Ancient cities are fascinating as they tell stories of the past and represent the richness of cultures that have existed for centuries.

Their architecture, art, and infrastructure reflect the historical and cultural legacy of their civilizations. Here are some of the most beautiful ancient cities in the world that are worth visiting:

1. Petra, Jordan

Petra is an ancient city located in Jordan that was once the capital of the Nabataean kingdom. It is known for its magnificent rock-cut architecture, temples, and tombs that are carved into the red sandstone cliffs. The most famous building in Petra is the Treasury, which is a beautifully decorated temple that was used as a royal tomb. Petra is considered one of the new seven wonders of the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is an ancient city located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built by the Inca civilization in the 15th century and is considered one of the most stunning archaeological sites in the world. The city is surrounded by mountains and the Urubamba River, and its stone architecture is breathtaking. It is believed that Machu Picchu was once a royal retreat for Incan rulers.

3. Angkor, Cambodia

Angkor is a vast temple complex located in Cambodia. It was built by the Khmer Empire in the 12th century and is known for its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and extensive water management system. The most famous temple in Angkor is Angkor Wat. Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of tourists every year.

4. Rome, Italy

Rome is an ancient city that was once the capital of the Roman Empire. It is known for its rich history, architecture, and culture, and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum. Rome is also famous for its museums and art galleries, which display some of the most stunning works of art from the Renaissance period.

5. Athens, Greece

Athens is an ancient city that is known for its contribution to Western civilization, particularly in the fields of philosophy, democracy, and architecture. It is home to some of the most important landmarks in the world, such as the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Athens is also famous for its museums, which house some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece.

6. Jerash, Jordan

Jerash is an ancient city located in Jordan that was once a major center of trade and commerce. It is known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, including the oval forum, the Hadrian's Arch, and the Hippodrome. Jerash is also famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins, which provide an insight into the daily life of the Roman Empire.

7. Chichen Itza, Mexico

Chichen Itza is an ancient city located in Mexico that was built by the Maya civilization. It is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of Warriors, and the Great Ballcourt. Chichen Itza is also famous for its astronomical observatory, which was used by the Maya to study the stars and the planets.