The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich history. Once the thriving capital of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, it now lies in majestic ruin. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the advanced urban planning, impressive architecture, and intricate artistry of a bygone era. Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as the capital in the late 10th century and flourished during the reign of the great King Parakramabahu I. Its well-preserved ruins include palaces, temples, and stupas, offering a glimpse into the past glory of Sri Lankan civilization.
Cities
Ancient cities were centers of civilization, often surrounded by walls for protection. They were hubs of trade, culture, and politics, and many contained monumental buildings and temples. Cities like Rome, Athens, and Babylon were powerful centers of the ancient world.
Angamuco – Lost Pyramid City
Angamuco, a lost pyramid city in Mexico, unveils a unique chapter in Mesoamerican history. This sprawling metropolis, home to over 40,000 structures, rivals the size of Manhattan. Researchers believe the Purepecha civilization, rivals of the Aztecs, built it around 900 AD. The city’s discovery enlightens us on this complex society’s urban planning and cultural practices. Most notably, Angamuco features a rare orthogonal layout. This indicates advanced knowledge of architectural design and city planning.
The Ancient City of Perrhe
The ancient city of Perrhe is a testament to the cultural and historical wealth of southeastern Turkey. Once a bustling hub in the Commagene Kingdom, it captivated many with its architecture and artistry. Visitors today can marvel at remnants of this bygone era, including temples, statues, and colonnaded streets. The Antioch mosaic, a stunning piece, adds to the allure, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. This site not only reflects the grandeur of Perrhe but also offers insights into ancient urban living and religious practices.
Nushabad Underground City
Located in central Iran, Nushabad Underground City, known locally as Ouyi, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient engineering. This subterranean city dates back to the Sassanian era and remained in use until the Pahlavi dynasty. With its intricate network of tunnels lying up to 18 meters below ground level, Nushabad provided residents with a refuge from the harsh desert climate and invading forces. Remarkably, the city encompasses residential areas, corridors, chambers, and water channels, showcasing sophisticated urban planning and sustainable living practices from bygone centuries. This heritage site is not only a testament to human resilience but also acts as a window into the past, allowing visitors to walk through history.
Shahr-e Sukhteh (Burnt City)
Shahr-e Sukhteh, known as the ‘Burnt City’, is a remarkable archaeological site in Iran. Its origins trace back to the Bronze Age, over 5,000 years ago. This ancient settlement offers a unique glimpse into early urban life. It spans over 151 hectares, revealing complex social structures, progress in various crafts, and early residential models. Found in the Sistan and Baluchestan province, Shahr-e Sukhteh was a hub for culture and trade emerged. Its interaction with Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley was extensive. This illustrates the city’s strategic importance in ancient trade routes. It was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List for its valuable contribution to human history and culture.
Naples Underground City (Napoli Sotterranea)
Naples Underground City invites visitors to take a rare glimpse into the layers of history buried beneath the bustling streets of Naples. This historic site, known locally as Napoli Sotterranea, spans a fascinating subterranean network of tunnels and chambers. The underground city, carved from the soft tuff stone, dates back to over 2400 years. It served various purposes throughout the ages. From Greek aqueducts and Roman theaters to World War II bomb shelters, each corner tells a unique story. Guests can explore this labyrinthine world and marvel at the remnants of civilization. They will learn how these ancient passageways have been integral to Naples’ defense and evolution.