The Ariyannur Umbrellas are a significant megalithic site located in Kerala, India. These ancient burial stones, also known as ‘Kudaikkallu,’ resemble huge umbrellas and date back to the Iron Age. They are a testament to the region’s prehistoric culture and have intrigued archaeologists and historians alike. The site comprises several umbrella stones, which are large, mushroom-shaped laterite structures. They are believed to mark burial sites and have been a subject of fascination due to their unique shape and construction.
Historical Places
Karystos Ancient Quarry
The Karystos Ancient Quarry, also known as the Cipollino Marble Quarries, is a remarkable archaeological site located on the Greek island of Euboea. This site is renowned for its unique green marble, known as Cipollino, which was highly prized in ancient times. The quarries have a rich history that dates back to the Classical era of Greece and were extensively used during the Roman period. The marble from Karystos was used in many significant buildings across the ancient world, including the construction of temples, public buildings, and monuments. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient methods of quarrying and marble extraction that have influenced architecture throughout history.
Aswan Quarry
The Aswan Quarry in Egypt is a place of historical significance, known for its stone quarries that supplied granite for many ancient Egyptian monuments. The most notable feature of the quarry is the Unfinished Obelisk, which would have been the largest piece of stone ever carved by the Egyptians had it been completed. The quarries offer a glimpse into ancient stone-working techniques and have been a source of archaeological interest for many years.
Haʻamonga ʻa Maui
The HaÊ»amonga Ê»a Maui is a remarkable stone structure located in the Kingdom of Tonga. Often referred to as the ‘Stonehenge of the Pacific’, this megalithic trilithon is made from three massive limestone slabs. It stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the ancient Tongans. The name translates to ‘The Burden of Maui’, alluding to the legendary Polynesian demigod known for his strength. The structure’s purpose remains a subject of debate, with theories ranging from an astronomical observatory to a royal gateway. Its construction is attributed to the 11th TuÊ»i Tonga, TuÊ»itatui, dating back to the 13th century. The HaÊ»amonga Ê»a Maui continues to be an important cultural landmark and a source of national pride for Tonga.
Leshan Giant Buddha
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.
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.