virtual tours of unesco world heritage sites

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Google offers virtual tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites

Explore mount kilimanjaro, the taj mahal, yosemite national park and many other locations..

Travel is still not viable for many of us amid restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Yet there are some ways you can explore some of the world’s cultural landmarks and most notable sites of natural beauty from the safety of your home. One option is Google Arts & Culture , which just added many UNESCO World Heritage sites to its library of virtual tours.

Through the Explore UNESCO World Heritage hub , you can explore sites such as the canals of France, the Colosseum, Mount Kilimanjaro and volcanoes in South Korea. You can also view the instantly recognizable landscape of Rio de Janeiro, check out the Taj Mahal and virtually swim with whales in Mexico.

The tours are a useful way to stay connected to our collective history when visiting these sites in person is largely off the table. They could prove valuable resources for educators as well, helping them to teach students about natural and cultural heritage. The tours include information on the likes of Yosemite National Park, ancient pilgrimage routes in northern Spain and the Great Pyramids of Giza.

The World Heritage sites join a litany of important cultural touchstones in Google Arts & Culture, including exhibits of many major museums , the history of electronic music and augmented-reality galleries .

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Not Ready to Travel Yet? You Can Now Tour UNESCO World Heritage Sites From Your Laptop

Dozens of the world's most famous attractions have been added to google arts & culture..

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Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

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The ongoing rollout of Covid-19 vaccines means there is finally light at the end of the long, dark pandemic tunnel. But travel still won’t be easy anytime soon—especially to other countries. Thankfully, Google has something to tide us over.

The tech giant’s Arts & Culture app has just added virtual tours of dozens of UNESCO World Heritage sites around the globe (h/t Engadget) . Thanks to the new feature, you’ll be able to visit some of the world’s most awe-inspiring locations without leaving the comfort and safety of your home.

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Were you thinking about spending a summer in Italy before the beginning of the pandemic? There are loads of virtual tours of renowned landmarks throughout the country , including of the Colosseum, Pantheon and Venice. Obsessed with palaces? You can explore royal residences in France , South Korea and Vietnam . More of a nature lover? You can roam Messel Pit fossil site in Germany, or Simien Mountains National Park in Ethiopia? Basically, if there’s a culturally significant site on the face of the globe, chances are you can now tour it virtually thanks to Google’s UNESCO hub page , accessible via the Arts & Culture app or desktop site.

Exploring the Palace of Versailles via Google Arts & Culture  Google

The virtual tour has experienced something of a renaissance during the coronavirus pandemic. Last spring, as our new reality was starting to set in, cultural institutions around the globe were quick to open up their doors online , including New York’s Museum of Modern Art,   the Musée d’Orsay in Paris and the National Museum in New Delhi. And in the year and change since, they’ve proven to be invaluable for the culturally curious.

Of course, virtual tours will never be able replicate the experience of visiting one of the world’s great sites or museums in person, but they are a safer substitute at a time when our travel options are still limited. And, hey, the online tours just might prove to be a great planning tool for that first post-pandemic trip. Let the vacation research begin.

Bryan Hood is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. Before joining the magazine, he worked for the New York Post, Artinfo and New York magazine, where he covered everything from celebrity gossip to…

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UNESCO World Heritage Sites Virtual Tour

From the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to Mont St. Michel in France, there are endless UNESCO World Heritage sites around the globe. Each UNESCO World Heritage Site has a special flair that is unique to its location, geography, or history. We’ve put together a virtual tour of some of our favorite UNESCO sites for you to escape to right now!

Machu Picchu, Peru

High in the Andes, overlooking the Sacred Valley of the Incas lies the majestic Machu Picchu. Archeologists believe these stone pyramids date to the 15th century and represent the estate of Incan Emperor Pachacuti. Abandoned in the 1500s, these pyramids were overgrown and forgotten to the world until American archeologist Hiram Bingham stumbled on them in 1911. Nowadays, people travel far and wide to take in the breathtaking beauty of this natural and architectural phenomenon.

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Penguins, sea turtles, and iguanas are just a few of the 500+ species who call these remote islands home. When Charles Darwin visited in 1835, he was so engrossed in the biodiversity there that he was able to establish his theory of evolution. The Galapagos Islands features the second largest marine reserve in the world—making this one of the most diverse and highly coveted sites to visit!

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Under tropical palms, visitors enjoy the sparkling water of the Pacific Ocean, along with what lies underneath it—the world’s largest coral reef. Brimming with exotic sea creatures and plant life this vibrant ecosystem is a literal paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. And as we are learning, this natural wonder is starting to perish, making it more urgent than ever to cross it off your bucket list.

Petra, Jordan

This 2,000-year-old city will keep archaeological buffs enraptured. Also named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is carved out of sandstone in mammoth desert rock and features the iconic Al-Khazneh temple (The Treasury), which is considered one of the most elaborate temples in the ancient world.

Torres del Paine, Chile

Widely considered one of the most scenic views in the world, this national park is known for its pointed snow-capped mountains, sparkling glacier lakes, rushing waterfalls, and picturesque grasslands. Adventurers can take advantage of the unique hiking terrain while birdwatchers seek out the wide variety of feathered creatures flying about. Visitors also often get the chance to spot rare wildlife like pumas, llamas, and ostrich-like nandus.

Old City of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Known as “The Pearl of the Adriatic”, it’s no secret that Dubrovnik, Croatia has a stunning coastline and amazing ocean views. But, you may not realize this city is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the world. Inside its stone walls, you’ll find churches representing Baroque and Renaissance time periods, as well as plenty of sidewalk cafes and strolling performers. Game of Thrones fans will especially love it here, as it was used as a filming location for King’s Landing .

Venice, Italy

Gondolas, canals, narrow alleys, St. Mark’s Cathedral, and the Doge’s Palace; these are the elements that give Venice its unique appeal, as well as its place on the UNESCO list. This city offers a charming journey no matter how many times you visit! Wander the quaint streets, admire the blend of East and West architecture, and take in the world-class museums. Most travelers round out their experience here by living “la dolce vita” and savoring a glass of wine by a canal.

Mont St. Michel, France

Built on a tiny island on the rugged shores of Normandy sits an enormous medieval Abbey. Built in the 8th century and dedicated to Archangel Michael, early pilgrims navigated the tide to approach the magnificent structure and pay their respects. There is a small village at the base of the Abbey with shops and restaurants. The outstanding beauty of not only the castle but its scenic surroundings make seeing this site up close a “must do” when in France.

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Visit These UNESCO World Heritage Sites From Home

Take a virtual tour of some of history's most hallowed haunts.

By Google Arts & Culture

Reflection of mountains in the river, Yosemite National Park, California, USA (2005-10-03) by Medioimages/Photodisc Getty Images

Yosemite National Park

Home to some of the most spectacular landscapes and breathtaking views on Earth, Yosemite National Park deserves to be right at the top of your hit list. The park covers an area of 1,169 sq miles and takes in granite cliffs, giant sequoia groves, lakes and waterfalls.

Visit Yosemite and you can hike its many trails, climb to its lofty viewpoints and battle the other 20,000 daily visitors for the best photo opportunity. 

View of the famous Vatican Basilica with the colonade and the square View of the famous Vatican Basilica with the colonade and the square Touring Club Italiano

Vatican City

When Vatican City was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984, it became the only entire state to be included in the list. Though the city covers an area of just 49 hectares, it contains many of Christianity’s most important sites and relics. 

Click and drag to explore, and tick the Vatican City off your list.

View from Rua da Vitória (Victory Street) towards Rua Ferraz (2015) by Eduarda Claro Faculty of Arts and Humanities of University of Porto

Porto Old Town

Made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Porto is the second largest city in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. The historic center of Porto is made up of winding cobbled streets, colorful apartment blocks and precarious balconies. 

Once you’ve taken in the panoramic views from the Luiz I Bridge and enjoyed a stroll along the city’s impossibly picturesque waterfront, take a well-earned  break in one of the many port houses on the south side of the river. 

Athens 2004 (2015-08-07) by Mlenny The Olympic Museum

The Acropolis

With a history dating over 2,500 years and an international reputation as one of the world’s great archaeological sites, it’s easy to see why the Acropolis makes the UNESCO list. 

The elevated site overlooks central Athens and contains many of the most important surviving structures of the Ancient Greek world. Built by Pericles during the Golden Age of Athens, it’s a must see for anyone with a love of temples, sculpture and atmospheric ruins. 

Great Migration, Serengeti (1981) by Serengeti National Park UNESCO World Heritage

The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, the Serengeti National Park is one of the most diverse and beautiful places on Earth. The park covers an area of 5,700 square miles and contains thousands of animal species. 

Packed full of wildlife, the park is best known for its annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra, the largest unaltered animal migration remaining in the world. 

Valley of the Yosemite (1864) by Albert Bierstadt Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

If you'd like to learn about UNESCO sites around the world, you can read more about these incredible locations here . 

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Getty images, the touring club italiano historical archive, touring club italiano, the olympic marathon through iconic photographs, the olympic museum, garajonay national park, la gomera, canary islands, spain, unesco world heritage, the saints of afurada. art, devotion and community - part i, faculty of arts and humanities of university of porto, 21st century designer fashion, museum of fine arts, boston, boycott apartheid, athens 1896: the invention of the marathon, trang an landscape complex, vietnam, porto de virtudes, radical geometries.

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Google offers virtual tours of unesco world heritage sites around the world.

Miss travelling? You can now explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites from the comfort of your own home, thanks to Google Arts & Culture

The ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions have put have our international trips on hold, but that doesn’t mean we can’t explore cultural landmarks and admire some of the most spectacular scenery around the world. Many museums and art galleries are now offering free virtual tours , helping you to get that much-needed fix of travel and art. One option is Google Arts & Culture , an online platform that features content from over 2,000 leading cultural institutions to keep you inspired and entertained at home.  

The tech giant has recently delivered a major update to the online resource, where a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has been added to its library of virtual tours. On the platform, users will now be able to enjoy virtual globetrotting tours of the world’s most renowned landmarks and awe-inspiring destinations, such as the Taj Mahal, the canals of France, the Colosseum, Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as Serengeti National Park, to name just a few.  

“This is a unique opportunity to enjoy a virtual globetrotting tour of cultural landmarks and outstanding places of natural beauty, as well as to access accurate and reliable information on sites of outstanding universal value,” said Ernesto Ottone, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture, in a blog post .

“Of course, this virtual exploration will never replace the unique experience of seeing these places for real and visiting World Heritage sites. We shall travel again. In the meantime, we hope it will nevertheless enable users to immerse themselves in the beauty of our world and inspire action to protect it,” he says. 

With travel off the cards for the foreseeable future, these online tours would make the perfect antidote for any travel blues and a great guide to inspire your post-pandemic trips .  

Explore UNESCO Heritage Sites from the world on Google Arts & Culture  here

See also: 7 Global Cultural Experiences You Can Enjoy From Home

Top 10 virtual tours: see museums and the world without leaving home

Stuck at home? You can still enjoy amazing sights and experiences

Many of the world’s most iconic locations now offer virtual tours, meaning you can visit museums, world heritage sites and other attractions from the comfort of your couch. You don’t need a VR headset , either, although some attractions do support virtual reality for a more immersive experience.

So if you’re looking for things to do at home, and in need of a change of scenery, simply grab your laptop, tablet or phone, and join us on a world tour filled with history, nature and – of course – technology.

1. Machu Picchu, Andes Mountains, Peru

A simply stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, Machu Picchu is a visual wonder that just has to be seen. You no longer need to fly all the way to Peru to see it in all its glory, however, as the virtual tour is comprehensive, immersive, and filled with fascinating insights.

With 360-degree views of the ruins of Inca settlements and lush green landscapes, you can visit every popular vantage point and learn more about the history of the famous site thanks to a helpful voice narrator. OK, you can’t feel the warm breeze around you, but if you turn on the heat and have a handy desk fan set to low, it’s almost as good as the real thing. Almost.

Behold the marvel : Machu Picchu

2. The Louvre Museum, Paris

An attraction visited by millions of tourists in person every year, the Louvre Museum has also created a selection of virtual tours based on its permanent collections. Explore Egyptian antiquities, the Remains of the Louvre’s Moat, and the decorative arts of the Galerie d’Apollon. 

The tour is easy to navigate, with an expandable minimap that lets you highlight exhibits to view with just a couple of clicks. You can also find out more about each room in The Louvre, with detailed descriptions that will probably make the room you’re actually sitting in feel frightfully dull in comparison. 

Take a trip: Louvre Museum

3. The National Museum of Computing, Milton Keynes, UK

The National Museum of Computing contains the world’s largest collection of working historic computers. That means one of them probably runs Microsoft Vista and is still working...

The museum features a fantastic, intuitive, virtual 3D tour. You can zoom in on each exhibit’s details, and find out more about every aspect of computing history, such as the world’s oldest working digital computer. Impressive stuff.

Discover a digital treasure trove: The National Museum of Computing

4. Georgia Aquarium, Georgia, USA

Nothing beats the beauty of nature, so it’s good to know you can still get your daily dose of “aww” from the safety of your sofa. The Georgia Aquarium has over 50 species ranging from sea lions to underwater puffins, with many available to view via webcam. There’s also a daily and weekly livestream that’s aimed at piquing children’s interest in animals, and a great at-home educational tool if you want to entertain the little ones. 

Ever wondered what a Beluga Whale gets up to in its spare time? Just click on the link below and find out. Water-way to have a good time. 

Sea more: Georgia Aquarium

5. A 3-Minute Tour, Tokyo

What if we told you that you could ride in a Tuk Tuk, walk across the famous Shibuya crossing, win a Pikachu from a claw machine, and make friends with a robot… all in under three minutes. That might be physically impossible, but with VR it’s a breeze.

If you’ve ever wanted to take a whistle-stop tour of Japan, the Japan National Tourism Organization has created a 360-degree virtual reality video that lets you do all of the above, and lots more. 

Simply put on a VR headset to experience a surreal thrill ride, where you’ll go from feeding a deer to facing off against a sumo wrestler in a matter of seconds. The video is also viewable in 2D, and well worth a look. 

Check it out below.

6. The British Museum, London

Home to a remarkable collection that spans over two million years of human history and culture, The British Museum has nearly 50 online exhibits to view. From Bonaparte and the Battle of Waterloo to exploring the history of LGBTQ, there’s plenty of informative content to delve into.

For a more interactive experience, check out the Museum of the World tour . You can browse through a large selection of exhibits that are dated by century, continent and category – such as trade and conflict or art and design. Each exhibit offers a detailed description as well as accompanying audio, which helps provide a fascinating backstory to each piece. 

Browse the exhibits: The British Museum

7. The Vatican, Rome

Filled with spectacular architecture and historic monuments, The Vatican is within your virtual reach, with a host of museums providing online tours. Step into the Sistine Chapel and Raphael’s Rooms, which are adorned with simply sensational artwork. 

The tour is compatible with WebVR, so you can pop on a VR headset to get an even closer look at some of mankind’s most memorable creations. It’s truly breathtaking, even when viewed through a screen.  

When in Rome, visit: The Vatican

 8. Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Located in the center of Paris, this historic museum was installed in the former Orsay railway station. It was originally built for the Universal Exhibition of 1900, and displays collections of art from the period 1848 to 1914.

Take a leisurely virtual stroll through the opulent hallways and witness works from dozens of famous French artists, including Monet, Gauguin and Van Gogh. With no other visitors to contend with, you can soak up all the culture on display to your heart’s content – and there’s a lot to soak up. 

Take the tour: Musée d’Orsay

9. Athens Acropolis, Athens

A must-visit destination for history buffs, the Athens Acropolis includes the world-famous Parthenon, and is a cultural hotspot for tourists. Choose between popular sites such as the Theatre of Dionysus and enjoy in-depth videos that provide a fascinating and educational insight into ancient Greece. 

There are plenty of photographs to view and engrossing facts to learn, so don’t be surprised if you become an armchair expert in no time. Now, where’d you put that amphora of wine? 

Get to the Greek: Athens Acropolis

10. The Royal Academy of Arts, London

If you’re amazed by architecture, the Royal Academy of Arts has a virtual tour that will make you go “ooo” and “ahh” for hours. The Sensing Spaces exhibition uses high-quality 360-degree photography to give visitors a taste of its structures and remarkable exhibitions – it really does feel as if you’re actually there. 

Each exhibition is complemented by further information for users to read through, but you’re encouraged to come to your own conclusions, and think about what each space means to you.

Visit the exhibition: Sensing Spaces

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Adam was formerly TRG's Hardware Editor. A law graduate with an exceptional track record in content creation and online engagement, Adam has penned scintillating copy for various technology sites and also established his very own award-nominated video games website. He’s previously worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor and once played Halo 5: Guardians for over 51 hours for charity. He is now an editor at The Shortcut.

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Los Angeles’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Hollyhock house is one of eight structures to join the unesco world heritage list in 2019 as part of “the 20th-century architecture of frank lloyd wright.” the collection spans 50 years of wright’s career and also includes unity temple, the frederick c. robie house, taliesin, fallingwater, the herbert and katherine jacobs house, taliesin west, and the solomon guggenheim museum..

Take a Virtual Tour

The hollyhock house virtual accessibility experience allows audiences to explore los angeles’s first-and-only unesco world heritage site from home. with striking 360° photography, easy navigation, room descriptions, and collection highlights, this virtual tour provides an immersive and inclusive experience for visitors of all abilities..

Archiving 100 Years of History

2021 marked hollyhock house’s centennial. learn more about the site’s rich history online. the hollyhock house archive contains original drawings and blueprints detailing plans for the ambitious arts complex that was partially realized by aline barnsdall and her architect frank lloyd wright. with 81 digitized documents, this repository offers a closer look at the history of hollyhock house and barnsdall park as well as architectural inspiration for all..

Advance tickets are recommended for self-guided tours

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Now, with a radical client like miss barnsdall, a site like olive hill, a climate like california, an architect head on for freedom, something had to happen… so this romanza of california came out on olive hill..

Frank Lloyd Wright: An Autobiography, 1943

Built between 1919 and 1921, Hollyhock House was Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Los Angeles commission and an ode to California—its freedom and natural beauty. Designed for Aline Barnsdall, this house was intended to be the centerpiece of a 36-acre arts complex, which was only partially realized.

Hollyhock house is a harbinger of california modernism, inscribed to the unesco world heritage list along with seven other wright sites, and today is owned by the city of los angeles and operated by the department of cultural affairs., connect with us.

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• Virtual Tours To Famous World Heritage Sites

Soothe Your Wanderlust During This Pandemic

Out of content to binge on Netflix? Worry not. You can switch things up with awe-inspiring digital tours of UNESCO world heritage sites while you’re holed up at home. Let’s face it, trekking via the laptop is all the holiday you’re going to get in times of self-isolation. Google and UNESCO have teamed up to offer stunning, panoramic views of 30 global heritage sites, which can be viewed with  Google Earth  and  Google Street View .

There’s never been a more appropriate time to get a sneak peek of history and culture – not only does it offer solace in troubled times, but there’s also the added advantage of traveling minus the crowds and the jet lag. If you’re not sure where to start exploring, here’s our list of the top 7 most popular digital destinations. Get comfy, and no need to pack a bag!

1. The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

2. Taj Mahal, India

3. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

4. Palace of Versailles, France

5. Robben Island, South Africa

6. Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Italy

7. Borobudur Temple, Indonesia

Want more? Check out the UNESCO website where you can explore more heritage sites too! Visit places like the Kilimanjaro National Park , Blue and John Crow Mountains , and also the Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes .

Why Little Steps Loves It:​

It’s meaningful entertainment and keeps the kids occupied for hours.

Who It's Perfect For:

This one is a real family affair. Gather around the laptop, kiddos!

What Else:​

You can move around the cursor, zoom in or follow the ‘people symbol’ and get a sensation of literally wandering around these cool sites without ever actually leaving the sofa.

Where To Find It:​

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Explore art and archaeological sites in Lebanon through virtual tours

As we are all locked down and spend time at home to help contain the spread of COVID-19, UNESCO Beirut and Lebanon's Ministry of Culture have partnered together in a unique initiative to allow you to virtually tour some major museums and archaeological sites in Lebanon, in addition to the country's World Heritage Sites.

Enjoy from the comfort of your home a virtual visit of the following sites and museums:

1- The Lebanese National Museum

https://goo.gl/maps/c3tCxDaUqjmgjBHK

Application belonging to the collection of artifacts displayed at the National Museum

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ourjouwan.BeirutMuseum&hl=en

https://apps.apple.com/lb/app/beirut-museum/id897108903

2- The National Museum of Modern Art 

http://artmodernemv.gov.lb

3- Archaeological Sites in Lebanon

Baalbek - UNESCO World Heritage Site

https://goo.gl/maps/F1qUhSDHYbtNTZVA8

Beaufort Crusader Castle

https://goo.gl/maps/zrE5iXdf6DHrsAdf6

Byblos - UNESCO World Heritage Site

https://goo.gl/maps/23x3rir7NXgoR5Q96

Mseilha Castle

https://goo.gl/maps/GgNporvcG1NLsMoK6

Saida Sea Castle

https://goo.gl/maps/ZyXPrqdVi9DyZzPS8

Tyre City Site - UNESCO World Heritage Site

https://goo.gl/maps/jFM3B9nVW3xwQ6EPA

Tyre Al Bass - UNESCO World Heritage Site

https://goo.gl/maps/vTFzSxhtCrFgQBzS9

Related items

• UNESCO Office in Beirut and Regional Bureau for Education

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5 Fascinating Historical Tours of Europe You Need To Plan For

V isiting ancient sites in Europe is a unique and rewarding experience that can transport you to a different time and place. Each site has its own story and history lovers can immerse themselves in the continent’s diverse and cultural heritage. From the Ancient Theater of Philippopolis in Bulgaria to the Göbekli Tepe in Turkey, Europe is home to many ancient sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the past.

Exploring the ruins of ancient cities, admiring intricate carvings and paintings, and marveling at the advanced construction techniques used by ancient civilizations are just some things you can expect to experience. Many of these sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and require advanced tickets, so planning ahead is essential.

Overall, visiting ancient sites in Europe is a fascinating journey through time that can leave you with a deep appreciation for the achievements of our ancestors and a renewed sense of wonder about the world around us.

1. Ancient Theater Of Philippopolis, Bulgaria

The Ancient Theater of Philippopolis , situated in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, is a fascinating historical site. This open-air theater dates back to the 2nd century AD and could seat 7,000 spectators.

The theater has been beautifully preserved and the intricate details of its architecture are a testament to the skills of its ancient builders. Visitors can still see the stage, orchestra, and seating areas, which give a glimpse into the grandeur of the performances that took place here.

The theater has panoramic views of the city of Plovdiv. It is a lovely spot to enjoy a performance or take in the scenery. The Ancient Theater of Philippopolis is a gratifying place for anyone who appreciates ancient architecture and culture.

2. Brú Na Bóinne, Ireland

Brú na Bóinne is a Neolithic site on the River Boyne in eastern Ireland . The area is home to three prehistoric passage tombs constructed in 3,200 BC. The tombs — known as Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth — are among the most important Neolithic sites in the world. The collection of Megalithic art is the largest in western Europe.

The tombs were constructed using large stones and the intricate carvings and designs on them show the builders’ skills.

When visiting Brú na Bóinne, you can take a guided tour to explore the tombs and learn about their history and significance. Pre-booking tickets is a must for this interactive site.

3. Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Malta

The Hal Saflieni Hypogeum in Paola, Malta, is an underground burial chamber from 2,500 BC. This ancient structure is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most intact prehistoric sites in the world. The chamber was discovered in 1902 when builders excavated it for a new housing development.

The hypogeum showcases advanced construction techniques used by the ancient Maltese. The walls and ceilings of the chamber are adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting human figures, animals, and geometric patterns. The chamber’s acoustics are also remarkable, with sounds echoing and reverberating throughout the space. The hypogeum requires advanced tickets for a set time of day. Only eight small group tours are conducted each day.

4. Butrint National Archaeological Park, Albania

Butrint National Archaeological Park is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern Albania. This ancient city has a rich history that dates back to the Greeks and Romans, and it is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Balkans. The park has impressive ruins, including a Roman amphitheater, a Byzantine basilica, and a Venetian castle .

You can explore the site on foot and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape while admiring the ancient architecture and intricate mosaics. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers. Overall, Butrint National Archaeological Park will satisfy history lovers, culture buffs, and natural beauty enthusiasts.

5. Göbekli Tepe, Turkey

Göbekli Tepe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Turkey’s Mount Germuş. Many consider Göbekli Tepe one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 21st century. The site dates to the 10th millennium BC. It is believed to be one of the earliest examples of a human-made religious structure.

Göbekli Tepe consists of a series of stone structures created by ancient hunter-gatherers. They depict various animals and symbols. The site is surrounded by a large number of stone pillars that are adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs.

The significance of Göbekli Tepe lies in the fact that it challenges our understanding of early human civilization and suggests that humans were capable of more complex social and cultural structures than previously thought.

Visiting ancient European sites is a unique opportunity to explore the continent’s history and cultural heritage. These sites provide a window into our ancestors’ lives, beliefs, and achievements, allowing us to better understand our shared human experience.

The rewards of visiting these sites are immeasurable, from the intricate architecture of the Ancient Theater of Philippopolis to the stunning Megalithic art at Brú na Bóinne. They offer a chance to connect with the past, appreciate the present, and inspire the future. You can visit some of these sites from home with a virtual tour .

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits