Archaeology teaches us about past civilization. They say that you've got to know where you've come from to know where you are headed. That is why many a traveller will include an archaeology site in his travel itinerary. Below are some of the inspiring archaeological sites that you would be remiss if you didn't see.

1. Pompeii

This was an ancient Roman city near the modern day Naples in the Italian region of Campania. At around 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted and in its wake, visited the largest natural punishment on the Roman Empire. The city, together with its residents, would be buried by hot lava. Now if you want to learn a little about the Romans, this would be a great place to start.

2. Caral in Supe Valley, Peru

As the Egyptians were busy building the Pyramids of Giza at around 5,000 years ago, so was the North Chico Civilization of Peru. The Pyramids were discovered in 1905 and paints a picture of an organized society with a knack for grand architecture. The civilization impacted on all the subsequent civilizations along the Pacific Coast.

3. Coba in Mexico

Some 2100 years ago, the Mayan Civilization reached its apogee. Between 100 BC and 100AD, a wooden town was built at Coba. The town would later act as major trading center for the Mayans along the Yucatan Peninsula. Only much later would Chichén Itzá rise to overtake Coba. A trip here will be inspiring to say the least.

4. Lalibela in Ethiopia

The Lalibela route is one filled with mystery. It is said that the Queen of Sheba used this route in search of the wise Jewish King, Solomon. It is said that the king sired her son Menelik, who became the first Emperor of Ethiopia. Along the route, you will find churches carved out of rocks on mountains. The Ethiopian Christian Orthodox considers Lalibela its most holy site.

5. Kilwa Kisiwani in Tanzania

At around 900 AD, Ali bin Al-Hasan founded what would become one of the greatest cities in the world at the time. For over 400 years, the city was an important link between East African inland and the civilization in Middle East and the ones in the Pacific Rim. The famous Morocco traveller Ibn Battuta writes of being amazed by the city's beautiful houses. Although the city fell to the Portuguese in the 15th century, it still is one of the most beautiful places on earth.

There you have it. Make a visit and you will never regret your visit to these far off lands.