Ancient civilisations are the foundations on which our modern world is built. From the innovative Sumerians to the world-conquering Romans, these societies changed the course of history in significant ways. So it’s no surprise that many of us are interested in learning about them.
Thankfully, we don’t need to dust off dense textbooks to learn about ancient civilisations. Instead, why not follow in the footsteps of explorers and set off on a journey to discover them for yourself?
In Guatemala, you’ll uncover towering Mayan structures and villages still practising ancient customs. While in Italy, antique Roman sites are tucked away amongst thriving cities. So, whether you’d like to explore ruins or unlock the secrets of artefacts in museums, there are plenty of places to choose from.
With this in mind, we’ve pulled together 10 countries to visit to learn about ancient civilisations.
Note: While Egypt is undoubtedly one of the best places to learn about ancient civilisations, we’ve chosen not to include it in this list for now, due to travel advice from the UK Government.
1. Greece
Ancient Greece is one of history’s most influential ancient civilisations. From the spellbinding poetry of Homer and the philosophy of Aristotle to the first seeds of modern democracy, the Ancient Greeks were revolutionary scientists, artists, and thinkers. And what better way to learn about them than a trip to Greece?
In Athens, you’ll find mesmerising historical sites like the Acropolis and the Theatre of Dionysus, plus informative spots such as the National Archaeological Museum, home to over 11,000 exhibits. If Greek mythology is more your thing, why not head to the island of Delos instead, where twin gods Artemis and Apollo were said to be born? Or visit the sun god’s temple at Delphi, home of the legendary oracle.
If you’re interested in planning a trip, our article, 8 historic sites to visit in Greece, has plenty more suggestions of places to visit.
2. Mexico
Centuries before Christopher Columbus landed in the Americas, many ancient civilisations flourished in Mexico. These include the Mayans and the Olmec people – whose famous colossal stone heads can be seen at places like San Lorenzo and Mexico City’s National Anthropology Museum.
If you’re into ancient architecture, why not visit the remarkably well-preserved city of Chichen Itza? Every equinox, the sunlight falls on the steps of the Temple of Kukulkan in such a way that a feathered serpent appears – a testament to the Mayans’ technological innovation! Between educational excursions, you can also relax on Mexico’s glorious beaches with a margarita in hand.
3. China
From the mythical Xia dynasty (whose existence is still debated) to the golden age of the Tang dynasty, ancient China is a fascinating corner of history. As well as birthing some of the world’s most important scientific and cultural inventions (such as paper and gunpowder), many astounding relics of ancient China are still visible today.
Aside from the Great Wall, history lovers will want to visit the ruins of Yin Xu – the capital city of the Shang Dynasty, who ruled from 1300 BCE to 1046 BCE. The mausoleum of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, is also unmissable. Located in the Lintong District, this is the site of the famous, thousand-strong terracotta army made to protect the Emperor in the afterlife. Discovered in 1974, this breathtaking feat of art lay hidden for over 2,000 years.
4. Italy
As commanders of one of the largest empires in history, the Ancient Romans are remembered for their military prowess, feats of engineering, and technological advancement. And their influence can be seen worldwide. But where better to learn about them than in Rome, which is home to iconic sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill?
As well as the capital, you can see Ancient Roman footprints all over Italy. Head to the southwest coast to discover the preserved wonders of Pompeii and Herculaneum. See how royals lived by visiting the ruins of palatial estates like Villa dei Quintili and Hadrian’s Villa. Or marvel at the now underwater Roman resort town of Baiae near Naples.
For more ideas, check out our article; 10 historic sites to visit in Italy.
5. Ethiopia
As Africa’s oldest independent country, there’s plenty of ancient history in Ethiopia. Perhaps the most famous place to visit is the ruins at Aksum, near the northern border. This bygone city served as the heart of the mighty Aksumite Kingdom, which was founded in 150 BC. Nowadays, you can discover the towering obelisks, royal tombs, and crumbling mansions that remain.
Other captivating ancient sites include the medieval, rock-carved churches at Lalibela and the Yeha Temple – the oldest standing structure in Ethiopia, circa 700 BC. Between trips to ancient sites, why not soak up this country’s mesmerising natural scenery – like the roaring Blue Nile Falls – or the unique wildlife on a safari in the Simien Mountains National Park?
6. Jordan
As part of the passageway between Europe, Africa, and Asia, Jordan has played host to numerous ancient civilisations. Undoubtedly the country’s most iconic landmark, the ‘Rose City’ of Petra was built by the nomadic desert traders, the Nabataeans, who eventually decided to settle down in the third century BC. Romans then took it over in 106 AD.
In the capital of Amman, you’ll find a 6,000-seat Roman amphitheatre and the mysterious Citadel, home to a lonely hand that many believe belonged to a gigantic lost statue of Hercules. When you aren’t visiting the wonders of antiquity, you can also spot endangered ibexes in the Dana Biosphere Reserve or try scuba diving in the warming waters of the Red Sea.
7. Guatemala
As the heart of Mayan civilisation, Guatemala offers plenty of opportunity to learn about this ingenious civilisation. Top of many travellers’ must-visit lists is Tikal, the largest and best-preserved Mayan city. Made up of 3,000 structures – including the iconic pyramid-shaped temples – Tikal also has an aqueduct system that not only transported water, but purified it.
While there are plenty of other archaeological sites to visit, the Mayans still have a visible influence on Guatemala, with millions of Mayan descendants living here and practising the traditions of their ancestors. Try visiting villages like San Juan del Obispo and Santa Maria de Jesus to immerse yourself in authentic, modern Mayan culture.
8. India
Compared to great ancient cultures like the Egyptians and Mesopotamians, the Indus Valley Civilisation is relatively unknown, but it’s no less impressive. Spanning an area from north-eastern Afghanistan to north-west India, this culture is known for its complex cities, inventive farming techniques, and a writing system that remains indecipherable to this day.
While some of the major archaeological sites of the Indus Valley Civilisation are found in Pakistan, there are still plenty of interesting experiences in India. For example, why not stay in Ahmedabad and visit Lothal, home to the world’s earliest known dock? When you’re back, you can check out the rest of what the city has to offer, including Gandhi’s former house, dazzling temples, and a range of informative museums.
9. Peru
When it comes to ancient Peru, many people think of the Inca Empire, which arose sometime during the 13th century. However, there were civilisations here long before then. In fact, the Sacred City of Caral-Supe, which archaeologists have identified as the oldest city in the Americas, dates back 5,000 years – and touring these ruins is a must for any history buffs.
The fortified city of Kuelap (also called ‘the Machu Picchu of Northern Peru’) is also worth a visit if you’re interested in pre-Inca civilisations. Perched atop a mountain and boasting sweeping views of the valleys below, the fortress was built by the Chachapoya people (known as the ‘Warriors of the Clouds’) and originally spanned 150,000m². Today, you can wander through well-preserved circular buildings and visit the on-site museum.
10. United Kingdom
Of course, you don’t need to set off beyond our humble shores to discover ancient civilisations. Why not head to Hadrian’s Wall or Fishbourne Palace, the largest Roman residence in Britain? Complete with a stunning mosaic floor, an on-site museum, and gardens, Fisbourne is informative and visually stunning. Take a look at our article, 12 Roman sites to visit in the UK, to find out more.
Or, if you’d like to go back even further, check out some of the fascinating Iron Age sites scattered all over the UK. Popular attractions include hillforts (like the one in Danebury) and Mousa Broch in the Shetland Islands, one of the best-preserved prehistoric structures in Europe. Check out this list from The Guardian to discover more ancient sites.
Final thoughts…
From the misty mountain jungles of Peru to the dry deserts of Jordan, there are plenty of beautiful countries to visit if you want to learn more about ancient civilisations.
If you’re a history buff looking for travel ideas, why not read our articles; 14 must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites or 10 World War II sites you can visit in Europe? Or, if you’d rather stay closer to home, check our favourite Victorian sites and places with Viking connections to visit in the UK.
You may also like to browse the upcoming history talks running on Rest Less Events.
Have you visited any of these countries? If so, where was your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.