I don’t know about you but, when I was at school, history wasn’t up there as one of my favourite subjects. However, since I’ve been travelling, I’ve discovered that not only is history a super interesting way to learn about an area it’s also pretty darn exciting too with numerous battles, heroes and villains making a location really come to life.
It really doesn’t matter where you’ve got plans to head to, as long as you can delve a little deeper into the past you’ll be ramping your thrill levels up to 11 before you know it and from the Middle East to North Africa, you never know what exciting gift you’ll experience next.
“History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.” John Dalberg-Acton
Below are just a few of the historical ‘must sees’ from around the world and if you’ve never considered history as an interesting option before then just a glimpse of these incredible locations will no doubt go some way to changing your mind.
Petra, Jordan
There can be few more thrilling and enveloping historical sites other than the preserved citadel of Petra that lies within the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan. This sandstone fortress was once at the centre of the trading world and as such you can just imagine the incredible depth of stories and visitors who have strolled through the carved columns and hidden doorways on route from Asia to Europe and beyond.
Kyoto, Japan
The one time imperial city of Japan was home to more than 70 emperors and three military commanders which is why a visit to Kyoto will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end in fear of being sliced by the shimmering edge of a samurai’s sword. Also known as the ten thousand shrine city, Kyoto brings the creative, religious and historical relevance of Japan into context and should not be missed by any stretch of the imagination.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Who wouldn’t fail to be swept up by the mystery and the magic of Marrakesh and you don’t have to delve too far into the past to discover a thrilling and mesmerising history lesson that will have you eagerly longing for more. Bedouin culture, the hippy invasion and traditional ceremonies will all be yours to explore and once you find the true stories and legends behind the market trader myths then you’re bound to feel more depth as you explore outside of the city walls.
Giza, Egypt
Finally, there can be few historical sites on the planet that are so instantly recognisable as the pyramids of ancient Egypt, and no history lesson is complete without a trip to Giza which lies just outside the capital city of Cairo. It really won’t take long to flame the fascinating fires of the past and no sooner than you’ve caught your first glimpse of the Nile and captured your first photo under the Sphinx then you’re passion for history will take root as vehemently as a Pharaoh’s lust for power.