History is full of incredible civilizations that thrived and then mysteriously disappeared. While some ancient cities have been lost to time, others have been rediscovered, allowing modern travelers to look into their ruins and uncover their mysteries. Here are five lost cities and forgotten lands that you can still visit today.
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Machu Picchu – Peru
Machu Picchu, the legendary Incan citadel, was hidden in the Peruvian Andes for centuries before its rediscovery in 1911. Built in the 15th century, this lost city remains one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites in the world.
Visitors can hike the famous Inca Trail or take a train to reach the ruins, where they’ll find stunning stone structures, terraces, and temples. The most famous spot is the Intihuatana Stone, believed to have been used for astronomical purposes. With its dramatic mountain backdrop, Machu Picchu feels like stepping into a forgotten world.
Petra – Jordan
Petra, also known as the “Rose City,” was once a thriving trade center of the Nabateans but was abandoned after earthquakes and shifting trade routes. Hidden in the Jordanian desert, it remained unknown to the Western world until 1812.
Today, visitors can walk through the narrow Siq canyon to reach Petra’s most iconic structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), which was carved into the sandstone cliffs. Other must-see sites include the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, and the ancient amphitheater. The entire city glows in warm hues during sunrise and sunset, making it an unforgettable experience.
Angkor – Cambodia
Angkor was once the capital of the Khmer Empire and home to over a million people at its peak. Eventually, the city was abandoned, swallowed by the jungle, and forgotten for centuries until its rediscovery in the 19th century.
The most famous temple in Angkor is Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Other must-visit sites include Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces, and Ta Prohm, where ancient ruins are intertwined with giant tree roots. Looking into Angkor feels like venturing into an Indiana Jones movie, surrounded by history and mystery.
Pompeii – Italy
Pompeii is one of the most well-preserved lost cities in the world, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The volcanic ash buried the city so suddenly that streets, houses, and even the remains of its people were perfectly preserved for nearly 2,000 years.
Walking through Pompeii’s ruins gives an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into Roman life. Visitors can look into ancient villas, bathhouses, theaters, and even graffiti on the walls. The nearby city of Herculaneum, also buried by Vesuvius, offers another well-preserved look into the past.
Tikal – Guatemala
Deep in the jungles of Guatemala, Tikal was once one of the greatest cities of the ancient Maya civilization. Abandoned over 1,000 years ago, its towering pyramids and temples remained hidden until archaeologists uncovered them in the 19th century.
Visitors to Tikal can climb the towering Temple IV for breathtaking views of the jungle canopy, look into the Great Plaza, and listen to the calls of howler monkeys echoing through the ruins. Unlike more tourist-heavy sites, Tikal feels remote and untouched, making it one of the most magical lost cities to visit.
These lost cities and forgotten lands offer an incredible chance to step back in time and look into the mysteries of ancient civilizations. Whether you’re wandering through Petra’s canyon, climbing the temples of Tikal, or standing among the ruins of Pompeii, these destinations provide an unforgettable journey into the past.
FAQs
Why was Machu Picchu abandoned?
Machu Picchu was likely abandoned due to Spanish conquest and unknown factors.
How was Petra rediscovered?
Petra was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt.
What makes Angkor Wat special?
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument and a symbol of Cambodia.
Why is Pompeii so well-preserved?
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried Pompeii in ash, preserving its ruins.
Can you climb the pyramids in Tikal?
Yes, visitors can climb some pyramids, including Temple IV, for stunning views.
