The 1,700-year-old megastructure history almost forgot
CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter, Unlocking the World, offers insights into global destinations, aviation, food, and accommodations. This week’s highlights include a cyclist retracing his father’s global journey, a luxury yacht transformed into a mold-drenched ruin, and an ancient Roman city spanning an area ten times that of Disneyland. Among these tales, one site stands out for its grandeur and obscurity: Jetavanaramaya, a monumental fourth-century Sri Lankan structure once among the world’s largest. This sprawling brick-built marvel emerged from religious competition and endured earthquakes, decay, and conflict over centuries. Yet, despite its sheer scale, it remains largely unknown beyond its home country, having been overshadowed by history for long stretches.
A Forgotten Wonder in Sri Lanka
Jetavanaramaya, a colossal monument in Sri Lanka, was constructed as a testament to the island’s ancient religious tensions. Its immense size—measured in cubic volume—has earned it a place among the greatest engineering feats of its era. However, its reputation faded over time, with much of its legacy lost until recent rediscoveries. For those curious about its rediscovery, more details are available in the article.
The Roman City That Endures
In Turkey, another architectural marvel has withstood the test of time. Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkably well-preserved example of a Roman port city. Covering 1,600 acres, it is ten times the size of Disneyland and continues to attract 2.5 million visitors annually. Once a thriving hub frequented by Alexander the Great and Cleopatra, it remains a popular destination. A comprehensive guide to its historical wonders is featured in the piece.
An Unfinished Masterpiece
Spain’s Sagrada Familia, designed by Antoni Gaudi, is nearing completion after 144 years of construction. The iconic basilica in Barcelona will soon see the unveiling of its central tower, with Pope Leo set to preside over the ceremony next summer. The ongoing process of its creation is documented in a video segment.
Unexpected Connections
For CNN subscribers, two heartwarming stories highlight unexpected bonds. A Canadian couple acquired a luxury yacht, only to discover it was covered in mold. Despite its condition, they felt a strong connection to it, eventually transforming it into their home. Meanwhile, in Italy, Amelia Butler bought a home in Latronico without seeing it, guided solely by a window view. Her decision proved rewarding, though the full story reveals more than she anticipated.
A Cycling Legacy
In Australia, Jamie Hargreaves embarked on a journey echoing his father’s 1980s global bike trip. He rode the same brand of bicycle, visited familiar locations, and captured photos matching his dad’s original shots. “It’s a real sort of connection to Dad,” Jamie shared with CNN. “The only thing dividing us was time.”
Love Across Borders
Three love stories, sparked by a chance encounter, unfolded after a woman in Alabama received a text: “Come outside, we’re surrounded by hot British men.” This event altered the course of lives, leading to transatlantic relationships and three weddings. The story of how these connections began is detailed in the article.
Japan has also seen a surge in ski and snowboard accidents involving foreign tourists this season. Rescuers report being overwhelmed, with no assurance that every incident will be addressed. CNN’s Hanako Montgomery provides an update on the situation. Meanwhile, in the UK, British pubs can seem daunting to outsiders, but there are strategies to ease the transition. The week’s events also included a K-pop star, a cliffside photo that triggered the closure of an Australian attraction, and a sudden loss of Italian citizenship hopes for some.
