Xanthos, also known as Kinik, was a city located in the Lycia region of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). It was the capital of the Lycian Federation and an important city in the ancient world.

The city was first inhabited in the Bronze Age and was later ruled by the Persians, Greeks, and Romans. It was known for its rich culture and artistic tradition, with a large number of important monuments and tombs.

One of the most famous features of Xanthos is the Harpy Tomb, a large, ornately decorated tomb that features a group of winged female figures known as harpies. The tomb is thought to date back to the 5th century BCE and is considered one of the finest examples of Lycian art.

Another notable monument in Xanthos is the Nereid Monument, a large tomb that is decorated with intricate carvings of Nereids, sea nymphs from Greek mythology. The monument is thought to have been built in the 4th century BCE and is now located in the British Museum in London.

Xanthos was also an important center for early Christianity and was mentioned in the Bible as one of the seven churches of Asia. The city was eventually abandoned in the early Middle Ages and its ruins can still be seen today, including the remains of a theater, a stadium, and several temples. In 1988, Xanthos was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Xanthos

Xidi is a village located in the Anhui province of China. It is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the nearby village of Hongcun.

The village of Xidi was founded during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and was home to wealthy merchants during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1912) dynasties. The village is renowned for its beautiful residential houses, ancestral halls, and temples that were built in the Huizhou architectural style.

The architecture in Xidi is characterized by black tiled roofs, white walls, and intricate woodcarvings that reflect the craftsmanship of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The buildings are arranged around a central axis with narrow alleys and courtyards, reflecting the feng shui principles of the time.

One of the main attractions of Xidi is the Hu Wenguang Ancestral Hall, which was built in the 16th century and is known for its intricate woodcarvings and elaborate decorations. Another popular site is the Xidi Academy, which was established in the 17th century and was an important center of education during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Visitors to Xidi can also enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings, which include the nearby Huangshan Mountains and the Xin'an River. The village has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its rich history and unique architecture.

Xidi

Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the western Belize district of Cayo. It is one of the largest Mayan ruins in the country and dates back to the Classic Period, around 600-800 AD. Xunantunich is best known for its towering main pyramid, the "El Castillo" Temple, which stands at 130 feet tall and offers a stunning view of the surrounding countryside. The name "Xunantunich" means "Stone Lady" in the Yucatec Maya language, and the site is thought to have served as a ceremonial and administrative center for the ancient Mayans.

In addition to the El Castillo Temple, there are several other impressive structures at Xunantunich, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Moon, and several plazas and residential buildings. Visitors to the site can tour the structures, walk the ancient causeways, and learn about the history and culture of the Mayan people. A museum on the site offers additional information and artifacts, and there are several walking trails and picnic areas for those who want to spend a full day exploring the area.

Places starting with x

Xanthos

Xidi

Xunantunich