The Chullpas of Sillustani are ancient funerary towers dotting the landscape near Lake Umayo in Peru. These cylindrical structures, built by the pre-Incan Qulla people and later used by the Incas, stand as a testament to the region’s complex funerary customs. The towers, some reaching heights of up to 12 meters, were constructed to house…
K’umarcaaj
K’umarcaaj, once known as Q’umarkaj, is a pre-Columbian Maya archaeological site in the highlands of Guatemala. It served as the capital of the K’iche’ Maya kingdom from the 15th century until it was conquered by the Spanish in the early 16th century. The site is notable for its unique architecture, including palaces, temples, and Mesoamerican…
Namazga-Tepe
Namazga-Tepe, an archaeological site located in Turkmenistan, approximately 100 km east of Aşgabat and near the border with Iran, stands as a testament to the Bronze Age Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC). The site has been the focus of extensive excavations since the 1950s, led by notable archaeologists such as Vadim Mikhailovich Masson, Viktor Sarianidi, and I. N. Khlopin. These efforts have significantly contributed to the understanding of the Bronze Age chronology in Turkmenistan, particularly for the periods Namazga III-VI.
Ahu Te Pito Kura
Ahu Te Pito Kura is the largest ahu (ceremonial platform) on Easter Island. It features the largest moai (monolithic human figures) ever erected on the island. The site symbolizes the island’s rich cultural heritage and the engineering prowess of its ancient inhabitants. The moai at Ahu Te Pito Kura, named “Paro,” stands out for its immense size and the mystery surrounding its toppling. The site also includes a spherical stone believed to represent the “navel of the world,” adding to its cultural significance.
Zgërdhesh
Zgërdhesh is an archaeological site located in Albania, known for its ancient ruins that date back to the Illyrian period. The site has garnered attention for its historical significance and the insights it provides into the Illyrian civilization. Excavations have revealed structures and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who…
Qasr-e Shirin (Castle of Shirin)
Qasr-e Shirin is a historical town in western Iran, known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient ruins. The name translates to “Castle of Shirin,” and it is often associated with romantic stories from Persian literature. The town is situated near the border with Iraq and has been a crossroads of various civilizations throughout history….