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| Petra, Jordan |
Throughout history, there have been numerous breathtaking cities that were once bustling centres of civilization but are now largely forgotten or abandoned. Here are a few notable examples:
Petra, Jordan: Petra was the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom and is famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs, the city was a major trading hub in ancient times. It was rediscovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in the early 19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Machu Picchu, Peru: Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Built in the 15th century and abandoned during the Spanish conquest, the city remained hidden from the outside world until it was rediscovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.
Angkor, Cambodia: The ancient city of Angkor was the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries. It is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, as well as numerous other temples and structures. The city was abandoned in the 15th century and remained largely hidden in the jungle until it was rediscovered by French explorers in the 19th century.
Persepolis, Iran: Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire and is renowned for its impressive ruins and monumental architecture. Built by King Darius I in the 6th century BCE, the city was destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE. Today, Persepolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination in Iran.
Tikal, Guatemala: Tikal was one of the largest and most powerful cities of the ancient Maya civilization. Located in the dense rainforests of northern Guatemala, the city reached its peak during the Classic Period (c. 200-900 CE) before being abandoned for unknown reasons. Rediscovered in the 19th century, Tikal is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major archaeological attraction.
These forgotten cities offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of the civilizations that once thrived there. Despite being abandoned or lost to the ravages of time, they continue to captivate the imagination of people around the world.
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