One such site is the Banaue Rice Terraces, often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Carved into mountainsides by indigenous tribes over 2,000 years ago, these terraces are a testament to their engineering prowess. Stretching over 10,000 square kilometers across Ifugao province, they showcase an intricate irrigation system that allowed rice cultivation on otherwise steep slopes. Today, these terraces continue to be cultivated by local farmers who have preserved this ancient agricultural practice. Moving southward from Luzon Island to Visayas region lies another mysterious ruin – the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. Comprising more than 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills spread across an area of about 50 square kilometers; these geological formations have baffled scientists for centuries.
Legend has it that they were formed when two giants engaged in a fierce battle and threw rocks at each other until exhaustion turned them into hills. While geologists attribute their formation to coral deposits uplifted by tectonic forces millions of years ago, there’s no denying their captivating beauty. In Palawan province stands one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites – Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. This underground river stretches for approximately eight kilometers through limestone caves before flowing directly into the sea. Exploring this natural wonder takes visitors on a boat ride through pitch-black darkness while marveling at stalactites and stalagmites illuminated only by flashlights or headlamps.
Further down south in Mindanao lies Mount Apo Natural Park – home to Mount Apo itself which stands as Southeast Asia’s highest peak. Legacies in Stone Exploring the Philippines’ Ancient Ruins The Philippines is a country rich in history and culture, with a diverse range of ancient ruins scattered throughout its archipelago. These remnants of the past serve as a testament to the civilizations that once thrived on these lands, leaving behind fascinating stories waiting to be discovered. One such site is the Banaue Rice Terraces, often referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Carved the ruins into mountainsides by indigenous tribes over 2,000 years ago, these terraces are not only an engineering marvel but also a symbol of sustainable agriculture.