Egypt

The modernized world has so much to offer, but truth be told, all these started off somewhere – and then comes the history, a story. Ever since we started school, we have been reminded of historical places, dates and people. The best way to look back into the past and understand these stories it is to go there and see these places. Touch them. Understand them.  By getting familiar with them you can start to understand how wonderful our past cultures were and how they shaped our current state of affairs.

But where to go historical sightseeing? No worries: here are the ten world’s oldest countries, and must-see places to go to in each of these wonderful places

Egypt (North Sudan Included) (3150-3500 B.C)

Egypt is considered as one of the world’s oldest countries. The country is well known for its pyramids, ancient temples, pharaohs and kings. You will also be enchanted by the different mosques, mausoleums, and ancient churches – some of the things to see in Egypt that aren’t pyramids.

As for the best historic sightseeing, I recommend:

• The Pyramid of Giza, one of the oldest pyramids in Egypt
• The Step Pyramid (el Castillo)
• The Khufu Pyramid, with its very complex design
• The Valley of the Golden Mummies, a reminder that our burial practices are just as ‘weird’ as our ancestors’

India (3000 B.C)

India is the world’s seventh largest country based on land area, the second populous country, and one of the world’s oldest countries as well. It is famous today for its Bollywood Films, for colorful costumes, dances, and of course the food. This country has a rich and very distinct culture, producing such incredible and influential personalities like Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Theresa. Did you know that Algebra, Trigonometry and Calculus originated from this country?

Some wonderful historic sightseeing stops in India:

• The Khajuraho Temple, which is one of many templates scattered throughout the area. They’re centuries old and if walls could speak…
• The Ajanta and Ellora caves are located in Maharashtra. The carvings in the caves depict a clear scene of the serenity of Buddha.
• The monuments of Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site

Ethiopia (Eritrea included) (2500-3000 B.C)

Ethiopia is another of the world’s oldest countries, often overlooked from the historical sightseeing perspective. This quiet African nation is one of the world’s oldest independent countries, and its home to some of the world’s most unique (and almost extinct) animal species, such as the Ethiopian wolf, the mountain nyala, the Nubian ibex, and the African wild dog. As you try to figure out Ethiopia’s calendar system, based on an ancient Alexandrian calendar, visit some of these famous historical sightseeing attractions:

• The Castle in Royal Compound, which reflects back to architecture and civilizations long since perished
• The Lalibela, a poignant sight located in the heart of Ethiopia. It is considered by many as the “New Jerusalem.”

China (2000 B.C)

China is one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. It is one of the world’s oldest countries, sometimes known as the sleeping dragon. We all know the country is famous for its terra-cota warriors, for its porcelain ceramics, and and colorful Chinese opera as well as other important contributions of Chinese culture to the world, such as the invention of paper and explosive powder. Did you know one of the world’s best desserts, ice cream, has been invented in this country? And oh, the historical sightseeing abounds…

• The Great Wall is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is known as the “long fortress,” for reasons obvious!
• The Tiananmen Square has been the site of the famous massacre of students who fought for freedom and some feel a symbol for the continued unpopular policies of the country
• The Temple of Heaven, a magnificent temple which feels like it could quite possibly reach out and touch heaven.

San Marino (301 AD)

San Marino is one of the smallest and also one of the world’s oldest countries. It is named after its founder Saint Marinus and located in the northern part of Italy. The people of San Marino, better known as Sammarinese, are known for their friendly hospitality as well as their tasty treats, such as the Piadena and the Cake of the Three Mountains. But you can also explore some great historical sightseeing, such as:

• The San Marino Historic Center where you’ll be blown away by the majestic view of Mount Titano. What was it like to stand here in 301AD?
• The Walls of San Marino are not your average border boundaries; they were build over three different eras. And don’t forget to explore the towers!

France (486 AD)

France, another one of the world’s oldest countries, is probably the most exciting tourist destination in the world. The capital is Paris, one of the most romantic cities in the world, renowned for incredible food such as crepes, french bread, soufflés, mousse and croissants. The Louvre museum is home for the prominent works of art and one of the world’s largest and most respected museums. This is the fashion capital of the world. It is the leading producers of wine and liquors. So as they say in France, “c’est la vie!” There are a lot of historic sites in France, namely:

• The megalith discovery trail in Brittany, where you can find thousands of standing stones, ancient structures and monuments to unknown gods and heros
• The Cemetery of the French Kings, in Saint-Denis, whose incredible displays of design to those who died in the French Revolution will leave you speechless
• The Cathar Castles, a series of fortresses built to protect the French King, are beautiful both for their architecture as well as the view of the countryside

Bulgaria (632 AD)

Bulgaria is a often overlooked Europe secret. Did you know about the famous “Lactobacillus Bulgaricus” which can be found only in Bulgarian air and responsible making yoghurt possible. And did you know that the inventor of the first electronic computer is from Bulgaria? Aside from the people and their inventions, this country is a well known tourist destination, being one of the world’s oldest countries. Some of the popular historical sightseeing includes:

• The Kazanuk Tomb is a must see in Bulgaria, with a façade so beautiful you’ll want to take it home with you
• The Ivanovo Rock Churches are a UNESCO Heritage Site, famous for its well preserved frescoes.
• The Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century, and such an important historical landmark it is printed on the Bulgarian banknote.
• The Nesebar (sometimes Nessebar and Nesebur) has been built from 11th to 14th centuries. On the surface, it is a pretty beach resort town, but this small peninsula has traded ownership across empires for centuries.

Japan (650 AD)

Japan, land of the rising sun, is also a part of the world’s oldest countries. This country has advanced technologies. It has a colorful tradition, such as dramatic dances and fine costumes. Japanese are known for their “manga” and “anime” characters, the geisha, sumo wrestling, and samurai which are part of their culture. They also have the art of flower arrangement called the “Ikebana”. And who doesn’t find the Japanese cuisine fascinating, such as the sushi, kaiseki, and rice cake – all to be eaten with chopsticks! Historical sightseeing at its best:

• The Shinto Itsukushima Shrine has been a sacred place for Shintoism. It has a great traditional architectural design.
• The Himeji Castle is located in Hyogo, one of the world’s finest castles (and doesn’t really even look like a castle)
• The Goryukaku Fort is the best place to watch for cherry blossoms
• The Atomic Bomb Dome is a reminder of the tragic atomic bombing.

Turkey (900 AD)

Aside from taking pride as one of the world’s oldest countries, Turkey is also known today as one of the European Capital of Culture. This country was the backdrop of countless events in history, such as the Trojan War and the landing of Noah’s Ark in Mount Ararat. The Bosphorous bridge in Istanbul connects the continents of Asia and Europe, and today a visit to the capital is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and experiences. Some historical sightseeing suggestions:

• The Temple of Artemis is a temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Diana; it is now just ruins, but it is believed to be one of the most elaborate temples built in this area
• The Maosuleum of Halicarnassus was considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, built in 377 B.C. by the greatest artist of that time.
• The Hagia Sophia is considered one of the world’s greatest monument. It is currently used as a museum.
• The Sultanahmet Mosque or the Blue Mosque, was built by Ahmed I.
• The Ephesus is the best place to step back and imagine how life was like during the old days.

Iran (3200BC)

It’s ironic to think that one of the world’s oldest countries (and a contender for the top spot on the world’s oldest charts) is today embroiled in such controversy. We know the country today as Iran, but this once the land of Persia, a prosperous empire and the largest in ancient history, and one of the empires great kinds, Cyrus the Great, is still buried in a wonderful monument in the country. Other historical sightseeing backdrops:

• Persepolis, the remains of a massive, beautiful city built 2500 years ago
• Yazd, where centuries old engineering and architecture are still in use
• Qom, one of the holiest cities in the Middle East

Editor’s Note:  The  most commonly used dates have been referenced above to indicate the world’s oldest countries. Many if not all of these dates are still under discussion by historians, but we offer them here as an editorial reference, not a scientific one.

Khmer Empire

He Khmer empire was a powerful state in South East Asia, formed by people of the same name, lasting from 802 CE to 1431 CE. At its peak, the empire covered much of what today is Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and southern Vietnam.

By the 7th century CE, Khmer people inhabited territories along the Mekong river -the world’s seventh longest river - from the delta to roughly the modern Cambodia-Laos border, plus the region between that river and the great Tonle Sap lake to the west and the area running along the Tonle Sap river (which runs from the lake to the sea, joining the Mekong in the delta). There were several kingdoms at constant waragainst each other, with art and culture heavily influenced by India due to long established sea trade routes with that subcontinent.

Hinduism mostly, but Buddhism as well, were important religions in the region, mixed with animist and traditional cults. Important cities from that time include Angkor Borei, Sambor Prei Kuk, Banteay Prei Nokor and Wat Phu. A man called Jayavarman II, who is said to have come from a place named Java - which may or may not be the island we call Java in Southeast Asia, led a series of successful military campaigns, subjugating most of these petty kingdoms, that resulted in the founding of a large territorial state. In 802 CE he took the title chakravartin, “universal ruler”, and that date is used to signal the start of the empire.

SEVERAL TIMES THE KHMER FOUGHT WARS AGAINST TWO NEIGHBORING PEOPLES WITH POWERFUL KINGDOMS, THE CHAM AND THE VIETNAMESE.

Using the city of Angkor as capital, for the next centuries the Khmer empire expanded its territorial base, mostly to the north (entering the Khorat plateau) and the west, to the Chao Phraya basin and beyond. To the east outcomes were different: several times the Khmer fought wars against two neighboring peoples with powerful kingdoms, the Cham (in today’s central Vietnam) and the Vietnamese (in today’s northern Vietnam). Despite some victories, as in 1145 CE, when Cham’s capital Vijaya was taken, the empire was never able to annex those lands. Conversely, Chams and Vietnamese enjoyed some victories of their own, the most spectacular of which was Cham’s humiliating revenge, looting Angkor (1177 CE) and pushing the empire to the edge of destruction.

Throughout the empire’s history, Khmer’s court was repeatedly concerned with putting down rebellions initiated by ambitious nobles trying to achieve independence, or fighting conspiracies against the king. This was particularly true each time a king died, as successions were usually contested.

The Khmer were great builders, filling the landscape with monumental temples, huge reservoirs (called baray) and canals, and laying an extensive road network with all sorts of bridges -the main highways are 800 km long. The most stunning temple, Angkor Wat, is a microcosm of the Hindu universe and defies imagination as the world’s largest religious complex - covering 200 hectares; nowadays it is crowded with tourists amazed with ruins that until recently were covered by the jungle. Its construction took some 30 years and was started by one of the greatest kings, Suryavarman II, around 1122 CE.

The empire’s greatest king was Jayavarman VII (r. 1181 CE - 1215 CE). He expelled the Chams who took Angkor, restoring the realm from anarchy, and then invaded Champa (Cham’s kingdom). The scale of his construction programme was unprecedented: he built temples, monuments, highways, a hundred hospitals, and the spectacular Angkor Thom complex - a city within a city in Angkor. Jayavarman also expanded the empire’s territorial control to its zenith.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor’s original name was Yashodharapura (“Glory-bearing city”), and at its apogee it was the biggest city in the world, covering an area of a thousand square kilometres, close to that of modern Los Angeles in the USA. Its population is much harder to estimate, but a figure of aproximately one million is acceptable.

The Khmer were festive people, with many celebrations all the year round. Wrestling, horse races, cock fights, fireworks, music and dances were an integral part of their culture. Most of the realm’s commerce was apparently in the hands of women.The king and the elite were transported on palanquins, and used umbrellas to cover from the sun. There were several religious beliefs present, with Hinduism being favoured (yet not exclusively) by the the kings at first, and Buddhism later. The state was divided into approximately 23 provinces, with a sophisticated administration and extensive personnel going down even to the village level. Censuses were carried out periodically. Although key to the empire’s prosperity, the high officers of this bureaucracy were also part of the plots that plagued the court’s history.

The empire’s decline and final collapse is deeply connected with the great Thai migration of the 12th-14th centuries CE. They inhabitated an area to the north of the empire, roughly where China ends and Southeast Asia begins; the Yunnan. It is a mountainous, harsh land, where a Thai kingdom called Nanchao existed. For unknown reasons, Thai populations started migrating south, in small groups at first. Thais first appear in records as as hired mercenaries for the empire, and their numbers rose as they began to establish themselves as settlers in marginal areas. The migration intensified when Mongol campaigns shook China, and when the Mongols took Yunnan in 1253 CE, further pressure for Thai migration ensued. Eventually the Thai created their own small kingdoms, the most important of them in the western side of the empire. As these kingdoms grew in power, they started to attack and annex imperial territories. The empire’s economy by this time may also have been deteriorated by increased silting of the massive water works that the Khmer core area depended on. The Thai kingdom of Ayutthaya took Angkor in 1431 CE, which constitutes the end of the Khmer empire.

10 World’s Famous Countries to Spend Vacations

Holidaying is what every one of us wants and would like to do for sure. The idea of holiday and that too at a mesmerizing and eye popping gorgeous place simply lures the souls. You cannot help jumping at the idea when you plan your holiday at some exotic magical place. The world is rich in heart-hitting destinations to spend quality time and this article will let you have the details about some of them. Let’s check out before you plan your holidays

10

Thailand

Image Source Thailand is travelers and visitors’ important choice to spend the holidays. Reasons behind it are numerous like low priced hotels, body massages, scrumptious cuisine, gorgeous beaches, friendly people and many other things. The place is rich for your best holidays. Zero in and enjoy the vacations there.

9

Croatia

Image Source Europe’s best and eye candy country is Croatia and you will simply be caught into the magic of the country once you step in the country. It is called one of the best and magical countries in Europe. Either you make your stay at resorts or you plan staying at the islands situated off the coast, it is the best holiday spot in every manner.

8

Egypt

Image Source Egypt is rich in historical buildings and the heritage is what catches your attention and plays magic with you when you land in there. Nile Cruise is best to enjoy with. Cairo is the home to Egyptian Museum – go there and have true fun. The culturally rich things out there will entice your souls.

7

Turkey

Image Source In Turkey, you will find some of the best Europe’s beaches there. Although it is not that cheap these days due to the inflation as it was some 20 years back, nonetheless as compared to other European countries, it is still very economical. Explore Istanbul to lure your souls. Enjoy the tasty food out there.

6

Italy

Image Source World’s wonders welcome you in Italy. Europe’s eye catchy country is Italy that offers the best and superb holiday destinations to have fun and spend quality time there. Come and visit the cities like Rome, Florence and Venice. See historical buildings there and enjoy the city of Venice on waters by floating on the waves boarding on the yachts.

5

U.K

Image Source U.K is among the few world powers and is the country that offers tremendous amount of things and spots to the travelers to enjoy with. Every other traveler would like to visit England. The cities like London, Cambridge, Birmingham and others are laced with rich things to enjoy with. Have fun with London’s nightlife, underground bullet trains, museums, parks and many other things.

4

U.S.A

Image Source U.S.A is the world power and there would be hardly any soul on planet earth who does not want to visit America. Everyone’s dream to come and explore the country that rules the world. The states like New York, California and Florida are the ones which grab the souls of the travelers because of their beaches, foods, lifestyle and the holidays’ spots to get lured with.

3

Greece

Image Source Greece is another Europe’s best country for the holidays and vacations. It must be visited. The country offers endless amount of things for holidays. Its beaches, blue seas and hot sun welcome the travelers. The food is really scrumptious.

2

France

Image Source France is Europe’s best country for the travelers and the best holiday seekers. The city like Paris is enough to raise your spirits. It is the hub for world’s fashion. Come and see Eiffel Tower and the best shopping centers of the world.

1

Spain

Image Source Spain is another classiest country of Europe. It is the central focus of the tourists of the world who love coming back and back to this place for holidays. Eastern Spain is often neglected by the tourists. It must be visited as it has empty beaches, mountains, medieval towns and many other places to spend holidays.

World’s Top 10 : Best Countries to Visits

Italy


The romantic culture and bravado of Italy alone earns a place on this list. Between the wonderful wines and fine dining available throughout the country, this is a vacation that will not disappoint. It is said that two thirds of the world's historical artistic heritage resides in Italy (Spain is a distant second). There are so many sights, but the relaxed culture can also make your visit dolce far niente - essentially doing nothing, an enjoyable one as well.

Australia


Being a country and its own continent, Australia truly has everything under one roof. Sydney is one of the world's finest cities with its architecture and fabulous harbor. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the hidden treasures for water lovers. Queensland is a very fine tropics area. Although the Outback has been largely tamed, the allure is still high for visitors and for good reason. 

Thailand


Tourism has been a booming industry in Thailand for a few years now, so the experience one will have visiting the country will be a magnificent one. The country is truly a mix of old and new. The ancient ruins and villages are juxtaposed with the ultra-modern architecture and five-star hotels and dining. 

France


Every region of France offers something unique and very rewarding. The provinces offer great landscapes and inside view into their unique cultures. Paris brings you to a world of art, food and fashion, three staples to the country's heritage. With such a diverse mix of attractions of environments, France can satisfy any traveler's requirements for a fulfilling visit.

U.S.A


While the country is very large in area, the United States does offer everything one could ask for. Tropical locations in Hawaii and Florida, unique landmarks in the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon and Washington D.C, and wonderful cities like Chicago, Los Angeles and Boston. The country would take a long time to explore, but every region offers a different culture and its own set of wonderful sights.

Japan


The best part of Japanese culture is the way they have mixed thousands of years of tradition with the modern touches of the 21st century. Tokyo and Osaka are must see cities for their unique characteristics. 

Germany


Since putting themselves back together, Germany has been a great place to visit and enjoy. The great food and beer are joined by the booming city of Berlin and the wonderful views from the Rhine and Moselle rivers. While the country is still in a transition process, tourists can enjoy the old world culture with a modern twist when in Germany.

England


There are nine separate regions of England and all are different and intriguing in their own right. The sleepless city of London and the historical Yorkshire are fine places to start your journey. The Northwest region has a variety of sporting events as well as some of the finest rural views you will ever see.

China


China is going through change right now. You may see the tradition market gathering in town, only to be parted by a BMW slowly traveling down the road. The immense history has remained visible and the 2008 Olympics in Beijing doesn't hurt either. The population growth as well as their stake in the world's business affairs is truly a marvel that can only be appreciated up close and personal.

New Zealand


The country boasts some of the most dramatically different terrain in the world, which matches its spectrum of residents. From rain forests to beaches and fjords to meadows, New Zealand has everything covered. It is an outdoor lovers' dream with the vast recreational opportunities at your fingertips. Bring an extra pair of socks because you will need it on your first or next trip to New Zealand.