Kaaba and Masjid-al-Haram

The largest mosque in the world was built in 638 AD to surround the Kaaba – the holiest site of Islam. Contains several other sacred places, including Zamzam Well which is widely believed to be a miraculous natural spring but in reality, is handmade well.

Quadirikiri Cave

150 m long cave that opens in a limestone wall. Contain Amerindian petroglyphs, stalactites and stalagmites. Two large cave chambers are lighted through holes in the ceiling. Site of legends.

Popa Taung Kalat

This beautiful monastic complex sits on top of an extinct volcanic plug, rising 170 – 180 meters over the surrounding area.

Blue Grotto in Capri

Inundated cave with a beautiful effect of sunlight in water.

Østerlars Church, Bornholm

Largest of the four round churches in Bornholm. Constructed in Romanesque style around 1160, served also as a fortification. The enormous central column is adorned with medieval frescoes. Round churches of Bornholm are subject to modern legends about Templars and Holy Grail.

Aramu Muru – the mystical portal

Giant stone carving in live rock, most likely unfinished. Represents a giant gate that leads into the cliff. Local stories about portal leading to the world of spirits.

Pozo de las Animas – Well of Souls

Two closely located sinkholes with small lakes at the bottom. The largest is 101 m deep, including the 21 m deep, blue lake. Wind creates eerie, whistling sounds in the sinkholes.

Marae Arahurahu

One of the first marae to be restored in 1954. Contains a stone statue.

Marae Fare Opu

Large royal marae, unfortunately, half buried under a road. Some stones contain petroglyphs – depictions of turtles. Made in the 15th – 16th century. Ahu is 25 m long.

Me’ae Iipona

A ceremonial site with the largest prehistoric stone statues (tiki) in French Polynesia, up to 2.6 m high. Restored in 1991.