Gordion, the ancient capital of Phrygia, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of this ancient civilization. Located at the modern site of Yassıhüyük, approximately 70-80 km southwest of Ankara, Turkey, Gordion’s strategic position at the confluence of the Sakarya and Porsuk rivers afforded it control over fertile lands and a pivotal role in the trade routes between Lydia and Assyria/Babylonia.
Erbil Citadel
The Erbil Citadel, a historical marvel, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of human civilization. Perched on a prominent tell, or occupied mound, it dominates the skyline of Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. This ancient structure is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world, with evidence suggesting that its history stretches back at least 6,000 years. The citadel’s strategic position has seen it witness countless cultural and historical shifts, from the Assyrians to the Ottomans, and it remains a symbol of the enduring human spirit.
Pilsen Underground Tunnels
The Pilsen Underground Tunnels are a labyrinthine network of passageways beneath the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. Spanning over 20 kilometers, these tunnels date back to the 14th century. They served various purposes, from beer storage to shelter during sieges. Today, they are a testament to medieval urban planning and engineering, attracting tourists and historians alike.
Beersheba (Tel Be’er Sheva)
Tel Be’er Sheva, also known as Tel Sheva or Tell es-Seba, is an archaeological site of significant historical importance located in the Southern District of Israel. It is widely believed to be the location of the ancient biblical town of Beer-sheba. The site is situated east of the modern city of Beersheba and west of the Bedouin town of Tel Sheva. It has been preserved and is accessible to the public as part of the Tel Be’er Sheva National Park.
Chunhuhub
Chunhuhub, a pre-Columbian archaeological site, is situated in the state of Campeche, Mexico, near the town of Bolonchén de Rejón. This site, which developed during the Classic Mesoamerican period, is part of the Puuc region, renowned for its unique architectural style. The name Chunhuhub, derived from the Yucatek Maya language, translates to “Next to the Snail,” although some interpretations suggest it means “trunk or place of the Hunhub tree.”
Cerro de la Estrella
Cerro de la Estrella is a significant Mesoamerican archaeological site located in the southeastern part of the Valley of Mexico, within the Iztapalapa mayoralty of Mexico City. Positioned at an elevation of 2460 meters above sea level, its summit rises 224 meters above the Valley of Mexico. This site, known historically as Huizachtecatl, played a crucial role in the religious and cultural practices of the ancient inhabitants of the Mexican Plateau, notably as the location for the “New Fire” ritual ceremony.