Top 5 Summer Travel Spots for Ancient History Lovers

Long before modern technology, ancient civilizations constructed incredible structures like Petra and the Temple of Garni that continue to inspire awe. These architectural marvels, often built as monuments to gods or rulers, show the ingenuity, power, and ambition of their creators, leaving a lasting legacy that captivates us today.

1. Garni temple, Armenia

The Garni Temple is a stunning stone structure sitting in the village of Garni, about 30 km from Yerevan. It looks like something straight out of ancient Greece or Rome, with tall columns and perfect symmetry—except it’s in Armenia.

Today, it’s one of Armenia’s top tourist spots and a symbol of its ancient architectural genius.

2. Petra, Jordan

Petra, the “Rose City” of Jordan, is carved straight into pink rock and hidden in the desert; it was once a rich, secret city of traders. Its most famous building, the Treasury, looks like it’s out of a movie (because it is—Indiana Jones filmed there).

The people who built Petra were desert geniuses; they collected rainwater, carved temples out of cliffs, and made a fortune off ancient trade routes. Now, it’s one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and Jordan’s top tourist hotspot.

3. The Great Stupa at Sanchi, India

Sanchi Stupa is a massive stone dome built over 2,000 years ago in central India, and it’s one of the oldest of its kind. Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, it started as a simple brick structure and later got fancy stone gateways carved with wild, detailed scenes.

It’s on a hill in Sanchi, which also happens to be where Ashoka’s wife was from and where they got married. Over time, the area filled up with more of these dome-like structures, making it one of the coolest ancient complexes around.

4. Processional ramp leading up the terraces at the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari, Egypt.

The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning monument built during her reign in ancient Egypt. Located in a desert valley, it has three grand terraces rising into the cliffs, with her tomb tucked inside the mountain.

Over time, the temple faced damage from both natural disasters and efforts to erase Hatshepsut’s memory. Restoration work started in the 1800s and continued into the 20th century. Today, it stands as a beautiful symbol of Hatshepsut’s legacy, welcoming visitors after years of careful restoration.

5. Colosseum in Rome, Italy

The Colosseum is an iconic amphitheater in the heart of Rome, Italy. It fell out of use in the medieval era. Over the centuries, it suffered damage from earthquakes but still stands as a symbol of ancient Rome.

Today, it’s one of Rome’s top attractions and a popular site for many events. Before you head out, be sure to check out our article on 12 Smart Travel Tips to Make Every Trip a Breeze! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just getting started, these helpful tips will ensure that your journey is smooth, stress-free, and full of unforgettable experiences. Don’t miss out on making your next adventure even easier.