Amitava Ray

Amitava Ray

I'm a photographer (1979), a blogger (2006), and a reference article's author on Wikipedia, enhancing your next assignment with illustrated knowledge before moving on.

Chichen Itza Facts and History

Chichen Itza El Castillo of Mexican Landmarks

Chichen Itza is a renowned archaeological site located on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It represents one of the most iconic and well-preserved pre-Hispanic cities of the Maya civilization, featuring a blend of Maya and Toltec styles. One of its most iconic structures is El Castillo, also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkan. This pyramid showcases advanced astronomical and mathematical knowledge, with its design aligning with the equinoxes to create a serpent-like shadow descending the pyramid’s steps. The city is home to the Sacred Cenote, a natural sinkhole believed to have held religious significance. It was used for ceremonial purposes, including offerings of valuable objects, jewelry, and even human sacrifices. Explorations of the cenote have revealed a trove of archaeological artifacts. Chichen Itza’s observatory, known as the Caracol, demonstrates the Maya’s advanced understanding of astronomy. The city’s architecture also incorporates precise mathematical and calendrical calculations, evident in the layout of buildings and structures. Here’s a summary of Chichen Itza’s historical and cultural significance:

Monarch Butterfly

Monarch Butterfly Picture

Monarch Butterfly Information, Details, and Pictures: Monarch butterflies are famous for their enormous size, orange and black wings, and long yearly migrations.

UNESCO Sites Egypt

Nubian Monuments of Ramesses II Temple at Abu Simbel of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Egypt

Egypt is home to a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that bear immense historical significance. Among these, the Giza Pyramid Complex is a standout example. Housing the iconic Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, this site is a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural prowess and cultural achievements. The Sphinx, guarding the pyramids, adds to the enigma and grandeur of this complex. The historic city of Luxor, often referred to as the "world's greatest open-air museum". Abu Simbel, an archaeological site in Nubia, boasts two temples constructed by Ramses II. The temples were relocated in a massive UNESCO-led operation to save them from submersion following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The ancient city of Thebes, with its temples and necropolises, is also recognized for its historical importance. Additionally, the Saint Catherine Area, home to Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine's Monastery highlighting Egypt's religious and natural heritage.

Verona Italy

Castel San Pietro, Verona Italy

Verona lies at the foot of the Lessini Mountains in the Veneto Region, a city and province of Italy, and was a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 2000 on.

Urbino Italy

Historic Centre of Urbino

The Historic Centre of Urbino is a small hill town in the Province of Pesaro, Marche Region of Italy, and was a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 1998 onwards.

Siena Italy

Siena Cathedral: Duomo di Siena

Siena City lies about 30 miles south of Florence, in the Toscana or Tuscany region of Italy, and was a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 1995 on.

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves

Ajanta Caves are on the left bank of the river Waghora in the hills of Ajanta, Maharashtra, India, and were a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 1983 onwards.