10 Iconic Ancient Ruins: Must-Visit Historical Sites for Your Travel Bucket List
For history enthusiasts and travelers, the world's ancient ruins are timeless treasures that continue to captivate. Explore 10 mesmerizing sites that remain as awe-inspiring today as they were millennia ago.
1. Pompeii, Italy
Once a thriving Roman cultural hub, Pompeii was buried under ash and stone from Mount Vesuvius's eruption in 79 A.D. Today, visitors can stroll its preserved streets, witnessing daily life and the poignant casts of victims. Though often crowded, nearby Herculaneum offers quieter elegance with restored villas and stunning frescoes. In Pompeii, the Villa of the Faun features intriguing erotic wall paintings revealing Roman hedonism.
2. Aphrodisias, Turkey
Named for Aphrodite, the goddess of love, these recently excavated ruins fell into disrepair after a seventh-century earthquake. Highlights include the Temple of Aphrodite, the Odeon theater, and a stadium that seated up to 30,000 spectators.
3. Hue, Vietnam
Former seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, Hue bears scars from Vietnam War bombardments. In 2012, it drew 2.4 million visitors, one-third international. See imperial artifacts alongside war damage. Near the Perfume River, it's ideal for cruises, with nearby eateries serving pho and coffee.
4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The world's largest religious monument, this 12th-century Khmer complex spans 402 acres near Siem Reap. Fly in from Phnom Penh or Chiang Mai. Hire guides to explore beyond the main temple, where overgrown sculptures (some looted in the 1990s) create a unique adventure.
5. The Roman Colosseum, Italy
Constructed in 72 A.D., the Colosseum once hosted gladiatorial combats and spectacles. Amid ongoing restoration, explore the perimeter and exhibits on holding areas. Pose for photos with costumed gladiators outside for a few euros.
6. The Istanbul Basilica Cistern, Turkey
This Byzantine underground marvel features ancient columns and iconic Medusa heads repurposed as supports. Opened to the public in 1987, it's under renovation (still accessible) with completion slated for March 2018. Occasional concerts highlight its acoustics and atmosphere.
7. Pentre Ifan, Wales
Linked to Stonehenge's bluestones from the Preseli Hills, this Neolithic dolmen allows close access. Legends claim ancient Druids conducted rites here, invoking Cerridwen, goddess of rebirth. Pair with the scenic Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.
8. Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
A UNESCO site, this Mayan complex draws crowds to the Great Ball Court, Temple of Kukulkan pyramid, and Temple of the Warriors. Nearby, a sacred cenote reveals sacrificial history.
9. Volubilis, Morocco
One of the Roman Empire's farthest outposts near Fes, Volubilis features intact arches amid desert plains. Visit nearby Meknes for Berber architecture.
10. Petra, Jordan
The Nabatean 'Rose City' of Raqmu (circa 312 B.C.) is famed for the carved Treasury facade—architecturally stunning but shallow. Walk the Siq entrance; horseback rides are restricted for preservation.
Michael Alpiner is a columnist at Forbes.com, co-editor of ExtremeLuxuryGetaways.com, and contributor to New York Lifestyles Magazine. He is also a writing professor at Touro College in New York.
