Archaeological sites

Archeology in a metro station

An archaeological site is any place with physical evidence of past human activity. Such sites might be from pre-history as well as history; even remnants from modern times can count as archaeological sites.

The leave-no-trace principle is mandatory for these places. Legal consequences for trespassing in closed areas, damaging remnants, or removing artifacts, might be harsh. Respect local authorities.

Some archaeological sites give opportunities for tourists to take part in excavations. Other sites have developed into tourist traps, where commerce is dominant above the genuine experience.

If an archaeological site is still inhabited, it is an Old Town.

Buy

There are several kinds of archaeological souvenirs:

• Genuine artifacts: Possession of these might be illegal. In every case collecting at archaeological sites destroys valuable historical information. You need a scientific strategy, elaborated methods and the permissions of the relevant gouvernmental authorities.
• Forged artifacts: Claimed to be genuine, but might cause as much trouble as a genuine artifact.
• Official replicas: Often sold by museums; probably the safest choice for a traveller

Famous archaeological sites

Europe

Restoration work at the Acropolis

• Greece: Athens/Acropolis, Olympia, Knossos, Rhodos
• Italy: Rome/Colosseo, Pompeii
• United Kingdom: Stonehenge

Middle East

• Egypt: Luxor
• Turkey: Ephesus, Troy
• Iraq: Babylon

Africa

• Tunisia: Carthage
• Egypt: Giza, Abu Simbel
• Malia: Timbuktu

Asia

Angkor Wat

• Cambodia: Angkor Wat

Americas

• Guatemala: Tikal
• United States: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Moundsville, Ohio prehistoric sites

See also

• Architecture
• Urbex
• World Heritage