Travel back in time with these 9 incredible lost civilizations

Hidden within Jordan's desert canyons, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Its tombs, temples, and monuments were carved directly into sandstone cliffs centuries ago.

Aksum was the centre of the powerful Aksumite Empire, which controlled trade routes linking Africa, Arabia, and the Mediterranean. Today, towering stone stelae dominate its landscape.

Once the heart of the Khmer Empire, Angkor was among the world's largest pre-industrial cities. Its vast temple complexes showcase extraordinary architecture, engineering, and religious heritage.

Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu served as a royal estate of the Inca Empire. Its terraces, temples, and stonework remain remarkably preserved.

Bagan was the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, which unified much of present-day Myanmar. Thousands of temples and stupas still rise across its expansive plains.

Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, Great Zimbabwe was the capital of a prosperous African kingdom. Its massive stone walls were constructed without mortar.

Located in Okinawa, Shuri Castle was the Ryukyu Kingdom's political and cultural centre. While fires destroyed the original halls, visitors today can explore its newly restored structures.

The capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi was once one of the world's largest cities. Its temples, markets, and monuments are scattered among granite boulders.

Persepolis served as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Persian Empire. Its grand palaces, reliefs, and columns reveal the wealth and influence of ancient Persia.