5 lost cities you can still visit today

History is full of incredible cities that thrived in their prime before being abandoned due to war, natural disasters, or shifting civilizations. While many lost cities remain hidden under layers of earth, some have been rediscovered and are now fascinating travel destinations. Here are five lost cities you can still visit today:

One of the most well-known lost towns in the world is Machu Picchu, which is tucked away high in the Andes Mountains. This historic stronghold, which was constructed in the 15th century by the Inca civilisation, was abandoned during the Spanish invasion and was kept secret until 1911, when it was rediscovered. Today, tourists may explore its terraces, temples, and well-preserved stone monuments while admiring the stunning panoramic views of the neighbouring mountains.

Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in the fourth century BC and was called the "Rose City" because of its beautiful pink sandstone cliffs. After thriving as a significant trading centre, the city was forgotten until it was rediscovered in 1812 by Swiss adventurer Johann Burckhardt. Ancient tombs, monasteries, and alleyways cut out of rock are all must-sees, as is the most famous location, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury).

The famed Angkor Wat temple, the biggest religious structure on Earth, is located in Angkor, which was formerly the centre of the Khmer Empire. The jungle gradually recovered this enormous city, which flourished from the ninth to the fifteenth century. Today, tourists can experience the magnificence of an old civilisation by meandering through elaborate stone temples, enormous reservoirs, and enigmatic passageways.

Pompeii, a thriving Roman city, was frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, covering it in volcanic ash. This catastrophic event preserved streets, buildings, frescoes, and even the remains of its residents, offering an eerie but fascinating glimpse into Roman life. A visit to Pompeii is like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved amphitheaters, bathhouses, and marketplaces.

Once a strong Mayan city that thrived from the sixth to the tenth centuries, Tikal is now buried deep in Guatemala's woods. Until its rediscovery in the 19th century, the lush rainforest engulfed its tall pyramids and plazas once it began to deteriorate. Today, tourists may climb historic buildings, explore its enormous temples, and even listen to howler monkeys resonating across the forest.