It’s scary to think about but some of the coolest pieces of history around the world are in danger of disappearing. These are places that have stood the test of time—yet they’ll need a lot of TLC to stick around for future generations. Let’s take a look at 12 of them. We’ll find out where they are and why they’re on the edge.
Featured Image Credit: Pexels.
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall is so long that it stretches over 13,000 miles but sadly, parts of it are disappearing. Both natural erosion and people taking pieces of it (yeah, really) are wearing it down, meaning that we could eventually lose it forever. Losing the wall would be a huge blow to Chinese history.
Venice, Italy
Venice may be the city of canals but it’s actually sinking. That’s right—this beautiful city with its gondolas & historic buildings is slowly going underwater due to rising sea levels and flooding. If we don’t figure out a way to stop this, Venice could become a city that we can only see in pictures.
The Old City of Jerusalem
Jerusalem’s Old City is at the center of Middle Eastern history & conflict which isn’t a great mix for preservation. Many of the local ancient buildings are at risk because of the ongoing regional tensions. As such, we can all agree that the area needs peace—not just for the people but also for preserving history.
Machu Picchu, Peru
High up in the Andes, Machu Picchu has been under the weight of its own popularity. Too many visitors are wearing out this ancient Incan city & changes in the environment are threatening its stability. It was hidden for many decades and only rediscovered in the last two centuries – yet it could disappear forever.
The Historic Center of Shakhrisyabz, Uzbekistan
In Shakhrisyabz, modern development is knocking down historic neighborhoods that were once part of the ancient Silk Road. As a result, the local area is losing its historical look & feel, even though this once drew people from all over the world. The people here will have to figure out a way to keep the old while embracing the new.
Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania
Beyond being an incredible wildlife destination, Selous also has historical rock paintings. Unfortunately, poaching & the threat of industrial projects like dam building are threatening the site, which could mean we lose some incredible treasures. It’s a race against time to keep these natural and historical stories from being lost.
Ashur (Qal’at Sherqat), Iraq
Once upon a time, Ashur was the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Yet this ancient city is facing destruction from environmental damage & vandalism. To make matters worse, Iraq’s political instability makes it even harder to protect and maintain this site. Losing it would be devastating for our understanding of ancient civilizations.
The Everglades, USA
You may know that the Everglades in Florida are a natural wonder but did you know they’re a historical treasure too? Native American tribes & early settlers, for example, have a long history there. Today, though, the sheer number of invasive species and pollution could mean we lose this important piece of American history.
The Walled City of Baku, Azerbaijan
Baku is yet another ancient city that’s suffering from new developments. As more housing is built, this ancient walled city’s history is starting to crumble and its old-world charm is going with it. If we’re not careful, it’ll become just another faceless modern city that has none of the original’s uniqueness.
Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra, Indonesia
Sumatra’s rainforests are important for both the wildlife & historical tribal communities. But logging and agriculture are eating away at these forests—there are even plans to cut through them with roads. Of course, some groups are fighting to protect these forests since they understand that we could lose centuries of culture.
Timbuktu, Mali
You’ve probably heard of Timbuktu and may even know a little about its ancient manuscripts & unique architecture. But all of that is under threat. Desertification and security issues in the region make it hard for people to keep this architectural wonder safe. Soon enough, it may no longer exist.
The Pyramids of Meroë, Sudan
Did you know there are pyramids in Sudan? Yep, the Pyramids of Meroë are part of an ancient city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Kush. Unfortunately, multiple issues are threatening these amazing structures, including erosion, damage from sandstorms and neglect. Looters have also taken their toll and left these historical gems vulnerable.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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