45 Ancient Ruins That Are Even More Stunning Than the Pyramids

45. Nazca Lines (Nazca Desert, Peru): Geoglyphs Etched into the Desert

The Nazca Lines, etched into the arid plains of Peru's Nazca Desert between 500 BCE and 500 CE, are a collection of massive geoglyphs depicting animals, plants, and geometric shapes. Best viewed from the air, these colossal drawings, created by removing reddish-brown rocks to expose lighter soil, remain an archaeological enigma. Their purpose—astronomical calendars, ritual pathways, or messages to deities—is still debated. The sheer scale and precision of these ancient artworks in such an unforgiving landscape make them one of the world's most mysterious and awe-inspiring ancient sites.