Cultural and historical landmarks of Europe. The Republic of Belarus is an ancient Slavic country with protected forests and picturesque lakes

1. Moscow Kremlin in Russia

The Kremlin is the "heart" of the great and mighty Russia and the pride of all its citizens. And not only we admire the Kremlin, but also people from all over the world. This fortress is located in the center of Moscow, the largest city in Europe in terms of population, the residence of the President of the Russian Federation.

2. Eiffel Tower in France

What is Paris without the Eiffel Tower? According to many tourists, the Eiffel Tower is the main attraction of Europe. The Eiffel Tower is the most visited and most photographed landmark in the world! From its opening in 1889 until 2008, 236 million people visited it! The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron structure built by the French engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed by Émile Nougier and Maurice Koechlin, for the World Exhibition in Paris in 1889. The Eiffel Tower for 41 years, with its 330 meters, was also the highest on the planet. This is a symbol not only of Paris, but of the whole of France.

3. Old Town Square in the Czech Republic

The Old Town Square in Prague is one of the most charming and beautiful squares in Europe. It is home to beautiful monuments such as the Gothic Tyn Church with two towers over 80 meters high, the Church of St. Nicholas and the Town Hall, whose façade is adorned with the most famous and beautiful medieval astronomical clock in the world, built in 1490.

4. St. Basil's Cathedral in Russia

Basil's Cathedral is undoubtedly the most symbolic sight of Russia and one of the most famous in Europe. This Orthodox church is located on Red Square in Moscow. Known worldwide for its colorful onion-shaped domes. Its construction was started by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible in honor of the conquest of the Kazan Khanate, and continued between 1555 and 1561. The cathedral consists of nine separate chapels dedicated to each of the saints on whose holidays Ivan the Terrible won battles. Undoubtedly, this cathedral is the main monument and symbol of Russian architecture, attracting millions of foreign tourists.

5. Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Spain

The capital of Spanish Catalonia - Barcelona, ​​in addition to its beautiful beaches, boasts unique architectural objects. Sagrada Familia or Sagrada Familia is a cathedral in Barcelona, ​​the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí, who had a hand in many of the sights of Barcelona. This best example Catalan modernist architecture. The temple began to be built in 1882, and its construction is still underway! And its end is not to be seen even in the next 10 years. The work done by Gaudí, i.e. the façade of the Nativity and the crypt, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Today it is one of the most famous attractions in Spain and Europe.

6. Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle is located on a rock in the Bavarian Alps in the Füssen region. It was built by order of the Bavarian King Ludwig II in 1866. Neuschwanstein Castle has been awarded the first place in the ranking of the most impressive castles in the world. It is also one of the most important and visited attractions in Europe and the most photographed building in Germany, which inspired Walt Disney to create the famous Cinderella castle.

7. Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy

This is the famous "leaning" tower - the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italian city Pisa. Part of the architectural complex of the famous Square of Miracles, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most important and visited attractions in Europe. Due to her attractiveness, she even "starred" in the movie "Superman". It is noteworthy that for several years now, contrary to its name, the tower no longer falls. These are the results of many years of work to strengthen its foundation. If these works had not been carried out, then in a few decades, the tower would finally have really collapsed and the world-famous landmark would have disappeared from the face of the Earth forever.

8. Stonehenge in England

Most famous archaeological site of the world - the mysterious Stonehenge, which, apparently, is more than 5000 years old. It is located 130 km from London. Scientists still cannot come to a consensus about what is the true purpose of this object. Stonehenge is a Late Neolithic (20th century BC) megalithic monument located near the town of Amesbury in Wiltshire. It is not known exactly what it was before - a burial place, an observatory, etc., but one thing we know for sure - Stonehenge is an important attraction in Europe.

9. St. Peter's Cathedral in the Vatican

The main architectural dominant of the Vatican - the smallest state in the world, located within the city of Rome - is the impressive St. Peter's Basilica. This is the largest historical Christian church in the world. This cathedral is the most important temple of Catholicism and one of the most beautiful in Europe, in the construction of which such famous architects as Bramante, Michelangelo and Carlo Maderno took part. The sights of the Vatican include the Apostolic Palace, which is the official residence of the Pope in the Vatican, and includes the Vatican Museums and the Vatican Library, including the famous Sistine Chapel with frescoes by Michelangelo.

10. Athens Acropolis in Greece

Athens is an incredible city that is home to history, freedom, rebellion and age-old traditions. The Acropolis in Athens is not only considered an important monument of Europe, it was also one of the main contenders for the title of the new seven wonders of the world. It is located on a hill 156 meters above sea level in Athens. Most of the main temples of the acropolis were built under the direction of Pericles during the Golden Age of Athens (460-430 BC). Inside you can see the Temple of Nike Apteros and the famous Parthenon. At the end of the Acropolis is an outstanding architectural monument Erechtheion. It is simply impossible not to visit the Parthenon, the personification of the Acropolis. This is the most important in Western world memo ancient culture which every traveler should visit at least once in his life. The Parthenon was built in 438 BC. for a great sports and religious celebration. It is dedicated to the goddess Athena, and its name means "the dwelling of the virgin."

11. Hagia Sophia in Turkey

For centuries, Hagia Sophia has been a symbol of the Byzantine Empire. Everyone will remember this building forever, seeing the greatness of its dome and other parts that are visible from all over the Bosphorus. After the Ottoman conquest of the city, the cathedral was turned into a mosque, and then into a museum by the decree of Kemal Ataturk. Today it is the most famous and photographed landmark of the city of Istanbul.

12. Parliament building in Hungary

Budapest is rightfully one of the ten most beautiful cities in Europe, despite its youth. The hallmark of the city is an outstanding architectural structure - the Hungarian Parliament Building, which combines neo-Gothic and Beaux-Arts elements.

13. Edinburgh Castle in Scotland

The 900-year-old fortress in the Scottish capital - Edinburgh, is one of the most popular attractions in Europe. It is truly a unique place with a unique atmosphere.

14. Old city Dubrovnik in Croatia

The historical center of Dubrovnik is surrounded by fortress walls. It is located on the steep coast of the Adriatic Sea. According to UNESCO, Dubrovnik, along with Venice and Amsterdam, is one of the three most beautiful cities in Europe.

15. Atomium in Belgium

This building was opened in Brussels in 1958 and is a kind of symbol of the atomic age and the peaceful use of atomic energy. The height of the Atomium is 102 meters. At first they talked about the need to demolish this structure, since it does not fit into the general architectural ensemble cities. However, the Atomium soon became the main symbol of Brussels, eclipsing the most popular Manneken Pis. Undoubtedly, the atomium is a landmark that stands out from the rest with its modern and unusual design.

16. Palace of Versailles in France

Located in the city of Versailles, this palace is one of the most beautiful in the world. Its construction began on the orders of Louis XIV, and the result was an imposing and majestic building, with the most beautiful gardens in the world, covering over 800 hectares. The Palace of Versailles is of great artistic value. Of particular importance is the "Mirror Gallery" - an impressive hall that is 73 meters long and has 375 mirrors. It is also the place where the First World War ended in 1919 with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles. This magnificent palace is a World Heritage Site and one of the finest monuments in Europe.

17. Big Ben in England

Big Ben is the famous tower of the Palace of Westminster, the seat of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. This almost 100-meter tower with a huge clock installed on it - Big Ben - is London's most famous landmark. This peculiar building with a height of 96 meters, built in 1858, has become the main symbol of London, and is considered the third largest clock tower in the world. The hero of countless films, Big Ben is certainly one of the best attractions in England and all of Europe.

18. Colosseum in Italy

Along with the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum is a great symbol of the city of Rome. With a history of 2000 years and measuring 188 meters long, 156 meters wide and 57 meters high, it is the largest and oldest Roman amphitheater, and one of the best preserved. Here, more than 50,000 people could enjoy gladiator fights, executions of prisoners, etc. The theater remained active for over 500 years, until the sixth century, when the last games were held. Considering that the Roman Colosseum is considered one of the seven new wonders of the world, it deservedly takes the first place in our ranking of the best sights in Europe.

19. Brandenburg Gate in Germany

Located in the heart of the city of Berlin, the Brandenburg Gate is the symbol of Germany. They were built by the architect Carl Gottgard Langgans in 1788-1791 during the reign of Frederick William II of Prussia, and are modeled after the main entrance to the Acropolis in Athens. During the Second World War, the attraction was badly damaged, and the Chariot was almost completely destroyed. During the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961, the Brandenburg Gate was left in no man's land, with no access to either East or West. Because of its history and beauty, this gate deserves to be among the best attractions in Europe.

20. Blue Mosque, or Sultanahmet Mosque in Turkey

Sultanahmet or the Blue Mosque business card Istanbul. It is considered an outstanding example of Islamic architecture. Every year, it is this attraction that attracts many thousands of tourists of any faith to Istanbul: both Muslims and Christians.

21. Tower Bridge in England

This is another famous attraction in London that can compete for the title of the most popular with Big Ben. It is a drawbridge with two towers, 65 meters high, made in the Gothic style.

22. Alhambra in Spain

Alhambra - a palace complex built by Muslims with beautiful gardens on the hill of Granada, where the monarch of the Emirate of Granada was located. This is an architectural ensemble, including luxurious palaces, the delightful gardens of the Generalife and the fortress. The beautiful Andalusian interior style and hillside location make the Alhambra one of the most beautiful and popular attractions in Europe and the world.

23. Trullo in Italy

Fabulous fake houses in the region of Puglia make up the whole settlement of Alberobello, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. According to legend, these white round houses with a conical gray roof arose thanks to ingenuity local residents. Construction in this area was prohibited, so if necessary, it was possible to destroy the trullo to the ground in the blink of an eye, taking out just one "secret" stone. Today, most of them are stylization, quite stable, but very pretty.

24.Ronda in Spain

Lost in the mountains, the capital of the white cities of Andalusia and the birthplace of bullfighting, first of all, attracts tourists with the opportunity to walk along the cyclopean New Bridge (Puente Nuevo) over the deep Tagus Gorge. In fact, it was new in the 18th century, connecting two parts of the city, spread over two picturesque rocky plateaus. And today it is the main (and very photogenic) attraction, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

25. Mont Saint-Michel in France

The monastery castle on top of a rocky island impresses with its medieval monumentality against the backdrop of idyllic landscapes with sheep and cows grazing in the surrounding meadows. But the main feature lies in its unique location - in the middle of the bay with the most powerful tides in Europe. Twice a day, the water surrounds the island, leaving only the dam open, and then recedes for many kilometers, exposing the entire space between the castle and the coast.

photo found on the internet

The British edition of The Telegraph compiled list of outstanding attractions in Europe, which you should definitely visit at least once in your life - admire nature, touch history or just relax and change the situation. The list also includes the tourist centers of Russia - Red Square was in 14th place, and the Hermitage - in 29th. And this is what the top 10 main European attractions look like according to The Telegraph.

Part of the national tourist road No. 64 links a series of rocky islands off the coast of Norway. The bridges themselves are an architecturally interesting sight (especially the so-called "drunken" bridge). But the surrounding views are striking in the harsh northern beauty - the dark sea, dazzling snowy peaks, and if you're lucky, you can spot whales swimming by.

9. Chenonceau Castle, Loire Department, France

The beautiful castle, located on a bridge over the river Cher, was once built by King Henry II for his favorite, Diane de Poitiers. He seemed to have stepped out of the pages of a fairy tale, and even children (it's no secret that children rarely have reverence for architectural monuments) will be happy to look inside. Going to, be sure to visit France.

8. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The journey to the top of the Matterhorn is recommended only for the most experienced climbers. Therefore, it is better to enjoy the views of the majestic snowy peak from Zermatt, one of the most famous resorts in Switzerland. A pyramid-shaped mountain 4,478 meters high was conquered by man only 150 years ago and cost the pioneers four human lives.

7. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Once Hagia Sophia was a Christian temple, then, after the conquest of Constantinople, it became a mosque, and now it is a museum (although calls to prayer are still heard from the minarets several times a day). Inside the huge building, you can see the remains of a shining Byzantine mosaic and masterpieces of Arabic calligraphy.

6 Semana Santa, Spain

Semana Santa is Holy Week, the week before Easter. At this time, many religious processions take place in Catholic Spain. As if the figures in pointed hoods that have come down to us from the depths of the Middle Ages carry platforms with figures depicting scenes from biblical history from church to church.

5. Pamukkale, Turkey

This bizarre natural monument resembles a series of giant steps - stone pools filled with bright blue water. Nearby is the ancient city of Hierapolis. True, admiring the miracle of nature can spoil the endless crowds of tourists: Pamukkale is one of the most visited attractions in Turkey.

4. Acropolis, Greece

Nearly three million people visit this historical monument antiquity in 26 centuries. Worth a look there at night, when the Parthenon is flooded with golden light against the dark southern sky.

3. Sistine Chapel, Italy

The masterpiece of Michelangelo's masterpieces is located in Apostolic Palace in Rome. A fresco depicting the Last Judgment occupies the entire wall behind the altar, and the 40 by 13 meter ceiling is covered with biblical paintings.

2. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, ​​Spain

Although the construction of the cathedral, designed by Gaudí at the end of the 19th century, has not yet been completed, it is a magnificent sight. And on the surrounding streets there are houses built by the same architect with candy windows, as if straight from a fairy tale.

1. Var, France

And the leader in the rating of attractions that are recommended to be seen at least once in a lifetime is a place called Var - one of the administrative units of the Provence region, France. Var is considered one of the most beautiful places in France, and there is something to see in this country. The greenish-blue waters of the Gorges du Veron, lush lavender fields, tiny stone houses hidden in the folds of the rolling hills, winding roads ... And, of course, hotels and guesthouses where you can have a great meal, enjoy the views, relax from the city crowds and taste the real Provence .

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Var, Provence (France)

From the greenish-blue waters of the Gorges du Verdon to the endless lilac lavender fields, the Var is considered the most beautiful part of Provence. Stone houses form tiny villages hidden between winding roads. There you will not be annoyed by crowds of tourists. You can stop and have a delicious meal, see the best views of Provence, and feel the very real taste of life in this region, which is described in Peter Meil's book A Year in Provence.

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Barcelona, ​​Spain)

Be sure to see with your own eyes the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the construction of which began in late XIX century and still remains unfinished, but in the scaffolding this grandiose structure seems even more spectacular. The architecture of Antoni Gaudí fills the streets and boulevards of the Catalan capital, his playful and surreal works are recognizable in every corner of the city. Inspired by the tale of Hansel and Gretel, the architect created Park Güell in accordance with the English idea of ​​a "garden city". It is also worth seeing and taking pictures on the famous winding snake bench. Entrance to the park costs €8, but if you want to look at the creations of Gaudí without spending money, wander through the streets of the city and find the houses of La Pedrera, Casa Vicenç and Casa Batllo, you can admire them from the street absolutely free.

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Sistine Chapel, Italy

The masterpiece of all Michelangelo's masterpieces is in the Apostolic Palace in Rome. The Last Judgment fresco occupies the entire wall behind the altar and part of the ceiling. Its length is 40 m, width is 13 m, it includes nine bible stories. Take a closer look at the work of the great master, and imagine that you yourself are painting this wall. By the way, keep in mind that it is often closed by forests, so choose the time to visit the chapel carefully.

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Acropolis, Greece

About three million tourists visit the Acropolis in Athens every year. This is a great reason to join them. These "sacred stones" date back to the 5th century BC, and the Parthenon, the most famous temple of the Acropolis, with 46 Doric columns, is considered the most famous building in classical architecture. It is advised to look at the Acropolis in the night light, you will have a magnificent view of the old temples, bathed in the golden light of searchlights.

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Pamukkale, Turkey

This petrified cascade powerful waterfall is located on the slope of a valley in the picturesque southwestern region of Turkey. Surreal travertine steps on the edge of the Anatolian Plateau are next to the ruins ancient city Hierapolis. It is easy to get here, and therefore there are a lot of tourists here every day. Pamukkale is considered the most visited attraction in Turkey and deserves to be seen with your own eyes.

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Semana Santa, Spain

This is not a place, but a time. On Holy Week - 7 days before Easter - in all cities of Spain, costumed processions begin to move from church to church, displaying last days the life of Christ. This is especially impressive in Seville. Spanish pride is considered La Madruga - the early morning of Good Friday, when the two beloved Virgins of Seville, Triana and Macarena, appear.

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Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

This building was first used as a Byzantine church, then, at the time Ottoman Empire like a mosque and now a museum (although you can still hear the call to prayer from its minarets several times a day). It is really great. Inside, Byzantine mosaics shimmer, surahs of the Koran are written in elegant Arabic calligraphy on special black shields, the minbar and prayer niches, typical places of worship in Islam, have been preserved. Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest architectural achievements in world history. Her visit will not leave you indifferent, and at least once in your life it must be done.

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Matterhorn, Switzerland

We do not offer you to conquer this Alpine mountain peak. It is possible, but only for very experienced climbers. We had in mind that it is worth admiring its view, being in the resort of Zermatt in swiss alps. The Matterhorn has a special pyramidal shape, its height is 4478 meters. It was first climbed by climbers a little over 150 years ago. It was a group led by Edward Whymper, but due to an accident on the descent, four of this group never made it down the summit.

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Chenonceau castle, Loire Valley, France

Chenonceau will remind you why you should admire France. Standing on arches on the river Cher, this castle is so devilishly and harmoniously perfect that, looking at it, you involuntarily think about whether the Universe has its own aesthetic laws. Even children will not mind visiting this magnificent palace bought by Henri II for his mistress Diane de Poitiers. In addition to the palace, the nearby garden deserves attention.

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Atlantic road, Norway

This impressive Norwegian route passes through seven small bridges that link several beautiful rocky islands between Molde and Kristiansund in the western fjords. All the crossings are beautiful in their own right, especially the Storsesandet Bridge, but the surrounding scenery will leave you breathless: dramatic mountains, inky water and, if you're lucky, whales and dolphins at play.

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Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey

Sultanahmed Camii or the Blue Mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century. It has a dome with a diameter of 23.50 m and six minarets 64 m high. More than 20,000 pieces of the famous Iznik tiles were used in the interior, and 200 stained-glass windows are located in the openings of the upper levels. The mosque is operational, and non-Muslims are allowed only in a specially designated part of the building. But even this is enough to appreciate the scale and significance of this magnificent building.

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Northern lights, Scandinavia or Iceland

It's cold. It can be expensive. But there is no doubt that a trip to the northern regions of Europe in order to see the northern lights with your own eyes is worth it. If possible, choose a deserted, remote location - light noise makes the greens and blues less noticeable - check the forecasts on the Internet for the appearance of the northern lights and, fingers crossed, watch. Even if green streaks don't cut through the sky, take the opportunity to ride a dog sled, go sledding and snowshoeing, or simply savor the deep silence of the icy landscapes.

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Sainte Chapelle, Paris, France

Consecrated back in 1248, this Gothic chapel in the heart of Paris was damaged during the French Revolution, but it has some of the finest examples of stained glass. Even those who are not particularly fond of church architecture will not remain indifferent to the contemplation of the kaleidoscopic shards of purple, pink, emerald green and royal blue, the reflections of which dance along the walls of the Sainte-Chapelle chapel.

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Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Once it was a place for executions, then Soviet military parades were held here. Two cathedrals were demolished to make way for passing soldiers Vehicle. Then, after the collapse of the Union, it was rebuilt, and to this day there is Lenin's mausoleum. Red Square is the focal point of Moscow with the bizarre domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, GUM, and to the south, huge complex Kremlin.

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Ignore the people who are posing for pictures as if they are holding the building from falling. Instead, admire this amazing small free-standing bell tower of the nearby Pisa Cathedral. It leans at an angle of about 3.99 degrees - which is better than it was before the restoration - 5.5 degrees. The building was built of shiny white marble. Be prepared for a confusing ticketing system and a lot of pointless souvenirs - both are worth it to see this tower once with your own eyes.

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Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic

Since 1357, this stone bridge over the Vltava River has been perfectly framing the view of the Prague Castle and linking the Mala Strana and Stare Mesto districts. You need to pass these 520 meters under the supervision of 30 medieval sculptures at least once in your life.

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Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany

This neoclassical arch was built as a symbol of peace at the end of the 18th century, but it was badly damaged during the Second World War, and also had a gloomy location in close proximity to the Berlin Wall, which then divided the country. In the early 2000s, the gate underwent a major renovation and is now in perfect harmony with the more modern buildings of the German capital. They deserve your look at them!

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Renaissance art, hilltop towns, graceful lines of manicured pastures and cypresses swaying rhythmically in the wind… there are still reasons for Tuscany's popularity. The landscape of Val d'Orcia has saved thousands of editors who needed bright shots to illustrate European holidays: its hills and villages look completely idyllic.

In Siena, twice a year, the Palio races are held, which take place on central square Piazza del Campo has been almost uninterrupted since 1644. The capital of Tuscany, Florence, the most sophisticated city in Italy, is worth visiting at least once. There are so many attractions here that you will have enough impressions for a very long time.

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Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is located in the north-west of Slovenia. It and its surroundings are ideal for outdoor activities. Here you can go rafting, trekking, mountain climbing, rock climbing, go skiing or mountain biking. The lake itself is much larger than it appears in popular footage of the chapel in the center of the island.

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Colosseum, Italy

Be sure to include a visit to the Colosseum in your plans, especially now that visitors can pass through the same passages through which gladiators and wild animals entered the arena. You will see an ancient arena built for 50,000 people, as well as a restored wooden elevator, on which lions and other wild animals were raised to certain death. A wolf is placed there, but instead of a subsequent fight with a gladiator, now he is rewarded with goodies.

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Listed world heritage UNESCO, these are the ruins of an ancient city that was built over 2000 years ago, located in the western part of Turkey. This once housed one of the seven wonders ancient world- the temple of Artemis, but, like the city itself, it was destroyed by the Goths during the invasion. Then Ephesus was restored in the Byzantine era, but it became completely abandoned in the 15th century with the advent of Ottoman power to the lands that now belong to Turkey.

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Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

At least once in a lifetime it is worth visiting the famous building of Gustave Eiffel in Paris. Yes, there are always a lot of tourists there, you should always remember about pickpockets hunting here, but the view of one of the most beautiful cities in the world from above is incredible - better from the second level than from the third or last, where the glass screen blocks the panorama.

If you take the stairs instead of the elevator, you can get a close look at the huge web of steel bars that make up the tower. Stop to look down through the glass floor, which was opened in 2014 on the first level.

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The fortress and palace complex, whose name in Arabic means "red", is a reminder that Islamic dynasties once ruled these lands. Built and reconstructed between the 9th and 11th century in Granada. The Abenserrach Hall, the Royal Complex and the Palace of the Lions are considered some of the finest examples of Moorish architecture, and the interior decoration is so meticulously executed that the seams in the decoration can only be seen through a magnifying glass. The number of visitors is strictly limited, but the most popular halls and palaces are always crowded with tourists.

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La Serenissima receives tens of thousands of visitors every day, and you will never stay here alone. But even the most hardened haters of the hyped and top tourist spots at least one day of their lives should be spent in Venice, a city on the water with a winding network of canals.

Don't try to follow the map: just get lost among the narrow alleyways lined with masked souvenir shops, Italian leather goods stalls, and crowded houses of locals. So you can accidentally stumble upon the famous Piazza San Marco. Tourists on a modest budget can simply sit around all day dangling their legs by the canal and eating peaches and chocolate gelato.

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Crisp, white, almost arctic waves washing against black basalt beaches south coast Iceland - to believe it, you need to see it with your own eyes. The most famous of the black beaches of the country is Vik. Here, pitch-black, unstained volcanic sand goes into the distance, and three basalt columns (according to legend, these are trolls petrified in the rays of the rising sun) rise from the ocean not far from the coast. Best Views of this beach is opened from the Dyrholaey cliff.

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Pantheon, Rome, Italy

Just imagine that 2000 years ago the Romans were able to build buildings like the Pantheon - a domed masterpiece with a portico of 12 granite Corinthian columns, which is still one of the best preserved legacies of the Roman Empire. Looking at its amazing ceiling, the feeling of space is truly breathtaking.

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At this place in the south Spanish city There was a church in Cordoba until 784, then it was destroyed and rebuilt by Emir Abd al-Rahman I in great mosque. The prayer hall, supported by 400 horseshoe-shaped arches in cream and pink, is the main attraction. Additions were made by all the Umayyad rulers, and at the moment there are 856 columns made of jasper, onyx, marble, and granite.

The chapel and transept were built in 1523, after the Reconquista converted the mosque into a Christian place of worship. Currently, only Christians can pray in the building. Definitely, even non-religious visitors will admire the architectural intricacies of the various halls, decorative doors, as well as the courtyards and the dome of this structure.

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Versailles, France

The former residence of the French monarchs, a colossal white and gold palace and park complex surrounded by amazing fountains will make you understand why the peasants who were involved in the construction of Versailles rebelled in the sophisticated suburbs of Paris. The main attractions are mirror hall, a park designed by André Le Nôtre, and Marie Antoinette's Hameau de la Reine farm, where she privately met with friends and relaxed.

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Hermitage, St. Petersburg, Russia

Servants of this huge art gallery it is said that it will take 11 years to review each item in the collection. The main value are the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Picasso and Rembrandt. Before or after a visit to the Hermitage, take a walk along palace square located next to the museum complex.

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Pompeii and Herculaneum, Italy

The remains of these cities, destroyed in 79 AD. the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, which is nearby, will help you better imagine the fascinating and complex world that the Romans created. This the only place in a world where you will come face to face with the life of the Romans in the first century AD: from brothels and toilets to chic dining and bathing establishments (a modern spa, health club and gym all rolled into one). It is believed that Herculaneum is better preserved than Pompeii. Its relatively smaller size makes it more attractive to visit. But still one day you need to visit both ancient cities.

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Conclusion

This was an article of 30 amazing places in Europe that you must see before you die. Thank you for your attention!

The famous American magazine "Travel & Leisure" offered its list of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Statistical data were processed and observations were made, on the basis of which it was possible to identify the most popular European attractions in terms of their attendance by tourists. The rating includes the number of travelers who looked at the attraction in a year.

1. Trafalgar Square, London (15 million people)

Trafalgar Square is located in the historical center of the British capital, in Westminster. This is the most popular object among tourists, which means a lot to the British themselves. This square is suitable for any pastime: some relax here, others get acquainted with modern and classic artworks, others watch movie premieres and sporting events, others organize protests and rallies, and everyone celebrates Christmas together. Getting to Trafalgar Square, tourists will certainly look at at least one of the local attractions: the Admiralty Arch, the Church of St. Martin in the Fields, the National Gallery.

2. Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris (13.65 million people)

Notre Dame de Paris is not only the spiritual center of Paris, but also the “zero kilometer” of France, from which all distances are calculated. It was erected in the west of the island of Cite on the Seine River, in the place where in the 1st century there was an ancient Roman altar dedicated to Jupiter. The building of the temple is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, it is like a magnificent decoration carved from stone. The interior of the cathedral impresses with luxurious colored stained-glass windows, and the two-story chapel reveals the skill of masons of the Middle Ages.

3. Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Paris (10.5 million people)

The Catholic temple - the Sacré-Coeur Basilica is an amazing pearl of Paris. Its majestic light building made of white stone seems to soar above the city, as it was built on top of the Montmartre hill. In French, its name means "Holy Heart". A long wide staircase leads up the hillside to the church, along which crowds of tourists and pilgrims climb daily - some to bow to the shrines, others to admire the interior of the temple, listen to mass and enjoy the amazing view of Paris.


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4. Louvre, Paris (8.5 million people)

One of the richest museums in the world, the Louvre has collected treasures from ancient times to the middle of the 19th century, which are divided into 7 sections. The museum has more than 300 thousand exhibits, but visitors can see only 35 thousand of them. The exhibits are divided into 8 thematic sections: the antiquities of Egypt, the antiquities of the East, Greece, Rome and the Etruscans, the art of Islam, painting, sculpture, graphic art and art objects. The most visited part of the museum is the Denon wing, where Italian paintings are exhibited, including da Vinci's Gioconda. Although it is almost impossible to get around the entire Louvre in one day.

5. St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican (7 million people)

This basilica is the most precious landmark in all of Rome. It is assumed that the Apostle Peter was buried under this basilica. Inside this grandiose cathedral, other rather big European temples could fit. The dome has a height of 136 meters, which sets a limit above which no other building in Rome can be. The Basilica of St. Peter has 45 altars, 11 chapels, it is decorated with countless statues. The best masters of the Renaissance - Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini and Bramante - worked on its creation.

6. Colosseum, Rome (6.9 million people)

The majestic arena of the Colosseum, located in the center of Rome, near the Forum, has attracted countless visitors for two millennia. In Latin, its name means "huge". This is one of ancient structures that have survived to the present day. Various amusements for the Romans were held here: fights of gladiators and wild animals, persecution of the first Christians, etc.

7. Eiffel Tower, Paris (6.7 million people)


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It is well known that this building of the famous engineer Gustave Eiffel was temporary, but it has only been delayed to this day and has become a symbol of Paris and all of France. At first, many Parisians were skeptical about the steel structure, believing that it would disfigure the face of Paris, or even simply collapse. But time has greatly changed the assessment of this structure by the Parisians. The tower stands on the left bank of the Seine and is visible from everywhere in Paris. Some may decide to climb the 1800 steps to its observation deck but most use the lift. It offers gorgeous views of Paris and the Champs Elysees, which delight romantics.

8. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne (6 million people)

Cologne Cathedral is one of the most outstanding examples of High Gothic architecture in Europe. The height of its spiers is 157 meters, which makes it the second highest Catholic church in Germany and the third in the world. It was a real long-term construction, which was laid down in the 13th century, and completed only in the 19th century. It was seriously damaged again during the Second World War, after which its restoration continues again.

9. Sanctuary, Lourdes (6 million people)

Old French city Lourdes is located in the southwest of the country, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, on the Gave de Po River. But crowds of tourists come here. Here the phenomenon of the Virgin Mary happened, on the site of which a sanctuary was built - a complex of religious buildings surrounding the grotto of Masabiel. In 1858, it was here that the Virgin Mary herself appeared to the local 14-year-old girl Bernadette Soubirous. Crowds of pilgrims rush here, looking for miraculous healing from all sorts of ailments. According to the church, about 7 thousand such miraculous healings have already happened.

10. Sanctuary of Padre Pio, San Giovanni Rotondo (6 million people)

This sanctuary includes a temple, an ancient monastery and a new church of God's Grace. San Giovanni Rotondo became famous all over the world for the fact that the revered miracle-working monk Father Pio from Pietrelcina, who was canonized by the Catholic Church in 2002, carried out his activities in it. It was he who founded the sanctuary at the ancient monastery church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, and next to it, according to the project of the architect Renzo Piano, a more spacious temple was later built, opened in 2004. In 1540, a Capuchin monastery was built here, in which Father Pio spent his years, from 1916 until his death. In 1918, in this monastery, he received the stigmata, and miracles began to happen here, thanks to which Padre Pio was declared a saint. Pilgrims visit this monastery and the cell itself with trepidation, where Father Pio spent his life. There they seek to immerse themselves in a deep atmosphere of mysticism and spirituality. However, this place attracts not only believing pilgrims, but also inquisitive tourists.

11. Palace of Versailles, Versailles (5.9 million people)

Not far from Paris, in the suburbs of Versailles, there is a luxurious palace and park ensemble. Built for the "Sun King" Louis XIV, this palace became a wonderful embodiment of the Baroque style, which became the standard for subsequent copying by other European monarchs when building their residences. From the outside, the building does not seem too outstanding, but all the luxury and beauty of it is contained inside. The grandiose park is not inferior to the palace in terms of design and scope.

12. British Museum, London (5.8 million people)

The British Museum has over 7 million artifacts ancient history belonging to different cultures and different eras. Here you can also see masterpieces of art, ancient mummies and sarcophagi. The British Museum can surprise not only with its collection, but also with architecture - it houses the world's largest indoor courtyard. The best part is that admission is free.


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13. St. Mark's Basilica, Venice (5.5 million people)

This is the most important and largest Venetian temple. It also has a museum dedicated to St. Mark, but the entrance to it, unlike the temple, is paid.

14. Church of San Francesco, Assisi (5.5 million people)

The impressive basilica, which is the main temple of the Franciscan order, is one of the most significant Catholic churches. When it was erected by brother Ilia Bombardone, the Italian Gothic style was chosen, it became a universally recognized architectural masterpiece. The temple has two levels: the part rising above the hill is only the upper church, while on the mountainside and partially closed by ordinary monastic buildings there is also a lower church, which has one nave (as above), as well as many more crypts and chapels . But this is not the very bottom of the building - under the lower church there is another crypt in which the founder of the order, Francis of Assisi, rests. Near the southern facade of the church, a bell tower was added, having a height of 60 meters.

15. Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona (2.26 million people)

Also known as the Sagrada Familia, this basilica is a strikingly beautiful and impressive architectural masterpiece, the main, albeit unfinished, creation of the great Antonio Gaudí. Its huge towers are visible in Barcelona from afar, as they are almost unparalleled in height. Gaudi until the end of his life was engaged in the construction of this temple and its fantastic interiors, and the following architects continued his work according to their projects, which is why the facades of the temple are so different from each other. The terms of construction of the temple are typical for the Middle Ages, they have been going on for more than 100 years, but only donations are spent on it. It is expected that around 2026 the long-term construction will be completed.

Covadonga, Mdina, Pag, Kashubia or the Salzkammergut - have you ever heard of these places?
Surely not. Meanwhile, these places are impressive and are located ... in Europe traveled up and down!

Travelers all over the world love Europe. The Old World has something to offer even the most fastidious tourist, for example, in terms of architecture - such a number of medieval streets have not been preserved anywhere else. But Europe is especially good in terms of nature, it has everything - from snowy mountain peaks and smoking volcanoes to blue lakes and deep caves. Many of them have been passed over by inquisitive tourists, but those that few people know about have survived. They are not very popular, but, believe me, they are really worth a visit, moreover, for very little money.


The TOP of little-known attractions in Europe presented below is also interesting because these places are also suitable for budget holiday. It is compiled on the basis of a number of criteria, including the beauty of the area, popularity among tourists, the ability to pay without cash, the cost of living and the level of infrastructure development.

ASTURIA AND THE MONASTERY OF COVADONG, SPAIN
Asturias (Principality of Asturias) is a small mountainous autonomous region in northern Spain, located off the coast of the Bay of Biscay. Empty and amazing beautiful beaches with crystal clean water, nearly a third of the region nature reserves, most of which are under the protection of UNESCO.

sights
Among the main ones: the Peaks of Europe National Park, the lakes of Covadonga and Enol, the monastery of St. Vincent. The most visited place, however, is the sacred altar of the Virgin of Covadonga and the chapel with the image of the Virgin and the remains of Pelayo, the first king of Asturias. After his death, Pelayo was buried in a cave, and there is also a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Covadonga. The holy cave quickly became a place of pilgrimage.

Accommodation around € 25 ( approximate price double room in a 3-star hotel or guest house per night for one person), dinner approx. € 18 (average price per dish in a restaurant).

How to get there
There are 16 different flights to Asturias Airport: the easiest ones to fly here are from London, Barcelona and Madrid.

MDINA AND ZEBBUJ, MALTA
The city of Mdina is one of the most mysterious cities Malta. The Maltese themselves call this place the "Silent City" - its population is now only about 300 people.

sights
Tourists usually come here to look at the ancient main and Greek gates of Mdina, Cathedral named after St. Paul, built in the 17th century, as well as the Mdina dungeon, which is now a museum of torture instruments.

Accommodation in a guest house can be found for approx. €25

How to get there
By bus from Valletta Central Bus Station.
As for Zebbug, one of the oldest cities in Malta, the most interesting attraction here is the Church of St. Peter in Chains. The easiest way for tourists to get to the city is by car or bus - the city is only 6 km from international airport Malta.

SALZKAMMERGUT, AUSTRIA
Historical region in Austria east of Salzburg. A truly picturesque lake district.

sights
In addition to numerous crystal clear lakes (more than 70), tourists visit this place for the sake of the tiny town of Hallstatt. The city, together with the Hallstättersee lake, the salt mines and the immediate surroundings, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The famous natural caves of the Dachstein and cozy valley Eherntal with her "glacier garden".

Accommodation approx. €35, dinner approx. €25.

How to get there
Short journeys around the Salzkammergut are best made from Salzburg or Linz.

AZORES, PORTUGAL
Archipelago in Atlantic Ocean, consisting of 9 islands of volcanic origin. Here is located active volcano Pico (2351 m).

sights
San Miguel is the largest and most visited island in the archipelago. From the capital of the island, Ponta Delgada, it is convenient to make day trips to lakes, craters, hot springs and rocky shores. To the west is the largest volcanic crater in the Azores, Caldeira das Sete Cidades. Also on the island of San Miguel there are hot springs, and, accordingly, thermal clinics are equipped. Sulfur caves can be seen on the island of Theseira.

How to get there
International airports in the Azores are located on three islands: Sao Miguel, Santa Maria and Faial. The most convenient option for a flight from Russia is a flight with a transfer at the Lisbon airport at the Joao Paulo II airport in Sao Miguel.

PERAST, MONTENEGRO
An ancient tiny town on the shores of the Bay of Kotor on the Adriatic Sea. About 300 people live in Perast on a permanent basis. You can see this place in just a few hours.

sights
Directly from the embankment of the city offers a picturesque view of the Bay of Kotor, the Church of the Mother of God on the Rock and the island of St. George. Tourists should also definitely climb the tower of St. Nicholas.

Accommodation approx. €15, dinner approx. €15

How to get there
For travelers, it will be most beneficial to visit Perast and Kotor in one day by purchasing a group tour of the Bay of Kotor for €25 per person. Or get here on your own by car or bus from Budva.

LEDNICE-VALTICE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Landscape complex in the Czech Republic (Moravia), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is located 50 kilometers southeast of Brno, in a triangle where the borders of three neighboring countries- Austria, Czech Republic and Slovakia.

sights
People come here for the sake of the grandiose medieval Gothic castle Lednice, which is part of the entire castle and park complex. The castles of Valtice and Lednice, in turn, are interconnected by luxurious seven-kilometer alleys, called the "Gardens of Europe". Wine tourism is also very developed in this region of the Czech Republic - there is a chance to bring real Moravian wine from here, little known in Russia, but very tasty and appreciated by gourmets.

Accommodation approx. €20, dinner approx. €10.

How to get there
The Lednice-Valtice complex can be easily explored during a day trip from Prague, Brno, Bratislava or Vienna.

PAG ISLAND, CROATIA
A picturesque island stretching for 60 km along the Adriatic coast. It is famous for its delicious Page cheese and exquisite lace, but not only for them.

sights
The city of Pag, with episcopal and princely palaces as examples of medieval urban planning, and the ancient small town of Novalja, now called the "Croatian Ibiza" because of the beaches and noisy discos. Is here and unique places of unexplored origin, for example, the Pagsky triangle - a large-scale area of ​​scorched earth, along which there is a very clear and orderly marking.

Accommodation approx. €30, dinner approx. €13.

How to get there
The easiest way to get here is by ferry Prizna-Zhiglen or by car. In the southwest of the island there is a road bridge connecting the island with the mainland.

SAAREMAA ISLAND, ESTONIA
fourth largest island Baltic Sea after the islands of Zealand, Funen and Gotland. The former name is Kuressaare, which means "land of storks".

sights
The Kaali meteorite crater, formed about 3500 years ago, the ruins of Maasi Castle, built by the master of the Livonian Order in 1345, windmills (the island's visiting card!) And a national park with 30 species of mammals (including gray seals) and more than 200 species of birds. The island can be called a real lake district - there are more than 80 lakes, most of which are located in the northwestern part of the island.

Accommodation approx. €23, dinner approx. €18.

How to get there
The easiest way to get to Saaremaa from Tallinn is by bus. The ferry crossing is included in the ticket price.

VOLOS AND PELION, GREECE
Volos is a small quiet town by the sea, which turns into a popular ski resort in winter.

sights
One of the most interesting places in Volos it is Mount Pelion (Pelion) with traditional villages, serpentines of roads and picturesque nature. On Mount Pelion, according to legend, centaurs lived. The wisest of them - Chiron, was the tutor of Achilles and the famous Asclepius, who was engaged in healing and made the snake a symbol of medicine.
There is also a theater with a symphony orchestra, an embankment, a university and Archaeological Museum Volosa, one of the top ten in Greece.

Accommodation approx. €25, dinner approx. €15.

How to get there
The most convenient way to get here is by bus or train from Athens or Thessaloniki.

VELIKA PLANINA, SLOVENIA
Extremely popular place with picturesque alpine grasses and flowers for weekend hikes, as well as a world famous ski resort.

sights
Magnificent view from the mountains to the valley, the town of Kamnik and its surroundings. All lovers of active and family recreation are given the opportunity for hiking and cycling tourism, individual and group tours into the mountains. The most popular attraction here is the shepherd's settlement, one of the few surviving settlements of this size and color in Europe.

Accommodation approx. €40, dinner approx. €15.

How to get there
The easiest way is by plane or train - Velika Planina is located 44 kilometers from Ljubljana.

KASHUBIA, POLAND
West Slavic ethnic territory of the Kashubians in northwestern Poland. There are no major tourist centers and there are no crowded events. But, nevertheless, among travelers with small children, outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, this place can be considered one of the most popular.

sights
It is worth going here for picturesque lakes and rivers, folded hills, valleys and gorges. Due to its unusual geological structure, part of the region is called Kashubian Switzerland. In summer you can swim in the lakes, admire the flocks of cranes, and in winter you can ride on skiing. the best tourist centers The region for trips on the Kaszub lakes are the city of Kartuzy and the resort of Chmielno.

Accommodation approx. €20, dinner approx. €12.

How to get there
The fastest way to get here is by bus or car from Gdansk.

NAARDEN, THE NETHERLANDS
A star-shaped walled city, one of the few surviving Dutch bastions and the only fortress in Europe with unique double walls and moats.

sights
In fact, the whole city can be considered the main attraction. But also tourists here should look at the bell tower of the Great Church, the "Spanish house" and the museum of the fortress, where it will be interesting to learn about the past of the city and defensive structures.

Accommodation approx. €60, dinner approx. €30.

How to get there
There are several options: by train from Amsterdam in 20 minutes, by bike from Vespa or by bus 101 from the Amstel station in Amsterdam.

CAPE KOLKA, LATVIA
Kolka (Kolkasrags) is the most pronounced cape on the coast of Latvia, separating the open Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga.

Sights.
During the period of bird migration, tens of thousands of birds can be seen here. Tourists here should visit the village of Kolka, and in it the Liv Cultural Center and churches of three different confessions: the Kolka Lutheran Church, the Orthodox Church of the Nativity of Christ and the Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Starfish. Also on the cape begins a journey through national park Slitere.

Accommodation approx. €20, dinner approx. €14.

How to get there
A bus runs from Riga to Kolka four or five times a day. The cost of a one-way ticket is about €7.

DANUBE DELTA, ROMANIA
One of the largest and best preserved river deltas in Europe.

sights
The Danube Delta includes numerous ecosystems, which are home to a significant number of flora and fauna (93 species of fish, 350 species of birds). In 1998, the Danube Biosphere Reserve, which is under the patronage of UNESCO, was formed on the territory of Romania and neighboring Ukraine in the delta region. It is for him that many tourists come here. Also here it is worth visiting the city of Tulcea, and in it the fortress of Agesus, the historical and archaeological museum, the museum natural history"Danube Delta" and Museum of Folk Art and Ethnography.

Accommodation approx. €15, dinner approx. €10.

How to get there
The easiest way to get to Tulcea is by plane from Constanta Airport. Or take a direct train from Bucharest to Tulcea Station.

BALATON HIGHLIGHTS, HUNGARY
Balaton itself can be considered the most important resort center in Hungary. People come here for beach and outdoor activities, as well as for treatment and rehabilitation: there are many thermal and mineral healing springs around the lake.

sights
The key place for tourists here is national park Balaton Upland at the northern edge of Lake Balaton. In this area with a volcanic landscape, people move only along hiking trails. Famous places The park is the Tihany peninsula, the basins of the Kali and Tapoltsa rivers, the Tapoltsa caves, the mountains of South Bakony and Kish Balaton.

Accommodation approx. €20, dinner approx. €13.

How to get there
It is convenient to get to Lake Balaton from Budapest along the modern 115-kilometer motorway (the journey will take about an hour and a half) or by rail.

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