The Leshan Giant Buddha is a monumental statue carved into the side of Mount Lingyun in Sichuan Province, China. Towering at 71 meters (233 feet) tall, it represents Maitreya Buddha and overlooks the confluence of three rivers. It is the largest stone Buddha in the world and a masterpiece of Buddhist art. The construction began in 713 AD, led by a Chinese monk named Haitong, and was completed in 803 AD, long after his death. This colossal structure is not only a significant religious symbol but also an incredible feat of engineering. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996, attracting visitors from around the globe.
Ancient Civilizations
All Ancient Civilizations, Cultures and People
Badelunda Stone Ship
The Badelunda Stone Ship is a remarkable ancient structure located in Västmanland, Sweden. It’s a stone ship setting, a type of megalithic monument found in the Nordic countries. These structures are shaped like ships and made from large standing stones. The Badelunda Stone Ship is one of the largest in Sweden and is situated near the town of VästerÃ¥s, on the ridge of BadelundaÃ¥sen. It dates back to the Nordic Iron Age or the Viking Age, serving as a grave field and a ceremonial site. The site is a testament to the maritime culture that was central to the Norse people and their view of the afterlife.
Ruins of the Guge
The Ruins of the Guge are a testament to the ancient Guge kingdom that once flourished in the far west of Tibet. This archaeological site reveals a civilization that thrived for centuries before mysteriously disappearing. The ruins are located on a high and dry plateau, offering a glimpse into a sophisticated culture with a unique blend of Buddhism and indigenous beliefs. The remnants of palaces, temples, and houses, along with intricate murals and statues, provide valuable insights into the artistic and spiritual life of the Guge people.
Etowah Indian Mounds
The Etowah Indian Mounds are a prehistoric Native American archaeological site located in Bartow County, Georgia. They are considered one of the most significant Mississippian culture sites in the Southeastern United States. The site includes six earthen mounds, a plaza, village site, borrow pits, and defensive ditch. The largest mound, Mound A, rises over 60 feet high and is thought to have been the platform for the home of the site’s chief or for religious ceremonies. These mounds were part of a society that thrived from around A.D. 1000 to 1550, and they offer a glimpse into the organization, culture, and daily life of the indigenous peoples of the region.
Tepe Sialk Ziggurat
The Tepe Sialk ziggurat stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of ancient civilizations. Located in modern-day Iran, this ancient structure is a remnant of the once-thriving Elamite civilization. The ziggurat’s ruins hint at a complex society with advanced knowledge of building techniques. Over time, it has sparked the curiosity of historians and archaeologists alike, eager to unravel its mysteries and the stories of the people who built it.
Lubaantun
Lubaantun is a pre-Columbian archaeological site of the Maya civilization located in the southern district of Toledo, Belize. Known for its distinctive architecture, which includes large pyramids and platforms arranged in a series of terraces, Lubaantun stands out as a significant center of the Late Classic period Maya. The site is famous for the discovery of the controversial Crystal Skull by the daughter of archaeologist F.A. Mitchell-Hedges. Lubaantun’s structures are primarily made from black slate rather than the limestone typical of the region. This has intrigued archaeologists and visitors alike, as it presents a unique example of Maya stone construction techniques.