A Journey Through Time: Exploring Historical and Cultural Sites
Traveling is an exciting endeavor that allows us to connect with and explore history and culture like never before. Many of the most captivating journeys we can embark on showcase ancient and modern societies, the architects and builders of obscure monuments, and the rich geographies that define our global communities. A journey through time can lead us to discover landmarks and establishments located in distant places – some that have been standing for centuries and others just recently established. Regardless of their age, each breathtaking structure and site offers a glimpse into humanity’s past and into various cultural backgrounds.
Understanding the History Behind Ancient Monuments
One of the most exciting types of structures we get to explore on a journey through time are ancient monuments. Most of these monuments have served as a connection to a time that predates us and are the structural embodiment of a culture and community. Nothing quite beats floating along the Nile, the longest river in the world, to witness the majesty of the Great Pyramids at Giza in the Sahara Desert. It’s incredible to think that the structure has been standing since the 25th century BCE. We can further explore temples built to thank deities and deities themselves in ancient Greece—such as the Temple of Zeus which is also believed to have been constructed in the 5th century BCE. Representing what just a few of the archaeological indications of our past civilizations, these monuments offer a tangible connection to the art, culture, and history of our ancient predecessors.
Uncovering Apparent and Subtle Aspects of Art and Architecture
The past can also offer a great reveal into the various styles of architectural and artistic expression that are evident across the various eras from which these monuments were established. As one travels through Europe, the architectural and artistic influence from the continent is usually found around every corner. From the ancient Roman temples and aqueducts, to the Renaisscene cathedrals and Gothic palaces, and later the later Baroque, Rococo, and even Modernist styled establishments, it’s quite awe-inspiring and full of discovery.
During a journey through time, tourists can learn more about the diverse architectural styles that exist in an area, such as:
• Gothic Architecture – One of the most notable features of Gothic architecture is the pointed arch which is used to exaggerate and emphasize the verticality of a structure, thus creating a more solemn and spiritual atmosphere in churches and cathedrals.
• Roman Architecture – This style is characterized by symmetrical planning and large open spaces. It also includes large pillars, domes, and arches, as well as grand aqueducts, where tourists can still witness the grace and grandeur of their designs.
• Baroque Architecture – This style of architecture is known for the use of large and decorative curved shapes, light and dark color contrasts, and a sense of theatricality. The goal is to captivate with dramatic and awe-inspiring spaces. Examples include the Palace of Versailles and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Celebrating Living Cultures Through Local Events and Establishments
Visiting historical sites isn’t the only way to connect with the area’s culture. By visiting regions around the world, the fruits of ancient religions, language, music, and more can be experienced first hand.
Aside from visiting monuments, participating in local events and seeking out local establishments will shake up any journey through time. Local festivals are often the best way to interact with a culture, taste local cuisines, and probably bear witness to a range of musical phenomena.
• Carnivals are also popular throughout Latin America and boast multiple days of joyous celebration with parades, music, costumes, and dancing.
• Karneval in Germany is famous for mask-wearing and a week of festivities prior to Lent.
• The Rio de Janeiro Carnival, celebrated in March or February, is the largest carnival in the world and provides an explosion of music and dance in Brazil.
• Places such as Yabim in the Solomon Islands and Barranco in Peru are known to draw in many tourists with their vivid night life and breathtaking scenery.
• Markets are another way to truly immerse oneself in local culture. Touring the floating markets of Bangkok, the Mercado de San Miguel in Madrid, or the Souk el-Gallous in Cairo can offer a unique experience not easily forgotten.
Exploring Unesco World Heritage Sites
One of the best ways to explore the world’s most culturally significant sites is by visiting Unesco World Heritage sites. A journey through time may take in landmark sites, such as the ancient cities of Petra and Visby, the Aztec temples of Mexico, the Great Wall of China, or the cultural landscapes of Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Canada.
• The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt is recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the World and indeed a breath-taking vestige of its past.
• The White Tower of Thessaloniki in Greece has been standing since the 4th century and is emblematic of the city’s long and fascinating history.
• The Kremlin in Moscow, once a vital political palace, is now a museum complex showcasing the fascinating aspects of Russian art and architecture throughout the ages.
• The Forbidden City in Beijing, China, is arguably the epitome of imperial architecture in the Far East, and is an absolutely stunning testament the country’s greatest emperors and their power.
• The delightful city of Porto in Portugal is filled with churches, monuments, and buildings that are characteristic of the Baroque and Romanesque styles of architecture. The Santa Caterina Church is a 17th century structure that is typical of the city’s style, and is a Unesco World Heritage site.
The world and its cultures are filled with stories and opportunities for discovery, awe, and inspiration. Taking a journey through time allows us to experience the true depths of history, vibrant cultures, symbols, and stunning monuments that can be connected across geographies with the ages. Each part of the journey is packed with culture and history, from the Great Pyramids of Egypt to the ancient streets of Portugal and many places in between. Following this type of journey will leave travelers with an enriched appreciation for the many facets of life as well as a greater knowledge and understanding of the history of humanity.