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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is devoted to protecting some of the most outstanding sites in the entire world. History is a prime component of all the 936 properties that are on UNESCO’s list, and travellers will enjoy visiting the UNESCO sites that are listed below.

The Greek Acropolis

Acropolis UNESCO sites in Athens, Greece

The Acropolis is found in Athens, Greece, and it contains a range of monuments that embody the spirit of this classical civilization. The Acropolis was built in the 5th century BC and it is a wonderful example of the melding of architectural beauty with its natural landscape. This is a grand monument, and it balances massive structures along a rocky promontory that overlooks the sea.

India’s Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is a must see UNESCO site

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous structures in the entire world and a must visit UNESCO site. It is a a grand mausoleum that was built with white marble. The crown jewel of India, it’s known as one of the greatest Muslim monuments in the entire world. It was built between 1631 and 1648 by Shah Jahan, a Mughal emperor, to commemorate Mumtaz Muhal, his dearest wife. The Taj Mahal rests along the banks of the Yamuna River, and is surrounded by vast gardens. The structure is located at the garden’s north end, and it features two sandstone bases that are topped with a massive white marble domed structure. The marble, used in the construction of this monument, glows with the sun and moon, and it offers visitors a spectacular sight.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia‘s north east coast is home to the Great Barrier Reef which hosts an incredible diversity of beauty and sea life. There are more than 4,000 species of molluscs and 1,500 types of fish that live in this area. This coral reef is the most extensive in the entire world, and it is home to a diverse ecosystem. There are close to 3,000 reefs that are included in the Great Barrier Reef, and it covers more than 20,000 square kilometres. Visitors can enjoy an abundance of sea life, and the reef is home to many endangered and threatened species. The dugong, green and loggerhead turtles make their homes here, and it’s a prime breeding ground for humpback whales. Visitors, who enjoy natural beauty, will love a visit to this spectacular location.

Jordan’s Petra

Petra in Jordan - must UNESCO sites

Petra is an ancient Jordan city that is carved into rock and surrounded by steep mountains that are filled with elaborate passages and gorges. Petra is found between the Red and Dead seas and has been inhabited since the beginning of time. There are elaborate examples of temple and tomb architecture found in this fabulous city, and it’s home to the Palace Tomb, the Um Tomb and the Corinthian Tomb. Visitors, to this site, can revel in the architecture and history of the oldest city on the earth.

London’s Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens, London

Visitors to the Kew Gardens in London can enjoy over 250 years of history. These gardens include a host of species, and it’s the most famous botanical exhibition on the planet. There are delightful orchids that flower at night. Visitors can enjoy a climb in the treetops or a visit to the rainforest. Cheap hotels in London are located near the gardens, and they provide fabulous lodging amenities.

U.S.A.’s Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is found in Wyoming, United States, and it covers 9,000 square kilometres of natural forest. This must visit UNESCO site is home to over 3,000 geysers and a variety of wildlife live within the park. Wolves, bison and grizzly bears can be seen throughout Yellowstone National Park, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the largest intact ecosystem in the northern temperate zone.

UNESCO has developed an extensive list of natural sites that appeal to tourists. All of these sites have features that provide visitors with a memorable vacation. Forests, architecture and wildlife are some of the fabulous things that vacationers can enjoy at UNESCO sites.