Do you want a different vacation, a journey that goes beyond shopping and relaxation, and takes you to the depths of history, during which you can live moments of true magic? UNESCO recently unveiled the addition of a new collection of unique cultural sites to its World Heritage List, priceless places that store stories of glory, legends, and civilizations that continue to fascinate the world.
From the banks of the Seine River in France to the mysterious forests of Jamaica, from the industrial landmarks of Germany to the legendary temples of Cambodia, here are five magical sites that are worth your next trip, because they are unforgettable human experiences, beyond being ordinary tourist destinations.
The palaces of King Ludwig II in Bavaria. Germany:
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
If you think German architecture is dry and rigid, the palaces of King Ludwig II will completely change your outlook. The most famous of these is the Neuschwanstein Palace, which resembles fairy tale palaces. Built in the 19th century, the palace reflects the king's lavish taste and love of mythology and opera. The three palaces built by the king: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Hernkemsee, are now World Heritage sites. These palaces are a mixture of history, art, and royal drama, all set amidst stunning Bavarian landscapes, adding to the charm of the experience, and these magnificent buildings attract millions of people, so if you are an architecture lover interested in history and romantics, you are sure to spend a wonderful holiday in Bavaria in these three fictional palaces.
The sites of the Minoan civilization in Crete. Greece:
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Who would have imagined that the myth of the labyrinth and the monster "Minotaur" had real roots? At the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, traces of the oldest advanced civilization in Europe (Minoan or Minoan) can be seen. Five other archaeological sites, such as Zagros and Malia, received global recognition from UNESCO this year. The maze is worth a visit because it tells the story of a thriving civilization thousands of years ago, master's in architecture and art, and had commercial contact with the cultures of the Mediterranean basin. Minoan art and culture are characterized by a clear love of nature, movement, and bright colors, which is clearly evident in the murals, pottery, and sculptures they are left behind. If you are a fan of murals that tell scenes from everyday life, religious rituals, and landscapes, and you are a fan of a sophisticated artistic sense, you will have an enjoyable journey with the heritage of the Minoan civilization.
The huge stones of Karnak. France:
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Carnac stones in Brittany are among the largest stone formations in Europe. More than 3,000 carved rocks, meticulously placed in place some 5,000 years ago.
So why is it worth a visit? It offers a glimpse into a mysterious and well-organized civilization, showing how ancient humans understood nature, stars and terrestrial energy, amidst stunning French rural landscapes.
Execution fields. Cambodia:
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Not every human heritage is beautiful, some document painful chapters of human history. UNESCO has listed sites linked to the Khmer Rouge genocide, such as Tul Sleng Prison and the Choyeong-eek execution site, as a World Heritage Site as a testament to crimes committed against the Cambodian people during the seventies.
Why is this visit worth it? Because remembering tragedies is a human and moral imperative. Visiting these sites reminds us of the importance of peace and the need to preserve human dignity.
«Port Royal» Jamaica. A city swallowed by the sea:
Palaces, legends, and tragedies. These sites are worth your visit on the earliest holiday
Port Royal was one of the most corrupt and decaying cities in the world during the 17th century, until an earthquake in 1692 submerged large parts of it under water. Today, what remains of the city, above and below sea level, is part of the UNESCO list.
Why is it worth visiting? It gives you a vivid glimpse into early colonial life, piracy, and maritime trade in the Caribbean, all set in a breathtaking tropical setting.
Zahrat Al Khaleej - Jordan