, chariots, and more than 400 horses. Every s unique features face, hairstyle, elements of clothing, which makes the sculptures even more convincing. The statues were buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang, becoming part of the majestic acropolis. It is believed that some of the warriors have not yet been excavated, since excavations were stopped until a way was invented to protect the paints with which the statues were painted from fading in the open air.
5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Tourists annually: 4 million
Created 4.5 thousand years ago, the pyramids are still considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a symbol of Egypt. We still don't know exactly how the ancient Egyptians were able to build them, which adds to the intrigue and even greater attraction for tourists. Three huge sarcophagi for the pharaohs are located 25 kilometers from the center of Cairo, a city with a population of 11 million.
6. Pompeii, Italy
Tourists annually: 2.5 million
When visiting Pompeii, walking along its ancient stone streets, you can imagine how people lived in the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD. Coastal city in 79 AD was completely covered with ash and pumice during the sudden eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Under the layer of ash, people, animals, houses were imprinted, creating a kind of frozen cast of the life of the ancient city.
7. Acropolis, Athens
Tourists annually: 2 million
The Acropolis is located on one of the hills of Athens and is crowned at the top by the Parthenon - a temple to the goddess Athena, a unique symbol of classical Greece and the origins of democracy. Built in the 5th century BC, the Parthenon has lost much of its decoration, and the marble sculptures that adorned it have "mysteriously" appeared in European museums (there are still unsuccessful negotiations for their return to Greece).
8. Ephesus, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 2 million
Just 30 years ago, Ephesus was an almost completely abandoned Roman ruin in a sparsely populated area of Turkey. But now, thanks to this attraction, the local economy has begun to develop dramatically. The ancient library and other buildings were restored, recreating the atmosphere big city since the beginning of our era, and in the amphitheater, with a capacity of 25 thousand seats, theatrical performances based on ancient dramas are held.
9. Teotihuacan, Mexico
Tourists annually: 1.9 million
Pyramid-shaped terraces dedicated to the Sun and Moon dominated the ancient square of the sacred city, built between the first and seventh centuries AD. With base sides measuring more than 200 meters and a height of 64.5 meters, the Pyramid of the Sun is considered the third largest pyramid in the world. At the same time, the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent (Quetzalcoatl) has a brighter decorative finish: with unique sculptures and bas-reliefs.
10. Hieropolis, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 1.6 million
The dazzling white terraces of Pamukkale's hot spring pools have attracted people's attention to this place for more than two thousand years. Therefore, it is not surprising that the ancient Greco-Roman city of Hieropolis was built here. Extruded from travertine in 190 BC, it is " resort town"has ruins of temples, a well-preserved amphitheater and a Sacred Pool where you can swim among ancient Roman columns.
11. Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Tourists annually: 1.4 million
The stepped terraces of the Pyramid of Kukulcan, called El Castillo or the Castle by the Spanish, overlook the ancient city surrounded by tropical jungle. The Mayans began building the city in the seventh century AD, and then, three centuries later, it was captured by the Toltec tribes. A huge balustrade with the feathered head of a snake - the deity Kukulkan - borders the stairs leading to the top of the pyramid.
12. Ellora, India
Tourists annually: 1.2 million
34 temples, monasteries honoring Buddha and Hindu gods, and numerous caves were carved into the basalt rock between 600 and 1000 AD. The solid stone buildings and the passages between them are decorated with thousands of different intricate bas-reliefs and sculptures.
13. Hadrian's Wall, England
Tourists annually: 1.2 million
When the Roman army failed to defeat the "barbarians" in northern Britain, Emperor Hadrian in 122 AD. ordered the construction of a stone wall slightly south of the modern border between England and Scotland, which remains to this day. Today, Hadrian's Wall has become a source of pride among the "barbarian" Scots, praising their invincible spirit. Along the 117 km long defensive fortification there is a popular walking route Path National Trail.
14. Roman Baths, Bath, England
Tourists annually: 1.1 million
The Celts were the first to declare these springs sacred and dedicated them to their goddess Sulis. Then, in 43 AD, the Romans came and renamed Sulis after their goddess Minerva and built a spa town with the Latin name Aquae Sulis, with baths and a temple to Sulis-Minerva. Later the city was renamed Bath (from the English Bath - bathhouse), and in the 18th century public buildings were built in the neoclassical style.
15. Longmen, China
Tourists annually: 1.1 million
Buddhist complex cave temples 5th-9th centuries, with many Buddha and Bodhisattva statues carved into 1,350 caves and 750 niches, located along the limestone bank of the Yihe River. Some of the statues, of which there are more than 110 thousand, are more than 7 meters high. One of the caves even displays numerous medical recipes.
16. Stonehenge, England
Tourists annually: 1.1 million
People interpret the meaning of the mysterious megaliths, displayed in a circle more than 6 thousand years ago, as they wish. Perhaps they had some astronomical significance or were part of Druid rituals. Now it is a place of pilgrimage for neo-pagans, feminists (associating Stonehenge with the times of matriarchy), fans of aliens and science fiction. Especially many people visit this attraction, located 100 kilometers from London, on the day of the summer solstice.
17. Tulum, Yucatan, Mexico
Tourists annually: 1.1 million
This famous city Maya, surrounded on the north, west and south sides by a wall, and in the eastern part facing the shores Caribbean Sea, reached its power in the 1200s AD. The temples, walls, murals and carvings of the city of Tulum (originally Zama, meaning “sunrise”) have withstood salty sea winds and hurricanes for centuries and have lost much of the features found in other Mayan ruins. However, Tulum is popular among tourists due to its accessible and convenient location.
18. Machu Picchu, Peru
Tourists annually: 1 million
To get to Machu Picchu you can take train tickets or go on foot, as the ancient Incas did, along a path leading to 2450 meters mountain range, overlooking the Urubamba River. Many people dream of visiting Machu Picchu, because this city looks older than it actually is; its construction began relatively recently - around 1400 AD. So many people come here that they are considering limiting the number of visitors to 2,500 people per day or 912,500 per year.
19. Canyon de Chey, Arizona
Tourists annually: 828.1 thousand.
Native Americans have lived around Red Rock Canyon for more than 5,000 years, and 800 years ago they built their homes at the bottom of the rocks. The Canyon de Cheys Wilderness Area is located within the Navajo Nation reservation, so visiting the monument is only possible with a tribal guide. The exception is the White House Ruins tourist route. The name of the canyon comes from its Indian name Tséyi’, which meant “canyon”; they pronounced the word “say-ee,” but it sounded like “de-shey.”
20. Angkor Wat, Angkor Archaeological Park, Cambodia
Tourists annually: 804.7 thousand.
Originally the Angkor Wat temple, built between the 9th and 15th centuries AD. during the formative years Khmer Empire, was dedicated to various Hindu gods. Although Angkor Wat eventually became a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, the temple's architecture still reflects significant Indian heritage from those times.
21. Masada, Masada National Park, Israel
Tourists annually: 786 thousand.
At the end of the first century BC. King of Judea Herod I the Great built a luxurious three-level palace on the top of a mountain plateau stretching over the desert at an altitude of 400 meters. Roman mosaics, wall paintings, water collection tanks, baths and military barracks have been preserved quite well due to the dry climate and the sufficient remoteness of the fortress. The story is known that this fortress remained last stronghold for the survivors of the Great Jewish Revolt that occurred in 66 AD, and it was only five years later that Roman legionaries managed to capture the defenders.
22. Mogao Grottoes (Cave of a Thousand Buddhas), Dunhuang, China
Tourists annually: 750 thousand.
At the crossroads of the Great Silk Road, Buddhist monks carved out 492 caves and more than 2,000 sculptures decorated with clay and paint. For thousands of years (from 6 to 16 centuries ago), monks created frescoes on 45 thousand m² of the walls of these caves, striking both in their scale and beauty. The frescoes reflect paintings about Buddhism, local history and the daily life of the region's inhabitants.
23. Knossos, Crete, Greece
Tourists annually: 705.3 thousand.
There is an opinion that the ruins of this Minoan city, built during the Bronze Age, are the lost Atlantis, information about which has come to us from Plato’s descriptions. It is believed that Knossos was destroyed by a volcanic eruption on the island of Santorini that occurred around 1500 BC. The only thing that has survived to this day and has been restored is the so-called Palace of Minos, where frescoes with images of dolphins, fish, griffins and people of that era have been preserved.
24. Petra, Jordan
Tourists annually: 629.8 thousand.
The ancient city was created by the Arab Nabataean people. Along the narrow gorge there are temples and monuments skillfully carved from stone, the majestic Temple-Mausoleum of El Khazneh and more than 500 more tombs. A thousand years ago, this once prosperous city was located at the crossroads of trade routes that brought incense, spices and silk; thanks to this, the cultural influence of other ancient civilizations is noticeable here: the Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Egyptians and Phoenicians.
25. Montezuma Castle, Arizona
Tourists annually: 573.7 thousand.
The name of this place can be misleading: after all, this building is not a castle at all and has nothing to do with the Aztecs and their ruler. The building, consisting of 20 cave rooms in a steep cliff at an altitude of 20 meters, was created by the Pueblo Indians (Anasazi culture) 800 years ago. Small T-shaped entrance openings retained heat in the home and protected from the wind. This is one of the best preserved ancient rock settlements of the American Indians.
26. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Tourists annually: 572.3 thousand.
The cliff dwellings of the Anasazi Indians (ancestors of modern Pueblos) were built from sandstone cemented with mud between the 6th and 12th centuries AD, becoming one of the largest and best preserved ancient settlements. North America. The walls, plastered in red, brown and white, bear images of people, animals, handprints and various geometric patterns. Perhaps the colors had some kind of generic meaning.
27. Mira (St. Nicholas Church), Antalya, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 544.8 thousand.
The Lycian tombs, with their square columns and house-like appearance, were carved into limestone cliffs in the 4th century BC. They rise above a well-preserved Roman amphitheater with a double vaulted corridor. However, this ancient city is now better known for its restored 9th-11th century church, which bears the name of a local saint who did good to people, St. Nicholas (now better known as Santa Claus).
28. Pergamon (Bergama), Izmir, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 536 thousand.
Izmir in our time is the closest major city to Pergamum, the ancient Hellenic cultural center with an acropolis rising 250 meters above the valley, marble temples to Athena and Troyan, a Greek amphitheater and a library with 200 thousand manuscripts found in it. In the 2nd century AD in this valley, Galen, one of the most famous doctors of antiquity, opened the largest medical center, based at the Asklepion temple.
29. Troy, Canakkale, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 515.9 thousand.
Troy was immortalized in Homer's Iliad, which tells of a disaster that befell the city around 1183 BC. Until the 19th century, the location of Troy was unknown. Now tourists come here to see the 10-meter Trojan horse with windows and preserved sections of the city walls, reminiscent of the heroic fate of Troy.
30. Delphi, Greece
Tourists annually: 500 thousand.
The site of the construction of majestic temples, created among the mountains back in the Neolithic period 6 thousand years ago, was considered by the ancient Greeks to be the center or “navel” of the whole world. A temple to Apollo, Athena and other gods, as well as stone terraces and rest houses for parishioners, were erected here. Greatest influence the famous Oracle reached between the 6th and 4th centuries BC.
31. Gaochang, Xinjiang, China
Tourists annually: 500 thousand.
An oasis city located on the Silk Road between Fire mountains and the Taklamakan Desert, from the 1st century BC. was a Western Chinese cultural, economic and political center until the 14th century. Work on the reconstruction of buildings in Gaochang, created in the image of the city of Xi'an, once largest cities world, are still ongoing.
32. Ajanta, India
Tourists annually: 416 thousand.
Using only hammers and chisels, it took Buddhist monks between 15 and 21 centuries to create 30 caves, each with separate interiors and openings that offered views of the gorge and river. The monasteries are decorated with paintings and stone sculptures of Buddha and bodhisattvas. Examples of magnificent works of art reveal about the lifestyle of Indians in those distant times.
33. Coba, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Tourists annually: 400.6 thousand.
This 2,000-year-old Mayan city, home to the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, was the center for 46 sacbes, or “white roads,” connecting different parts of the mesostate, built of rubble, pebbles and limestone. Coba is surrounded by five sinkholes filled with water (cenotes) and impenetrable tropical jungle.
34. Perge (Perga), Antalya, Türkiye
Tourists annually: 399.8 thousand.
The ruins of Perge are now surrounded by fields and countryside near Antalya, but two thousand years ago it was a thriving Roman city. Alexander the Great passed through these places with his army, then the Romans came and built baths, fountains, and a 60-meter agora ( market Square in ancient policies), an amphitheater for 12 thousand spectators and a boulevard with a colonnade. The site is also known for its unusual stone gate towers, built in a combination of Greek and Roman styles, and for the fact that the Apostle Paul preached here.
35. Herculaneum, Italy
Tourists annually: 320.5 thousand.
Covered in ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, this town is even better preserved than nearby Pompeii. Here a dramatic picture of the last minutes of the life of the ancient Roman city opens up, with its public baths, warehouses and living quarters, luxurious villas, hidden for many years under a 20-meter layer of volcanic rock.
