The 1,700-year-old megastructure history almost forgot
The Forgotten Colossus: A Journey Through Time
Unlocking the World, CNN Travel’s weekly newsletter, delivers updates on global destinations, aviation, and cultural experiences. This week’s highlights include a man retracing his father’s global bicycle adventure, a luxury yacht transformed into a fungal-infested ruin, and a Roman city spanning an area larger than Disneyland. Among these tales, one structure from 1,700 years ago has reemerged after being nearly erased from history.
A Monument Out of Time
Jetavanaramaya, a monumental 4th-century Sri Lankan structure, once held the title of the world’s largest brick-built edifice. Its construction arose from religious tensions, yet it endured centuries of seismic shifts, abandonment, and conflict. Though it remains the most voluminous brick monument ever built, its name is scarcely known beyond the island nation. For much of history, it faded into obscurity, only to be rediscovered in recent times.
Roman Splendor in Turkey
Meanwhile, in Turkey, the UNESCO-listed site of Ephesus stands as a remarkably intact Roman port city. Covering 1,600 acres—ten times the size of Disneyland—its historical wonders include grand temples, theaters, and bustling marketplaces. Once a thriving hub for figures like Alexander the Great and Cleopatra, Ephesus continues to attract 2.5 million tourists annually, offering a glimpse into ancient life.
Building Dreams in Barcelona
Turning to Europe, Antoni Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is nearing completion after 144 years of construction. The unfinished basilica, designed in 1882, will soon welcome its central tower’s opening under Pope Leo’s leadership. This architectural marvel, still in progress, exemplifies the blend of ambition and artistry that defines Gaudi’s legacy.
Unexpected Adventures
“I knew it was mine the moment I saw the listing.”
Englishwoman Amelia Butler purchased a one-bedroom apartment in Italy’s Basilicata region without a single visit. Her decision, driven by the valley view from the window, led to an unexpected discovery—her new home became a cornerstone of her life.
“It’s a real sort of connection to Dad. The only thing dividing us was time.”
Jamie Hargreaves embarked on a journey across Australia, mirroring his father’s 1980s round-the-world cycle trip. By replicating the same bicycle brand and revisiting familiar landmarks, he honored a bond that transcended generations.
Love Across Borders
For CNN subscribers, a story of serendipity unfolds. A woman in Alabama received a text reading, “Come outside, we’re surrounded by hot British men.” This encounter sparked three transatlantic love stories, culminating in three weddings. The tale captures the power of chance and the enduring nature of human connections.
Wonders and Perils
A Canadian couple’s quest for a luxury yacht took an unexpected turn. Despite its mold-ridden state, they felt an instant connection, transforming the vessel into their home over six years. In Japan, foreign tourists face rising risks as ski and snowboard accidents surge, with rescue teams warning of capacity limits.
British pubs, often seen as daunting for outsiders, can be navigated with clever strategies. Meanwhile, a viral image in Australia led to the shutdown of a scenic beauty spot, and a dream of Italian citizenship was jeopardized by unforeseen events.
