10 of the most stunning ancient monuments you may not know about
Ancient monuments are physical structures or buildings built in ancient times, usually for religious, cultural or political purposes. These structures are considered to be of great historical and cultural significance as they provide insight into the civilizations that created them and the architectural achievements of their time. From towering pyramids to intricate temples, these monuments have stood the test of time and continue to inspire wonder and admiration.
The importance of ancient monuments lies in their ability to connect us to the past and help us understand the cultures and civilizations that preceded ours. They serve as a testament to human imagination and creativity, demonstrating the incredible technical and artistic feats that were possible even in the distant past. This list highlights 10 of the most beautiful ancient monuments from around the world, revealing their unique features and the stories behind their creation. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate the beauty of ancient architecture, this list is sure to captivate and inspire you.
Related: 10 times people have erected public monuments to their enemies
10 Borobudur Temple
The Borobudur Temple is an ancient monument in Central Java, Indonesia. It was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty. The temple was designed as a huge Buddhist structure with nine stacked platforms – six square and three circular – topped by a central dome. It is considered one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world.
Borobudur Temple has more than 2,600 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The relief panels depict scenes from Buddha’s life and stories from Jataka tales. These reliefs serve to illustrate moral lessons for followers of Buddhism. The temple’s carvings and attention to detail make it an excellent example of Mahayana Buddhist architecture.[1]
9 Ajanta Caves
The Ajanta Caves are among the most exquisite examples of ancient Indian rock architecture. They were built between the 2nd century BC and the 6th century AD. The caves are located in Maharashtra, India. They served as a place for Buddhist monks to meditate and were abandoned after the decline of Buddhism in India.
The Ajanta Caves were rediscovered in the 19th century and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. They are known for their elaborate sculptures and murals depicting the life and teachings of Buddha. The caves are excavated from a horseshoe-shaped cliff along the Waghora River. The interior of the caves was decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from the Jataka stories and Buddha’s life. They also have impressive sculptures of Buddha, bodhisattvas and other figures from Buddhist mythology.[2]
8 Gobekli Tepe
Göbekli Tepe is a fascinating archaeological site in southeastern Turkey. Dating back to the 10th millennium BC, it is one of the oldest known monumental structures ever discovered. The site was first discovered in 1963, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that excavations began in earnest. Göbekli Tepe was built by a prehistoric civilization that predates the invention of agriculture, challenging our understanding of human history and the development of civilization.
Göbekli Tepe consists of a series of large, round stone structures. These structures are built with massive, T-shaped pillars. The pillars themselves are decorated with intricate carvings of animals and symbols that have yet to be fully deciphered. Some pillars reach a height of 5.5 meters. This intricate decoration and the monumental nature of the structures make Göbekli Tepe important in challenging our assumptions about early man’s abilities and suggesting a more complex and multifaceted development of civilization.[3]
7 Sigiriya
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress in the northern Matale district of Sri Lanka. It was built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century AD as a royal residence. After being used as a royal residence, it was later used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. The history of Sigiriya is marked by intrigue and drama, as King Kashyapa I seized his father’s throne and killed his own brother to secure his position. Despite its violent origins, Sigiriya is now known as one of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world.
Sigiriya is a towering rock formation that rises about 656.17 feet (nearly 200 meters) above the surrounding plains. The fortress complex is accessed through a series of remarkable gates and stairways. It features beautiful gardens, swimming pools and fountains. One of Sigiriya’s most notable features is its murals, located in a sheltered area halfway up the cliff face. These paintings depict various themes, including beautiful virgins, animals and religious iconography. Sigiriya’s stunning beauty and historical significance provide a compelling glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of ancient Sri Lanka.[4]
6 Persepolis
Persepolis is an ancient monument in Iran. It served as the capital of the Persian Empire during the Achaemenid dynasty from 550-330 BC. The construction of Persepolis was initiated by Darius I in 518 BC and took about 150 years to complete. Persepolis played a central role in political, cultural and ceremonial activities and witnessed important historical events, such as the receipt of tribute from subject nations.
The monument showcases impressive architecture and design, incorporating various artistic styles from across the Persian Empire. Notable buildings on the site include the Apadana Palace, the Throne Hall, and the Tachara Palace. Persepolis is known for its elaborate reliefs and sculptures depicting important historical events and figures. Its historical and cultural significance lies in its depiction of the power and influence of the Persian Empire even in the present day.[5]
5 Tiwanaku
Tiwanaku, also spelled Tiahuanaco or Tiwanacu, is an important pre-Columbian civilization near the southern shore of Lake Titicaca in Bolivia. The city is said to have been built around 400 BC. It reached its peak between 500 and 900 AD and served as an important cultural and religious center for the Andean people. The Tiwanaku culture was known for its remarkable architecture, engineering and art. Tiwanaku is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in South America.
The town of Tiwanaku is home to several monumental stone structures built by its inhabitants. Well-known examples are the Akapana pyramid, the Kalasasaya temple and the Pumapunku complex. These structures were built using huge blocks of stone quarried and transported from distant locations. Tiwanaku’s architecture is characterized by intricate carvings, complex masonry techniques, and precise astronomical alignments.[6]
4 Nan Madol
Nan Madol is a complex of stone structures on the island of Pohnpei in Micronesia. The monument is considered a masterpiece of ancient engineering. The techniques used to build Nan Madol and transport the massive stones from quarries miles away remain a mystery. The structures are made of more than 750,000 tons of black basalt. The islands themselves are built using a system of coral blocks and logs.
Nan Madol served as the political and religious center of the Saudeleur dynasty, a ruling class that controlled the region. It is an important example of ancient architecture and engineering. The monument’s unique design continues to captivate modern visitors. Due to its cultural and historical importance, Nan Madol has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.[7]
3 Chavin de Huantar
Chavin de Huantar is an ancient monument in the highlands of Peru. It was built by the Chavin Civilization, which flourished in the region from 900 BC to 200 BC. Chavin de Huantar served as an important religious and political center of the Chavin culture and is believed to have been the civilization’s capital. The site was rediscovered in the early 20th century and has since been recognized as one of the most important archaeological sites in South America.
Chavin de Huantar is known for its impressive architectural features, including underground chambers, carved stone sculptures, and intricate corridors. The site is also known for its art, including intricate stone carvings and ceramic artifacts. It provides valuable insights into the religious and cultural practices of the Chavin civilization, which greatly influenced the later development of Andean cultures. The site has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underlining its significance as a cultural and historical monument.[8]
2 Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thailand that showcases the remains of the Sukhothai Kingdom, one of the earliest kingdoms in the region. Founded in the 13th century, the Sukhothai Kingdom was an important political and cultural center in Southeast Asia. The park consists of the ruins of the ancient capital Sukhothai and several surrounding temples and monuments.
The Sukhothai Historical Park is known for its stunning architecture and intricate stone carvings that reflect the unique artistic style of the Sukhothai period. The park is home to more than 193 ruins of temples, royal palaces and other structures that have been beautifully restored and preserved. These structures are known for their distinctive stupas in the shape of a lotus bud and intricate stone reliefs depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an important historical and cultural landmark that provides an insight into the artistic and architectural achievements of the Sukhothai Kingdom and attracts thousands of tourists every year.[9]
1 The Royal Tombs of Sipan
Located in northern Peru, the Royal Tombs of Sipan were discovered in 1987 by Peruvian archaeologist Walter Alva. The tombs belong to the Moche civilization, which existed between 100 BC and 800 AD. The discovery of the royal tombs of Sipan is considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
The tombs consist of several chambers lavishly decorated with intricate gold and silver artifacts, including jewelry, crowns, and ceremonial items. The main tomb contains the remains of a Moche noble, believed to be a warrior-priest, surrounded by offerings such as pottery and textiles. The tombs also feature a dazzling necklace made of beads more than 3 inches (7 centimeters) in diameter, featuring a spider with body markings resembling a human face and a warrior helmet, emphasizing the connection between warfare and sacred power.
The Sipan Royal Tombs are important for their exceptional preservation of Moche culture, as well as their artistic and cultural importance. The site has yielded more than thirteen royal tombs, making it the richest cemetery in the Western Hemisphere. The graves were found almost completely untouched thanks to the prompt action of the local police. Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Royal Tombs of Sipan are a popular tourist destination in Peru.[10]