There’s no better way to learn history than stepping outside the classroom and diving right in. When you’re walking on the same landscape as gladiators, exploring underground tunnels once used by guerilla troops or running in the birthplace of the Olympic Games, it’s virtually impossible not to feel passionate about bygone days.
A History Tour offers a learning experience like no other – and at World Challenge, we have a variety to choose from. We’ve cherry-picked highlights from four of our top History Tours that are sure to ignite a passion for student curriculum through experiential learning. Read on to discover more…
- The rise, fall and legacy of Ancient Rome
Are you ready to learn about Italy’s rich history through the lens of Ancient Rome? The Italian capital is a treasure trove of ancient sites showcasing not only Roman engineering and architecture but also its rich culture. Discover how this vast empire ruled – Roman law forms basic law codes still used in most of continental Europe.
The Colosseum is where the imagination is truly sparked, offering a snapshot into daily life of yesteryear. Exploring the levels of the ancient amphitheatre, you can imagine the gladiators and wild animals fighting for their lives. It’s moments like these where you can pause, soak it all in and reflect on the influence these places have had on civilisation today.
Venice is another destination with feats of Roman engineering at every turn. This is one of the world’s most beautiful cities – and one of its most storied. Where else can you cruise 170 canals on the type of boat that’s been in use since the 11th century? Add to that the fact that these gondolas were once the reserve of the nobility, becoming status symbols for powerful families, and your ride becomes even more exciting.
- Cambodia’s war-torn past
Cambodia’s recent history is dark and disturbing – but it’s an important story. Around two million people (nearly a quarter of the population) were killed between 1975 and 1979 during the Khmer Rouge’s attempt at a great leap forward. In Phnom Penh, you can learn more about their destructive reign at the Documentation Centre of Cambodia.
You’ll need to take a deep breath before entering the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former school used as a torture centre, where more than 20,000 people were held. At the Choeung Ek Memorial, the stupa contains thousands of human skulls. This is the site of the infamous Killing Fields – the execution ground for genocide victims. Almost half a century on, Cambodia’s tragic past teaches us difficult lessons about ourselves and the world in which we live.
- Democracy, art and mythology in Ancient Greece
Athens is an excellent place to start a deep dive into Greece’s ancient world. The Greek capital has witnessed changing political systems, from ancient democracy to the rise and fall of city-states. Witness first-hand the legacy of Ancient Greece on modern society, and hear about the contributions of key figures like Alexander the Great.
Athens is also a brilliant base to explore Greek art and architecture. The beauty and significance of historic temples and sculptures can be clearly felt at the Acropolis of Athens. This site may date back to the 5th century BC, but there’s nothing stale about the stories of the ancient civilisations that changed the course of humankind. Guided tours delve into the stunning ruins, including the remains of the famous Parthenon – the temple built for the goddess Athena. It’s easy to see why the word ‘Acropolis’ means ‘highest point of the city’ when you see the incredible views over Athens.
Greek mythology still influences Western culture today, particularly in arts and literature. Among the 12 main Greek gods is Apollo, whose temple can be explored in Delphi. You’ll see how temples played a pivotal role in Greek society and get an insight into daily life. When paired with sport, history comes to life even more – as you’ll discover while running the track at the site that held the very first Olympic Games.
- Conflict and culture in Vietnam
Vietnam is an amazing country with a colourful history. It has seen ten major conflicts, leading to years of turmoil, the loss of over three million Vietnamese lives and severe political and economic unrest. In Hanoi, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Hoa Lo prison bring to life the colonial, civil and cold wars. At the other end of the country, in the southern city of Ho Chi Minh City, you can experience what life was like for thousands of communist guerrilla troops during the Vietnam War when you descend into the Cu Chi tunnels. This immense underground network was used as living quarters, supply routes and hospitals.
The narrow middle section of Vietnam is also dense with historical and cultural sights. Located on the banks of a river, picturesque Hue (pronounced “hway”) is every history buff’s dream. The ancient UNESCO-listed Citadel is a stunning complex and the site of the former Imperial City. It holds great cultural and political significance. The design was inspired by Beijing’s iconic Forbidden City. Look out for traces of the vanished Vietnamese feudal empire, even though many of its fine buildings were destroyed during the American War.
Unlock the past with World Challenge’s immersive History Tours! Step into ancient civilisations, explore legendary sites, and experience history firsthand.
Join us and ignite your passion for learning today!
Written by Ellie Ross
