Holiday Destinations with a Fascinating History

Travelling to historic destinations is a fabulous way to learn more about history without opening a boring textbook. You can immerse yourself in the culture and take guided tours to learn more about the area first hand. Here are five holiday destinations with a fascinating history.

Naples, Italy

After arriving in Naples, it won’t be long before you realise what a varied culture it has. You will find Roman and Greek history in its architecture and paintings. You can visit the Museo Archeologico; a museum in Naples for a collection of Renaissance, Greek and Roman paintings and sculptures. Mount Vesuvius is the backdrop of the city and this volcano famous for preserving the historic city of Pompeii is still active. You can walk through the city of Naples and explore the underground ruins of churches. You can also visit the Cappella Sansevero, Royal Palace of Naples, Castel Nuovo and Castel Sant’Elmo to understand the history of this beautiful city.

Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem is the capital city of Israel and it has thousands of years of history. It is filled with religious monuments from different faiths. Visit the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that contains the Islamic al-Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock; the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulchre; and the Jewish Western Wall Temple Mount. You can also take day trips to explore the thrill of floating in the Dead Sea.

Cuba

Cuba has a rich history with stunning architecture, fine art and beautiful beaches. You can walk along the Malecón which is 7km in length along the sea and explore the city. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes museum has some fine Cuban art which dates back to 500 BC. There are many interesting tours you can go on, and make sure you visit the lighthouse Castillo de los Tres Santos Reyes Magnos del Morro which was built to protect the city from invasion. The Necrópolis Cristóbal Colón cemetery is a beautiful and silent location to reflect on your thoughts. The oldest building Museo de Ambiente Histórico Cubano which was built in 1522 was converted to a museum in 1970.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is 162.6 hectares of pure architecture and serenity. When it was built by King Suryavarman II it was considered an abode of ancient Gods especially built to worship the Hindu God Lord Vishnu. This largest temple complex has more than 3000 Heavenly Nymphs called Apsaras sculpted into them. Angkor Thom has 54 gothic towers and more than 11,000 sculpted figures and was built by King Jayavarman VII. It has now been converted to a Buddhist religious ground. The citadel of women Banteay Srei has elaborate carvings on almost every inch of the temples.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a beautiful city with stunning architecture, amazing cuisine and a rich culture. The works of Antoni Gaudi are renowned in this city. You can visit La Sagrada Família which is a Roman Catholic Church and Casa Milà which is a modernist building to view spectacular architectural designs. You can visit the Park Güell which has panoramic views and the Gaudi museum. The Gothic Quarter in the city is filled with Catalan restaurants, clubs and trendy bars. The Plaça de Catalunya is the city centre filled with cafes and shops and is also used for various events. The Port of Barcelona has a history of over 2,000 years.