1. Atlantis
One of the most famous lost cities, Atlantis is a mythical island first mentioned by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato. It is said to have sunk into the ocean in a single day and night. The exact location of Atlantis remains a mystery, with many theories and speculations surrounding its existence.
2. Machu Picchu
Located in Peru, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city perched high in the Andes Mountains. It was built in the 15th century and abandoned during the Spanish conquest. The purpose of Machu Picchu and the reason for its abandonment are still debated by archaeologists.
3. Petra
Known as the 'Rose City,' Petra is a historical and archaeological city in Jordan. Carved into the red sandstone cliffs, Petra was the capital of the Nabatean kingdom. Its intricate rock-cut architecture and water conduit system make it a marvel of ancient engineering.
4. Tikal
Tikal is an ancient Mayan city located in present-day Guatemala. It was one of the largest urban centers of the Mayan civilization and flourished between the 6th century BC and the 10th century AD. The city's impressive pyramids and temples are surrounded by dense jungle, adding to its mysterious allure.
5. Pompeii
Pompeii was a Roman city near Naples, Italy, that was buried under volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. The city was remarkably preserved under the layers of ash, providing a unique glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.
6. Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the early 12th century, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu and later transformed into a Buddhist temple. The intricate carvings and architectural grandeur of Angkor Wat continue to fascinate visitors.
7. Troy
Troy is an ancient city in Turkey that is famous for being the setting of the Trojan War, as described in Homer's epic poems. The exact location of Troy was debated for centuries until archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann discovered its ruins in the 19th century. The site has provided valuable insights into the Bronze Age civilization.
8. Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site in Mexico, known for its iconic pyramid, El Castillo. The site was a major center of the Mayan civilization and served as a religious, political, and economic hub. Chichen Itza's advanced astronomical knowledge is reflected in its architectural alignment with celestial events.
9. Great Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe is an ancient city in southeastern Africa that was the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe. The city flourished between the 11th and 15th centuries, with its impressive stone structures and intricate stonework showcasing the architectural prowess of its inhabitants. The decline of Great Zimbabwe remains a subject of scholarly debate.
10. Ciudad Perdida
Ciudad Perdida, meaning 'Lost City' in Spanish, is an ancient city in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Colombia. Built by the Tayrona civilization around the 9th century AD, it was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. The city's terraces, staircases, and circular plazas are a testament to the advanced urban planning of its builders.
