The Madara Rider, also known as the Madara Horseman, is a magnificent historical monument situated in northeastern Bulgaria. This relic, carved into a 100-meter-high cliff, dates back to the late 7th century. The Madara Rider is unique, being the only such relief found in Europe from the Early Middle Ages. It depicts a horseman thrusting a spear into a lion lying at his horse’s feet. An eagle is shown flying in front of the horseman, and a dog runs after him.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city located in the Basin of Mexico, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Established around 100 BC, it was the largest city in the pre-Columbian Americas, with an estimated population of 125,000 or more, making it at least the sixth largest city in the world during its epoch. The city is known for its well-preserved murals, vast Avenue of the Dead, and the impressive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.
Kalasasaya
Kalasasaya, an ancient archaeological site located in western Bolivia, is a part of the larger Tiwanaku site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Kalasasaya” translates to “standing stones” and is a testament to the site’s impressive stone architecture. The complex is renowned for its precision-cut stones and the Gateway of the Sun, a monolithic doorway intricately carved with depictions of a deity and celestial symbols.
Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo, often referred to as ‘Ollanta’, is a town and an Inca archaeological site in southern Peru. This historic gem, nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is approximately 60 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco. It’s one of the most monumental architectural complexes of the ancient Inca Empire, often considered a living museum. Ollantaytambo is famed for its terraces, intricate stone constructions, and the Sun Temple.
The Antikythera mechanism
The Antikythera mechanism, a fascinating artifact from ancient Greece, is considered the world’s first analog computer. Discovered in a shipwreck near the Greek island of Antikythera in 1901, this complex clockwork device was used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses decades in advance. It also tracked the four-year cycle of the ancient Olympic Games. Despite being over 2,000 years old, its intricate engineering and sophisticated functionality continue to astound scientists and historians alike.
Tikal
Deep in the rainforests of northern Guatemala, the ancient city of Tikal (In Mayan times, probably called – Yax Mutal) stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Maya civilization. Once a bustling metropolis and a powerful city-state, Tikal is now one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world, attracting history enthusiasts and explorers alike.