Places Around the World That Look Like Egypt112

Egypt is a land of ancient wonders, from the towering pyramids of Giza to the sprawling temples of Luxor. But did you know that there are other places around the world that share a striking resemblance to this enigmatic country? Here are 15 destinations that will transport you to the land of the pharaohs without ever leaving your continent:

1. Petra, Jordan

Carved into towering sandstone cliffs, the lost city of Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of the World. Its Treasury, Monastery, and Siq canyon are reminiscent of ancient Egyptian architecture, earning it the nickname "the Rose City of Egypt."

2. Tikal, Guatemala

Deep in the rainforests of Guatemala lies the ancient Maya city of Tikal. Its towering pyramids, intricate temples, and carved stelae bear an uncanny resemblance to those found in Egypt's Valley of the Kings.

3. Copán, Honduras

Another ancient Maya city, Copán boasts a wealth of well-preserved structures, including pyramids, temples, and ball courts. Its hieroglyphic staircase, depicting the history of the city's rulers, is particularly similar to Egyptian hieroglyphs.

4. La Venta, Mexico

Located in the humid lowlands of Tabasco, La Venta was a major Olmec civilization center. Its iconic colossal heads, weighing up to 30 tons, have been compared to the Sphinx of Giza.

5. Baalbek, Lebanon

Baalbek, a Roman city in eastern Lebanon, is known for its colossal temples and a massive, unfinished stone platform that dwarfs even the pyramids of Giza.

6. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Rising out of the jungle, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress and palace built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. Its imposing rock formation and frescoed walls evoke the grandeur of ancient Egypt.

7. Meroë, Sudan

Meroë was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kush, a rival of Egypt during the pharaonic era. Its pyramids, though smaller and less well-preserved than those of Giza, still offer a glimpse into Sudan's rich history.

8. Giza Necropolis, Argentina

Believe it or not, there's a replica of the Giza Necropolis in the heart of Buenos Aires' Recoleta Cemetery. This full-scale reproduction includes pyramids, a Sphinx, and a mock-up of the burial chamber of King Khufu.

9. Pyramid of Varennes, France

Located in the village of Varennes-sur-Allier, this 19th-century folly recreates the shape of the Great Pyramid of Giza, complete with a sphinx-like figure at its entrance.

10. Pyramid of Cestius, Italy

This tomb in Rome, built around 12 BC, is modeled after the Egyptian pyramids. It was constructed as the resting place for a wealthy Roman official named Gaius Cestius.

11. Great Ziggurat of Ur, Iraq

Though not a perfect match for Egyptian pyramids, the Great Ziggurat of Ur offers a glimpse into Mesopotamia's ancient architectural marvels. This massive, stepped structure was once a religious temple and pilgrimage site.

12. Pyramids of Güímar, Canary Islands

These six step pyramids, located on Tenerife, may not be Egyptian in origin, but their similarity to the pyramids of Giza have intrigued researchers. Their enigmatic purpose remains a mystery.

13. Temple of Edfu, Egypt (Abu Simbel)

While not located outside of Egypt, the Temple of Edfu, also known as Abu Simbel, deserves a mention. Its grandeur, preserved in southern Egypt, rivaled the temples of ancient Thebes and perfectly captures the architectural splendor of pharaonic Egypt.

14. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Wadi Rum, a vast desert in southern Jordan, has been dubbed the "Valley of the Moon" for its awe-inspiring rock formations. Its canyons and sand dunes bear a striking resemblance to the landscape of Egypt's Western Desert.

15. Abu Dhabi Louvre, United Arab Emirates

This modern art museum in Abu Dhabi houses a collection of Egyptian artifacts alongside masterpieces from other civilizations. Its replica of the Great Sphinx and other Egyptian-themed exhibits offer a glimpse into ancient Egypt in the heart of the Gulf.

2024-12-16

Previous：Egypt‘s Unforgettable Sights: A Guide to the Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions

Next：Visa-Free Gems in Africa‘s Affluent Nations