Watch Globe Trekker: Great Historic Sites
- NR
- 2015
- 53 min
As a travel documentary series, Globe Trekker takes its viewers on a journey around the world, exploring different cultures and historical sites. Great Historic Sites is one of the many specials in the series, and it focuses on some of the most impactful historical landmarks across the globe. The show starts with host Megan McCormick traveling to the most iconic landmark in the world - the Great Wall of China. She introduces the viewers to the history and significance of the wall, as it was built by the ancient Chinese dynasties to protect their civilization from external invasions. Despite the numerous dynasties that came forth, the construction of the wall continued for over 2,000 years until it stretched to over 13,000 miles.
Moving towards the temples of Abu Simbel in Egypt, McCormick takes the viewers on a journey through the era of Pharaoh Ramses II who ordered the construction of the temples. The great temples on the banks of the Nile River took 20 years to build and were initially made for the pharaoh, his wife, and the gods and goddesses they worshipped. The temples were carved into the rock and were meant to showcase Ramses II's power and wealth.
From Africa, the show takes us to the ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, accessible only through a train journey from the nearest city. McCormick elaborates on the history and purpose of the city – built by the Incas over 500 years ago, the city was created as a retreat for the emperor and his officials. McCormick describes how the emperor only visited once a year with a selected number of people, so it remained hidden as they left.
The show also highlights the European side of history and travels to the ancient Greek city of Olympia. The city was home to the athletes that competed during the first Olympic games in ancient Greece, founded in honor of Zeus, the king of the gods. McCormick educates the audience on the ancient events and competitions, such as sprinting and discus throw.
Next up is the magnificent ancient city of Petra in Jordan, commonly known for being featured in the film 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade'. McCormick immerses the audience in the history and culture of Petra, carved by the Nabataeans in the 6th century BCE. Petra used to be the crossroads of trading routes, which made it a wealthy place. The city has many restaurants that sell authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.
Finally, the show finishes with a journey to Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap Cambodia. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and was originally built as a Hindu temple. McCormick takes the audience on a journey through the history of the Khmer Empire, explaining that the temple was built as a symbol of its strength and wealth.
Overall, Globe Trekker: Great Historic Sites is a breathtaking journey through some of the most impressive historical landmarks of the world. The host, Megan McCormick, presents the history and significance of each site in a concise and easy-to-understand way, making it an educational and transformative travel experience for the viewers. The show is an excellent mix of history, culture, and adventure that gives an immersive experience to the audiences.