Delve into the mysteries of ancient metropolises that vanished over time. From the Amazon’s hidden cities to the sands of Petra, uncover the stories of civilizations lost and found.
Throughout history, numerous cities have risen to prominence, only to fade into obscurity due to natural disasters, invasions, or the passage of time. These lost cities, once bustling centers of culture and commerce, now offer glimpses into the past, waiting to be rediscovered and studied.
1. Mohenjo-daro, Pakistan
Picture Credit: Saqib QayyumΒ
Located in the Sindh province of Pakistan, Mohenjo-daro was a major urban center of the Indus Valley Civilization around 2500 BCE. Known for its advanced urban planning, including grid layouts and sophisticated drainage systems, it was rediscovered in the 1920s.Wikipedia+1TravelTriangle.com+1
π Learn more about Mohenjo-daro
2. Petra, Jordan
byΒ Abdullah GhatashehΒ viaΒ pexels
Carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra served as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Flourishing around the 1st century BCE, it was a vital trade hub. The city was abandoned after earthquakes and changing trade routes, remaining hidden until its rediscovery in 1812.
π Explore the wonders of Petra
3. Machu Picchu, Peru
byΒ Laetitia SaadΒ viaΒ pexels
Perched high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel built in the 15th century. Abandoned during the Spanish Conquest, it remained unknown to the outside world until 1911.
4. Angkor, Cambodia
byΒ Tiago CardosoΒ viaΒ pexels
Once the heart of the Khmer Empire, Angkor was a sprawling city with magnificent temples like Angkor Wat. Environmental changes and invasions led to its decline in the 15th century.
π Visit Angkor’s ancient temples
5. Pompeii, Italy
byΒ Marvin MachlerΒ viaΒ pexels
In 79 CE, Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying Pompeii under volcanic ash. The city remained preserved for centuries, offering a snapshot of Roman life upon its excavation in the 18th century.
π Uncover the history of Pompeii
6. Ciudad Perdida, Colombia
Known as the “Lost City,” Ciudad Perdida was built by the Tayrona people around 800 CE. Hidden in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it was rediscovered in the 1970s.
π Learn about Ciudad Perdida
7. Great Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe
byΒ Simon BergerΒ viaΒ pexels
Great Zimbabwe was a medieval city known for its impressive stone structures. Flourishing between the 11th and 15th centuries, it was a center of trade and culture in southeastern Africa.
8. Tikal, Guatemala
byΒ Roberto NicksonΒ viaΒ pexels
A major city of the ancient Maya civilization, Tikal was inhabited from the 6th century BCE to the 10th century CE. Its towering pyramids and temples are now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
π Visit Tikal National Park
9. Hattusa, Turkey
byΒ Εinasi MΓΌldΓΌrΒ viaΒ pexels
The capital of the Hittite Empire, Hattusa was a fortified city with grand temples and royal residences. Abandoned around 1200 BCE, it was rediscovered in the early 20th century.
10. Derinkuyu, Turkey
An underground city in Cappadocia, Derinkuyu could house up to 20,000 people. Carved from soft volcanic rock, it served as a refuge during invasions and was rediscovered in 1963.businessinsider.com
π Explore Derinkuyu Underground City
The stories of these lost cities remind us of the impermanence of human achievements and the enduring allure of history. As archaeology and technology advance, who knows what other forgotten civilizations await discovery beneath our feet?
Many places I wish I could visit.
Wonderful cities! Well shared with beautiful photos π
Wonderful β