If you’re ever in doubt about which local sites to see during your travels, you can always count on a UNESCO World Heritage Site to offer an awe-inspiring excursion. There are nearly 1,000 of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world, each noted for its cultural or physical significance. While you may not be able to visit them all, here are seven sites to put at the top of your travel list.
Great Barrier Reef
As one of the seven wonders of the natural world, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef offers some of the world’s most spectacular underwater sights. With more than 400 types of coral and 1,500 species of fish, you’ll find plenty of wonder under this sea.
Taj Mahal
The towering white marble of the Taj Mahal is a structure of undeniable beauty. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Shah Jahan’s late wife, the Taj Mahal continues to be revered as one of the world’s top pieces of architectural art. Its domes and towers are reflected in the raised pool that stretches out from the grand palace, and the undying romance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is only topped during a full moon, when the Taj Mahal is open for night viewing.
Grand Canyon
Arizona’s spectacular water-carved canyon is a testament to the power of Mother Nature. From the top of the canyon, you’ll have expansive views of the red- and orange-hued mesas, plateaus and peaks that make the Grand Canyon one of the seven wonders of the natural world. After taking in the sights from above, you can ride a mule down into the canyon itself.
Machu Picchu
This mysterious and pristinely preserved Peruvian city sits high above the Sacred Valley on a mountain better known as the Lost City of the Incas. Past the grassy gardens and pavilions, you’ll discover historic cultural sites like the stone-carved Intihuatana, the Inca’s great astronomical clock, and the Temple of the Sun, a sacred site of worship.
Old City of Jerusalem
As one of the most important religious sites in the world, the Old City of Jerusalem is an undeniably holy city. Highlights of the Old City include the colorful mosaics of the Dome of the Rock, an important shrine for Christian, Jewish and Islamic faith; the Wailing Wall, a Jewish pilgrimage site; and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which Christians believe to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection.
Angkor Wat
The ancient archaeological ruins of Angkor Wat offer a glimpse into the once-great Khmer Empire. The five stoney spires of this sacred temple are actually a recreation of Mt. Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu faith. Throughout the temple, you’ll be awestruck by the intricate sculptures and relief carvings of various Hindu gods and lore.
Prambanan Temple Compounds
This Indonesian temple and its astounding stone carvings of the Hindu epic Ramayana are the country’s largest dedication to the god Shiva. Three spires tower above the compound, each dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. Hundreds of shrines and temples offer a look at both Indonesia’s religious and artistic past.
(Main image: rachel in wonderland used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
