The 1,700-year-old megastructure history almost forgot
The 1,700-year-old megastructure history almost forgot
CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter, Unlocking the World, offers updates on global destinations, aviation, culinary trends, and accommodations. This week’s highlights include a man retracing his father’s global cycling journey, a luxury yacht transformed into a mold-ridden ruin, and an ancient Roman city spanning ten times the area of Disneyland.
A Forgotten Colossus
In Sri Lanka, the Jetavanaramaya stands as a testament to a bygone era. This monumental fourth-century structure, one of the world’s largest brick edifices, was shaped by religious conflicts and endured centuries of seismic shocks, abandonment, and war. Despite its grandeur, it remains obscure beyond its home country, often overlooked in historical records.
“We knew we were ‘the right people’ to save it,” said Janis and Blaine Carmena, who acquired a mold-covered yacht and turned it into their home.
A Roman Marvel Preserved
Across the Mediterranean, Ephesus in Turkey offers a glimpse into a well-maintained Roman port city. The site, a UNESCO Heritage location, covers 1,600 acres and houses historical wonders that draw 2.5 million tourists annually. Once a thriving hub for figures like Alexander the Great and Cleopatra, it continues to captivate travelers today.
An Unfinished Masterpiece
In Barcelona, Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia is nearing its final phase. Construction began in 1882 and will conclude 144 years later, with Pope Leo set to open the central tower next summer. This European architectural marvel, still in progress, has inspired generations with its unique design.
Unexpected Purchases
American woman Amelia Butler discovered a hidden gem in Italy’s Basilicata region. She bought a one-bedroom apartment sight unseen, driven by the valley view from a window. “I knew it was mine,” she shared with CNN, though the reality of the home differed from her expectations.
Meanwhile, a Canadian couple embraced a crumbling yacht as their new abode. Despite its mold-stained state, they felt a connection to the vessel, transforming it into a personal sanctuary over six years.
Stories of Connection
Travel isn’t just about places—it’s about people. A man in Australia followed his father’s 1980s round-the-world cycling route, replicating the journey with the same bike and recreating photos. “Time was the only thing separating us,” he told CNN.
Meanwhile, a chance encounter in Alabama sparked three transatlantic love stories. A text reading, “Come outside, we’re surrounded by hot British men,” led to unexpected relationships and three weddings.
Challenges and Cultural Hurdles
Japan’s ski resorts are grappling with a surge in accidents involving foreign visitors. Rescuers are stretched thin, unable to ensure every person is saved. In another tale, British pubs, while traditional, can seem daunting to outsiders. But there are ways to adapt and blend in.
Week in Review
A presidential speech, a tragic milestone, and a cartel leader dominated headlines. Meanwhile, a viral image of a K-pop star at a cliff edge prompted the closure of a popular Australian attraction. Some dreams, like Italian citizenship, faded unexpectedly—but hope remains.
