The Hoysaleswara temple is a stunning example of Hoysala architecture from the 12th century. Located in Halebidu, Karnataka, India, it was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is renowned for its intricate sculptures and detailed carvings. It stands as a testament to the skill and artistry of the Hoysala craftsmen. The temple’s construction began around 1121 CE and continued for several decades. Despite its incomplete status, it remains a significant heritage site and a masterpiece of Indian art.
Historical Places
Imperial City of Huế
The Imperial City of Huế stands as a monumental landmark in central Vietnam. It was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal dynasty of Vietnamese history. This sprawling complex of palaces, temples, walls, and gates served as the political, cultural, and religious center of Vietnam from 1802 until 1945. The Imperial City is renowned for its traditional Vietnamese architecture, with influences from French design during the colonial period. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical significance and well-preserved structures.
Musawwarat es-Sufra
Musawwarat es-Sufra is an archaeological site located in Sudan, known for its vast ruins that date back to the Meroitic period. The site features a large temple complex, which is one of the largest known Meroitic settlements. The name itself translates to “painted” or “depicted,” hinting at the potential presence of murals or art that once adorned the walls. Despite its grandeur, the exact purpose of the complex remains a mystery, with various theories suggesting it served as a pilgrimage center, a royal residence, or a training ground for elephants used in war.
Čertovy hlavy
The Čertovy hlavy, or Devil’s Heads, are a striking pair of giant sculptures carved into the sandstone cliffs in the Czech Republic. Towering at about 9 meters high, these eerie faces overlook the village of Želízy near the town of Mělník, about an hour’s drive from Prague. Created by Czech sculptor Václav Levý in the mid-19th century, the sculptures have become a curious and somewhat mysterious attraction, drawing visitors intrigued by their size, history, and the legends that surround them.
Caldragh Cemetery Boa Island
Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, is an ancient site steeped in mystery and history. Known for its enigmatic stone figures, including the Janus figure and the Lusty Man, the cemetery dates back to the early Christian period. These unique stone carvings have captivated the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the past and the spiritual beliefs of the people who once inhabited the region.
Arzhan
Arzhan is an ancient site known for its kurgan burial mounds located in the Republic of Tuva, Russia. These monumental structures date back to the Scythian period, around the 9th to 8th centuries BC. The site gained international attention when it revealed a wealth of artifacts and insights into Scythian culture and burial practices. Arzhan is particularly famous for the Arzhan-2 burial mound, which contained the remains of a Scythian ruler and his consort, along with an astonishing array of grave goods.