UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places of cultural, historical, or natural significance that have been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for their outstanding universal value to humanity. There are currently 1,154 sites located in 167 countries around the world. From the awe-inspiring ancient ruins of Petra to the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef, these sites are truly worth visiting.In this blog, we have listed nine of our favourite UNESCO World Heritage Sites to help you plan your next holiday.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city situated in the Andes Mountains in Peru. It was built in the 15th century and abandoned a century later during the Spanish conquest. The site remained hidden from the world until 1911 when it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham. The site’s breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including temples, terraces, and residential areas.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is a temple complex located in Cambodia and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. It was built in the 12th century by the Khmer Empire and served as a Hindu temple before becoming a Buddhist temple. The site features intricate carvings and elaborate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Visitors can explore the main temple as well as the surrounding temples and ruins.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is an ancient city located in Jordan that was built by the Nabataean people over 2,000 years ago. The city was lost for centuries until it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. The site is famous for its rock-cut architecture, including the iconic Treasury building. Visitors can explore the narrow rock-cut canyons, temples, tombs, and other structures.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
The Great Barrier Reef is a vast marine ecosystem off the coast of Australia and is the world’s largest coral reef system. It is home to a diverse array of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish, 400 species of coral, and numerous other marine creatures. Visitors can go scuba diving or snorkelling to experience the beauty of the reef up close or take a scenic flight over the reef to appreciate its scale and beauty.
Yellowstone National Park, USA
Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world and is located in the western United States. It was established in 1872 and covers an area of over 2 million acres. The park is famous for its geothermal features, including Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts every 90 minutes. Visitors can also explore the park’s wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India, and is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It was built in the 17th century by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The building features intricate carvings, inlaid semi-precious stones, and elaborate gardens. Visitors can explore the building and its surroundings, including the Yamuna River and the nearby Red Fort.
Stonehenge, UK
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, and is one of the most famous ancient sites in the world. It was built over 5,000 years ago and consists of a ring of standing stones, each weighing up to 25 tons. The purpose of the monument remains a mystery, but it is believed to have been used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its history and significance.
Acropolis, Greece
The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located in Athens, Greece, and is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. It was built in the 5th century BC and served as the centre of the city’s religious and cultural life. The most famous building on the site is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Visitors can explore the various temples, sanctuaries, and other buildings on the site and enjoy the panoramic views of Athens.
Historic Centre of Rome, Italy
The Historic Centre of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes some of the most famous landmarks in Italy. It covers an area of over 4,000 hectares and includes ancient monuments, churches, and palaces. Some of the highlights of the site include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Visitors can stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the city’s stunning architecture and rich history.
We hope this blog has inspired you to add these UNESCO World Heritage Sites to your travel bucket list. Visiting these sites can be a life-changing experience, and we encourage you to add them to your travel itinerary.At Paradise Isle Holidays, we are committed to providing our clients with the best travel experiences possible. If you’re looking for a hassle-free travel experience, our team of experts can help you plan your next adventure, from flights and accommodation to tours and activities.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the world’s most fascinating sites. So why wait? Book your next holiday with us today.