Nestled in the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, lies a temple unlike any other: Otagi Nenbutsu-ji. This temple is not just a place of worship but also a gallery of whimsical stone statues that capture the imagination. The temple itself is around 1,200 years old, but the statues are a much more recent addition, dating back to the 1980s.
The Islamic city of Balat in Egypt
The Islamic city of Balat is located in the Dakhla Oasis in Egypt and is approximately 1,000 years old. It was primarily built during the Islamic era, although the oasis itself has a much longer history of human habitation. The city was an important administrative and trade center during medieval times.
Nuraghe Is Paras
Nuraghe Is Paras is an archaeological site located in Sardinia, Italy. The site is approximately 3,000 to 3,500 years old and is part of the Nuragic civilization, a prehistoric culture unique to Sardinia. Nuraghe are megalithic structures that served various purposes, including as fortresses, dwellings, and religious or community centers.
The Cumaean Sibyl’s Cave
The Cumaean Sibyl’s Cave, also known as the Sibyl’s Cave or Antro della Sibilla, is located in Cuma, near Naples in Italy. The cave is estimated to be over 2,500 years old and is traditionally associated with the ancient Greco-Roman civilization. According to legend, the Cumaean Sibyl was a prophetic priestess who resided in the cave and offered her prophecies there.
The Thinker of Hamangia
The Thinker of Hamangia is a Neolithic clay figurine that dates back to around 5000 BCE, making it approximately 7,000 years old. It was discovered in 1956 near the town of Cernavodă, Romania, as part of the Hamangia culture.
Silbury Hill Prehistoric Mound
Silbury Hill is a prehistoric monument located near Avebury in Wiltshire, England. It is an artificial mound that stands at 39 meters high, making it the largest man-made mound in Europe. Its construction began around 2400 BCE (4,423 years ago) and took many years to complete.