Great Historic Sites to Visit Without the Crowds

We live on an old planet and as such, there are some really interesting and fascinating places to see if you look closely enough. Of course, there are very popular historic sites established around the world but if you want to have a little historic moment of your own, follow these handy hints…

The Coliseum

Try a moonlight drive to see the remains of your choice. Not only can you guarantee that the tourists have shuffled back to karaoke night at the hotel but that many ruins can look astonishingly beautiful at night. For instance, grab your Cinquecento and head for the Coliseum in the moonlight. The building throws a mysterious form in the night light. Although it is not permitted to enter this fantastic arena at night, the haunting shapes that are seen from certain angles make this trip a definite when in Rome.

Tulum

The Mayan ruins in Tulum, along the Caribbean coast is like a honey pot to the red faced lobster tourists that pop a bit of culture into their sunbathing week in Cancun. These are the jewel in the crown of Mayan ruins, perched aloft a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The drive is simple and well marked along the highway. When the sun is looking like it’s just getting up , take a  walk a through the ruins until the perfect breakfast spot reveals itself. Imagine sharing the same view with those ancient warriors. It is a truly breathtaking experience.

Hampton Court Palace

Staying in England gives a great opportunity to get some wonderful historic experiences under your belt. One fabulous monument to history is Hampton Court, just outside of London. Easily accessible by car or train, the amazing former residence of the rotund red haired King Henry the eight is worth the effort. It is a magnificent account of opulence and luxury. However, a boat upon the river Thames is often how Henry would travel and if it good enough for a king…Take a boat when the light is starting to fade a little and admire the architecture of this amazing piece of history. Close your eyes and try not to think too much about all of those ladies who lost their heads over King Henry the eighth.

Blackheath

South London is not the place where most history junkies would choose to head for in search of a historic fix. However, Blackheath offers rather interesting venue for a piece of history. There is nothing much to see, just a green expense in a rather lovely enclave of London. It’s what’s going on underneath that surprise the visitor. In the 1600’s the Plague or “Black Death” swept through England, killing thousands. The cemeteries and churchyards simply ran out of space and so great pit were dug and the bodies were thrown in. Blackheath is one of these venues and the atmosphere at sundown is rather spooky. It is simple enough to drive around the Heath and take in this morbid slice of unusual English history. Blackheath is adjacent to Greenwich which is packed full of wonderful historic streets, often used in period drama. Combine a visit and enjoy these alternative history venues.