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.
Monumental Structures
Ziggurat of Kish
The Ziggurat of Kish is an ancient structure located in the once prominent city of Kish, which is now part of modern-day Iraq. This towering edifice is a testament to the architectural ingenuity and religious devotion of the Sumerian civilization. Ziggurats were massive, terraced structures that served as the base for temples and were often dedicated to the main deity of a city. The Ziggurat of Kish, although not as well-preserved as some of its counterparts, like the famous Ziggurat of Ur, remains a significant archaeological site that provides insight into the early urban and religious practices of Mesopotamia.
Izamal Pyramid
In the heart of Yucatán, Mexico, lies the magnificent Izamal Pyramid, a testament to Mayan civilization. Revered by history buffs and adventurers alike, this pyramid, also known as Kinich Kakmó, offers a breathtaking climb with an even more arresting view from the top. Unlike other ancient ruins, Izamal is unique due to the town that embraces it, painting a vivid picture of a place where past meets present. Visitors can walk the same steps ancient Mayans once did, gaining insight into their sophisticated knowledge of astronomy and architecture.
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.
Candi Sukuh Pyramid
Step into the enigmatic realms of Candi Sukuh, a unique Hindu temple situated on the slopes of Mount Lawu in Central Java, Indonesia. This fascinating monument stands out for its pyramidal structure, reminiscent of ancient Latin American architecture. Unlike the typical sharp spires of Javanese temples, Candi Sukuh’s truncated form and unmistakable themes of life and fertility offer a glimpse into a distinctive blend of Indonesian and ancient animist beliefs. Visitors are greeted by a series of reliefs and statues that depict various symbols and rituals, possibly linked to pre-Hinduism practices, making it a treasured asset for cultural aficionados and historians alike.
Tucume Pyramids
The Tucume Pyramids stand as a testament to the Lambayeque culture’s architectural prowess. Nestled in the arid landscape of northern Peru, this ancient site spans over 220 hectares. It’s home to 26 major pyramids and mounds. The main pyramid, Huaca Larga, is one of the largest monuments of its kind in South America. Visitors can explore the complex network of platforms, plazas, and intricate adobe friezes. These reveal tales of a civilization that thrived from about AD 1000 until the Inca conquest.