A lot of us get into archaeology because of a love of the past---the great, sweaty, sword-bashing past of wars fought without the threat of nuclear weapons or global involvement. You know, Mel Gibson on horseback, General Custer in big trouble. Horrifying in their way, but somehow separate, somehow kinder, somehow more honorable than battles of the present.

Many of the ancient---and not-so-ancient---battlefield sites are open to the public, to wander around and learn a bit more about the various political situations that were in play. It's amazing how quiet and peaceful these old blood-stained places all seem today. It's a lesson of the past we can't seem to learn, but I suppose it's good to recognize that somehow the world wags on.

Here's my list of the top five battlefield sites to visit.

• Top 5 Destinations: Battlefield Sites