When exploring the world, you could be forgiven for simply admiring the beauty of the places you find yourself. But if you choose to look through the lens of history, you can uncover stories waiting to be told. By learning how to document heritage and architecture on your travels, you can take a deeper look into the history of where you are, as well as your own personal story.
1. Viewing Heritage through the Lens of History
Understanding our heritage can be a complex task. To gain a comprehensive knowledge of what entails a community’s or nation’s heritage, we often need to look towards history for help. A person’s past shapes the present, so gaining an understanding of a society’s roots is paramount to understanding its cultural heritage.
When , we can observe a rich variety of artefacts, symbols, or monuments that represent a culture’s values, beliefs, and traditions. These often reveal aspects of a past lifestyle that are still relevant today such as the celebration of certain holidays that trace their origins back centuries. For instance, many communities celebrate the Solstice as a celebration of the seasons which dates back thousands of years.
In addition, we can learn more about the nuances and complexities of our heritage by examining its component parts separately. We can explore tangible objects like works of art, writings, and language that are measured against societal change over the years. This type of study can then be analyzed for factors such as how it was received at the time, or why certain adaptations and changes were made.
Studying and analyzing our past puts us in a better position to understand our present. By , we are able to appreciate the richness of a culture’s history, its intricate details, and its longevity.
2. Exploring the Architecture of Bygone Eras
Walking around the awe-inspiring structures of bygone eras is likely to bring a sense of stasis despite the world continually changing. Exploring these architectural masterpieces can transport us to a different world, a feeling of standing in the same spot that an ancient society stood hundreds of years before. Here’s an exploration of what we can learn from these wonders of years gone by:
- Age-old Wisdom and Values: Through their timeless designs, monuments of bygone eras bring to light the age-old wisdom and values held by our forebears. Time-worn wisdom held within these structures can offer us a unique insight into the lives and values of people from centuries past and provide much to think about.
- Evidence of Evolution: The building techniques used in the construction of these age-old structures can give us an insight into the evolution of architecture and of society as a whole. This may include the materials used, the styles, the building methods, and even the decorations used to adorn the structures. As humans have evolved and technology has evolved, so too has the way we construct our buildings.
- A Connection to the Past: Exploring these structures provides us with a greater understanding of our past, a tangible connection to the great civilizations that have come and gone. They offer us a glimpse into the everyday lives of those who lived in the ancient world and the cultures that these civilizations gave rise to.
From well-known medieval ruins to little-known towering columns, is sure to transport you back in time and provide a window to the fascinating histories of times past.
3. Capturing the Essence of Cultural Heritage
The world’s cultural heritage is a source of immense beauty and amazement. Capturing the essence of this heritage is no easy task, but it is still essential for its preservation.
- Video Documentation: Documentation of cultural heritage sites through film and video capture can provide excellent records of a particular time and place. They also allow people to experience the heritage sites from afar, including those who otherwise would not have the opportunity to see them.
- Photography: Photographs are able to provide a unique window into the moment just before the snapshot is taken. Therefore, taking plenty of photographs of cultural heritage sites allow us to document a moment thoroughly, both in still frame and in sequential shots.
- Oral History: Not all cultural heritage sites can be adequately documented through video or photography. Oral history recording helps to capture the nuances and details that can easily be missed in visual media. Interviews of local residents can provide stories that contextualize the scene and make it understandable to the rest of the world.
- Interactive Exhibitions: Interactive exhibitions may use any of the methods described above, but arranged in a way that immerses the visitor in the experience and allows them to truly feel the culture of a location. Such exhibits can be located at institutions around the world, or they can exist as digital projects accessible from anywhere.
It is not always easy to capture the essence of cultural heritage sites, but it is vital that we do so. With the right techniques, our understanding of the sites can be greatly enhanced.
4. Documenting the Memory of Past Civilizations
Studying the memories of past civilizations is an important part of history. After all, knowledge from past cultures helps us better understand our present, and navigate our future. Fortunately, there are ways to document the memory of past civilizations, even when no written source exists.
- Field Archeology: Field archeology gives us an incredible window into the memory of past civilizations. By studying the architecture and artifacts left behind, archeologists can understand social structures, technology, and other aspects of this civilization.
- Oral Traditions: Even if written records are gone, the memory of past civilizations can still be preserved. Through stories, poems, songs and other oral traditions, meaning and knowledge can be handed down from generation to generation.
- Clothing: The clothing that we choose to wear can tell us about our identity. In a similar way, analyzing the clothing styles of past civilizations can offer insight into how people saw themselves and their society.
No matter how far we go, the memory of great civilizations has survived. Through studying field archeology, oral traditions, and clothing, we can gain a better appreciation for the remarkable people and cultures that have come before us.
5. Savoring Ancient Wonders on Your Travels
Discover Antiquity in a New Way
Part of what makes travel such a unique and captivating experience is discovering the ruins of a bygone civilization. Touring the ancient cities and monuments of the past can be a truly amazing and moving experience, and can give you a glimpse into a distant world. From the Roman Colosseum in Italy to the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, there is much to explore.
Find Ways to Engage with History
To really appreciate the heritage of a site, consider attending a guided tour or lecture. Modern versions of the ruin or temple may use multimedia presentations, talks, and interactive activities to supplement the experience and allow you to better appreciate the intricate details and stories hidden within the structure and surrounding landscape.
Capture Unforgettable Moments
Whether it’s a selfie or group photo, try to capture as many memories of your travels as you can. Take in snapshots of walls, arches, and statues, and don’t forget to bring along a camera. There are many ways to save and share your trip and the beautiful historical landmarks you visit – from postcards to social media.
Tips for Exploring Ancient Wonders
- Do your research and learn as much as you can about the places you’re visiting.
- Be respectful of the culture and preservation of the site and its artifacts.
- Strike up a conversation with locals or join a guided tour for enhanced awareness of the setting and stories.
- Enjoy a slower pace and give yourself plenty of time to wander and take in the atmosphere.
Allow yourself to be immersed in the richness of history when you visit a new destination. Have an unforgettable experience by savoring every part of the ancient wonder before you.
6. Immersing Yourself in Historical Heritage
Exploring the past is a great way to gain a greater sense of our place in the world. By immersing yourself in the historical heritage of a place, you can broaden your horizons and become more aware of the history and culture of the region.
These are some of the ways you can enrich your knowledge of historical heritage:
- Visit National Historic Sites. From ancient monuments to fortresses to parks, there are many unique sites all over the world that can give you a glimpse into the past.
- Study the local language. Learning more about the language of the people of the region can help you understand their culture and heritage.
- Take part in historical festivals. Many places around the world host festivals to commemorate their history. It is a great way to gain an understanding of the cultural events of the region.
Traveling to learn can also be a rewarding experience. Exploring the world with a focus on understanding and appreciating the history of the location you are visiting can provide you with an educational adventure. So, imagine yourself in a new place and explore the past to develop a deeper understanding of the region.
On your travels, open your eyes to the sights and stories that each place holds. Through your lens, capture these important moments in time and document the heritage and architecture that each experience has to offer. You never know what you may find, or what hidden meanings may yet be uncovered. As you look to the past, your lens may just help paint a brighter future.
