Na’akuto La’ab is a monolithic church located in the northern part of Ethiopia. Carved from a living rock, it is a testament to the country’s rich religious history and architectural ingenuity. The church is associated with King Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty, who is said to have commissioned its construction. Na’akuto La’ab stands as a significant pilgrimage site and a remarkable example of Ethiopia’s medieval period rock-hewn churches.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
Caliphate City of Medina Azahara
The Caliphate City of Medina Azahara, a palatial city complex, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Umayyad dynasty in al-Andalus. Built by Caliph Abd-ar-Rahman III in the 10th century, it served as a political and administrative center. Located near Cordoba, Spain, the ruins reflect the cultural zenith of the Caliphate of Cordoba. The city was short-lived, however, as it was sacked during a civil war and fell into ruin. Today, it is an archaeological site that offers invaluable insights into Islamic art, architecture, and civilization in medieval Spain.
Necropolis of Carmona
The Necropolis of Carmona is a significant archaeological site located in Carmona, Spain. It serves as a window into ancient burial practices and social structures. This ancient cemetery, dating back to the Iron Age and Roman periods, is renowned for its elaborate tomb structures. The site provides invaluable insights into the rituals and beliefs of past civilizations that once thrived in the region.
Iskanwaya
Iskanwaya, located in the La Paz Department of Bolivia, is an archaeological site atop a hill overlooking the Rio Muñecas valley. Dating to around 1500 AD, this ancient city is a key site of the Lupaqa culture near Lake Titicaca, with a comprehensive urban layout comprising residential domains, public zones, and ceremonial sectors.
Ancient Vani
Ancient Vani, nestled in the rolling hills of western Georgia, stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Colchian civilization. This archaeological site, dating back to the 8th century BC, was a thriving center of trade, culture, and religion. Its discovery has shed light on the mysterious Colchian kingdom, known from Greek mythology as the destination of Jason and the Argonauts in their quest for the Golden Fleece. The artifacts unearthed at Vani, including exquisite gold jewelry, bronze sculptures, and pottery, offer a glimpse into the life and artistry of an ancient people who once dominated the eastern shores of the Black Sea.
Complejo Arqueológico de Todos Santos
The Complejo Arqueológico de Todos Santos is a captivating historical site nestled in the highlands of Ecuador. This archaeological complex offers a window into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and culture of the indigenous people who once thrived in the region. The site includes a variety of structures, such as ancient temples, plazas, and burial sites, which provide invaluable insights into the social and ceremonial practices of its former inhabitants.