7 Historic Sites Then and Now

Here are 7 of the most iconic sites "then and now". See what this site once was and how its surroundings have grown, but they still stand tall. All of these sites have been protected by UNESCO and are not only popular among tourists but cherished by their local citizens.

1. Chichen Itza, Mexico

The famous archaeological site and the most visited site in Mexico this year was once unknown to the human race. Years had to go by until American historians and the Mexican government started investigating the area and discover the great Pyramid of Kukulkan. Until this day, people cannot believe the greatness of the Maya City of Chichen Itza. 

2. Colusseum, Italy

The Colusseum in Rome, Italy is one of the most iconic World Wonders there’s ever been. It’s not hard to believe it once was the most important building in town. Settlements and renovation works were carried out, in spite of the various disasters, and bombardments due to wars, and earthquakes, among other damages.

3. Arch of Constantine, Italy

The Arch of Constantine is a triumphal arch in Rome dedicated to the emperor Constantine the Great. The arch was commissioned by the Roman Senate to commemorate Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in AD 312. Today it is found close to the Colusseum and is a very busy street for locals and tourists.

4. Parthenon, Greece

The Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, that was dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of Greek art, an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western civilization. Around 50% of the original architectural decoration on the Parthenon is now lost, having been destroyed over many centuries in the ancient world and later. It is therefore impossible to reconstruct the monument completely or reunite it with its sculptural decoration.

5. Eiffel Tower, Francia

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower. When it was completed in 1889, the Eiffel Tower, Paris's Iron Lady, was expected to stand for 20 years before being dismantled. One hundred and thirty-three years on, the tower is still standing, less by design than through diligent.

6. The Angel of Independence, Mexico

The Angel of Independence, most commonly known by the shortened name El Ángel and officially known as Monumento a la Independencia, is a victory column on a roundabout on the major thoroughfare of Paseo de la Reforma in downtown Mexico City. Today, hundreds of international and national tourists line up to take the iconic picture at the main avenue.

7. Machu Pichu, Peru

Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains in Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. Built in the 15th century and later abandoned, it’s renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone walls that fuse huge blocks without the use of mortar, intriguing buildings that play on astronomical alignments, and panoramic views. Its exact former use remains a mystery. The site of ancient Inca ruins is located about 50 miles (80 km) northwest of Cuzco, Peru, and the road is visited by hundreds of tourists. The ride is definitely worth it!