Theme;Historical cities

Theme;Historical cities

Cusco, Peru
A city located high in the Andes Mountains, Cusco was once the capital of the legendary Incan Empire. Not much is known about the city’s origins, but it is believed that it was built in the image of the puma, an animal sacred to the Incas. Either way, it is clear that the city was constructed in adherence to distinct urban planning. Cusco was advanced both economically and administratively. Heads of household were expected to pay taxes, and city officials used the money to build infrastructure and provide food and security to the people in times of need. It was also a hub for mathematics, astronomy, and calendar systems. Many ruins are located just outside of the modern city center, which also offers plenty to do and see.
Alexandria, Egypt
Before Alexander the Great founded it in 331 BC, Alexandria was already an important port city due to its location on the Egyptian Nile Delta. Alexandria was once a premier center of knowledge in the ancient world. It was home to a vast library of scrolls, one of the largest in ancient times. The library stood as a symbol of culture and intellectual achievement, until it was burned down in a fire that Julius Caesar himself started. The city was also home to Eratosthenes, the philosopher who discovered the earth was round through his measurements. Centuries later, Alexandria played a significant role in Napoleon’s military operations, also due to its central location.
Prague, Czech Republic
One of the most historically preserved cities in Europe, Prague offers a perspective of life in the middle ages. Some famous figures from Prague include the artist Alphonse Mucha (although born in Ivančice), and author Franz Kafka. Mozart was also a frequent visitor here.
The Bohemian city is rich in folklore; it was home to a historically large Jewish community, and had a significant monastic presence. In Prague you can also find the oldest functioning astronomical clock, the Prague Castle, and the tavern where Pilsner beer was first produced.
It was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and more recently, a member of the Soviet Bloc. Since the Czech Republic gained its independence, Prague has become an increasingly chic city with a multicultural presence, great commercial centers, and acclaimed eateries.
Athens, Greece
No doubt, Athens has played a fundamental role in shaping the Western world into what it is today. By 1400 BC the city was already prominent in the ancient world. It has actually been inhabited for over 7000 years. A city-state of the once-burgeoning ancient Greece, Athens played a critical role in shaping philosophy, drama, literature, and science.
Varanasi, India
Dating all the way back to 11th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh on the River Ganges, and many come to its banks to perform funeral rites, as it is believed those who die here will be granted eternal life.
Varanasi is also home to many temples, making it one of Hinduism’s seven holy cities. One of its most notorious sites is the Golden Temple, which honors the Hindu god Shiva.
Nowadays the bustling Varanasi is as vibrant and colorful as ever. Visit to experience the moving rites of life and death taking place at the riverbank, and get lost in one of the city’s many ancient labyrinthine passageways.