Guiengola is a significant archaeological site located in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. It was a pre-Columbian Zapotec fortified city, known for its unique hilltop location and strategic defensive attributes. The site offers a glimpse into the Zapotec civilization and their architectural prowess. Guiengola is less known compared to other Mesoamerican ruins, yet it provides valuable insights into the region’s history and culture.
Historical Places
Erk Kala (Fortress of Alexander)
Erk Kala, also known as the “Fortress of Alexander,” is an ancient archaeological site located in modern-day Turkmenistan. It is part of the larger site of Merv, which has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Erk Kala dates back to the 6th century BC and is the oldest of the five main sites that make up the historical urban center of Merv. The site is a testament to the various cultures and empires that have influenced the region, including the Achaemenid Empire, the Hellenistic period, and later Islamic cultures.
Albanopolis
Albanopolis, an ancient city located in present-day Albania, has intrigued historians and archaeologists for years. Its exact location remained a mystery for centuries until archaeological evidence pointed towards the vicinity of Zgerdhesh hill, near Krujë. The city’s origins trace back to the Illyrians, an ancient group of people who lived in the Balkans. Ptolemy, the Greco-Roman geographer, first mentioned Albanopolis in his work, suggesting its significance during antiquity. Despite its historical importance, much about Albanopolis remains shrouded in mystery, making it a fascinating subject for study.
Koshoy Korgon (Qoshoy Qorgon)
Koshoy Korgon is an ancient fortress located in the At-Bashy district in Kyrgyzstan. It stands as a testament to the region’s historical significance, particularly during the period of the Turkic Khaganate. The site is a sprawling ruin, indicative of a once-mighty stronghold that played a crucial role in the defense and administration of the area. Its earthen walls, although now eroded, outline the formidable structure that would have been a hub of activity in its heyday.
Altar de Sacrificios
The Altar de Sacrificios is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Petén department of Guatemala. It sits at the junction of the Pasión River and the Chixoy River, a strategic position that once facilitated control over trade routes. The site is known for its ceremonial architecture, including several temples, plazas, and an altar that gives the site its name. The discovery of the Altar de Sacrificios has provided valuable insights into the Maya civilization, including their religious practices, social structure, and interactions with neighboring cultures.
Komchen
Komchen is an ancient Mayan site located in the northern Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It’s known for its significant archaeological remains, which provide insights into the Preclassic period of Mayan history. The site features a range of structures, including residential complexes, ceremonial platforms, and a dense concentration of habitation remains. Komchen serves as a crucial piece in understanding the development of Mayan civilization and its early urbanization processes.