The Secrets Behind The 7 Wonders Of The World
The seven wonders of the world represent the pinnacle of human achievement, blending history, culture, and architectural brilliance.
Author:Maya ReyesReviewer:Finn WildeAug 27, 2024110 Shares36.6K Views
The Seven Wonders of the Worldstand as remarkable examples of human achievement, showcasing the creativity, ambition, and engineering prowess of ancient civilizations. These iconic structures not only represent cultural heritage but also continue to inspire awe and wonder across the globe.
The Original Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World
The concept of the Seven Wonders originated in ancient Greece, where scholars compiled a list of remarkable structures that epitomized the pinnacle of human achievement. These wonders were considered must-see sites for travelers of the time, and although only one still stands today, their legacy lives on.
The Great Pyramid Of Giza (Egypt)
The Great Pyramid of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo, is the only wonder of the ancient world still in existence. Built around 2580–2560 BC during the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt, it served as the tomb for Pharaoh Khufu.
The pyramid's construction, involving millions of limestone blocks, remains a marvel of engineering, with theories still debated regarding how it was built. Standing at approximately 146.6 meters (481 feet), it was the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. If you're planning to visit the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, you can experience it as part of a comprehensive 15 day Egypt tour, which showcases the rich history and wonders of this remarkable country.
The Hanging Gardens Of Babylon (Iraq)
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are perhaps the most enigmatic of the Seven Wonders, as their very existence is debated. Said to have been constructed in the ancient city of Babylon, near present-day Baghdad, these gardens were described as an extraordinary feat of engineering, with terraces of greenery rising high above the ground. They were allegedly built by King Nebuchadnezzar IIfor his wife Amytis, who longed for the lush landscapes of her homeland. Despite their fame, no definitive archaeological evidence of the gardens has been found.
The Statue Of Zeus At Olympia (Greece)
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a monumental statue created by the Greek sculptor Phidias around 435 BC. Standing at approximately 12 meters (39 feet) tall, it depicted the king of the Greek gods seated on his throne, adorned with gold, ivory, and precious stones. The statue was housed in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, a site of great religious significance in ancient Greece. The statue was destroyed in the 5th century AD, likely by fire.
The Temple Of Artemis At Ephesus (Turkey)
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was a grand temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, located in what is now modern-day Turkey. Built around 550 BC, it was renowned for its immense size and the beauty of its architecture. The temple was rebuilt multiple times after being destroyed by fire and other disasters, but it was ultimately destroyed in the 5th century AD. The ruins of the temple, including some columns, can still be visited today.
The Mausoleum At Halicarnassus (Turkey)
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a tomb built for Mausolus, the Persian satrap of Caria, and his wife Artemisia, around 350 BC in present-day Bodrum, Turkey. The structure was approximately 45 meters (148 feet) tall and adorned with intricate sculptures. The Mausoleum was so famous that the term "mausoleum" has become synonymous with grand tombs. It was destroyed by a series of earthquakes in the 13th century, and only fragments remain.
The Colossus Of Rhodes (Greece)
The Colossus of Rhodes was a massive bronze statue of the sun god Helios, erected on the Greek island of Rhodes around 280 BC. Standing at approximately 33 meters (108 feet), it was one of the tallest statues of the ancient world. The statue was built to celebrate Rhodes' victory over the ruler of Cyprus in 305 BC. Unfortunately, it stood for only 54 years before being destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC. The remains were eventually sold for scrap metal.
The Lighthouse Of Alexandria (Egypt)
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was a towering beacon built on the small island of Pharos near the city of Alexandria, Egypt, around 280 BC. It stood between 100 and 130 meters (330 and 430 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest man-made structures of its time. The lighthouse guided sailors safely into the busy harbor of Alexandria for centuries before being destroyed by a series of earthquakes between the 10th and 14th centuries.
The New Seven Wonders Of The World
In 2007, the New7Wonders Foundation conducted a global poll to select the New Seven Wonders of the World. These modern wonders were chosen for their historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural impact, reflecting the achievements of humanity across different eras and regions.
The Great Wall Of China (China)
The Great Wall of China, an iconic symbol of Chinese history, is a series of fortifications built along the northern borders of China to protect against invasions. Construction began in the 7th century BC, with various dynasties adding to the wall over the centuries. Stretching over 21,000 kilometers (13,000 miles), it is the longest wall in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Petra (Jordan)
Petra, known as the "Rose City," is an archaeological site in southern Jordan famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Established as early as 312 BC, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and later became a major trading hub. The city's most famous structure, Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), is a stunning façade carved directly into the sandstone cliffs. Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the Middle East.
Read also on the hidden wonders of Petra, captured in photos
Christ The Redeemer (Brazil)
Christ the Redeemer is an iconic statue of Jesus Christ located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Completed in 1931, the statue stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, with an additional 8-meter (26 feet) pedestal. The statue's arms stretch 28 meters (92 feet) wide, symbolizing peace and embracing all of humanity. Christ the Redeemer is not only a symbol of Christianity but also a cultural icon representing Brazil's hospitality and warmth.
Machu Picchu (Peru)
Machu Picchu, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas," is an ancient Incan city located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Built in the 15th century and abandoned shortly after the Spanish conquest, Machu Picchu remained largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery in 1911 by American explorer Hiram Bingham. The site is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and breathtaking mountain setting. Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.
Read about: The Inca history and culture of Cusco, Peru
Chichen Itza (Mexico)
Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. Built by the Maya civilization between the 7th and 10th centuries, Chichen Itza was a major political and economic center. The site is best known for the Temple of Kukulcán, also known as El Castillo, a step pyramid that served as a temple to the god Kukulcán. The pyramid's design reflects the Mayan calendar, with 365 steps representing the days of the year. Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Mexico.
The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
The Roman Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an ancient amphitheater located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Completed in 80 AD, it is the largest amphitheater ever built and could hold up to 80,000 spectators. The Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other forms of entertainment. Despite being partially ruined due to earthquakes and stone robbers, it remains one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Rome and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Taj Mahal (India)
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is a stunning white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, with its intricate marble inlay work, symmetrical design, and expansive gardens. The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of eternal love, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Significance And Legacy Of The Seven Wonders
The Seven Wonders of the World, both ancient and modern, represent the incredible achievements of human civilization. They stand as testaments to the creativity, ambition, and perseverance of the cultures that built them. While the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are mostly lost to history, their legacy lives on through the New Seven Wonders, which continue to inspire awe and admiration.
FAQs
How Were The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World Chosen?
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were chosen by ancient Greek scholars who compiled lists of the most remarkable man-made structures they had encountered or heard of. These wonders were considered essential sites for travelers of the time.
Why Is The Great Pyramid Of Giza The Only Ancient Wonder Still Standing?
The Great Pyramid of Giza has survived for thousands of years due to its massive stone construction and the arid climate of Egypt, which has helped preserve it. Other ancient wonders were destroyed by natural disasters, human actions, or simply the passage of time.
How Were The New Seven Wonders Of The World Selected?
The New Seven Wonders of the World were selected through a global poll conducted by the New7Wonders Foundation in 2007. The poll allowed people from around the world to vote for the modern wonders they believed were the most significant.
Are There Other Lists Of Wonders Besides The Seven Wonders Of The World?
Yes, there are several other lists of wonders, including the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Seven Wonders of the Industrial World, and the Seven Wonders of the Underwater World, each highlighting different aspects of natural or human-made marvels.
Can I Visit All The New Seven Wonders Of The World Today?
Yes, all the New Seven Wonders of the World are popular tourist destinations, and each is accessible to visitors. However, it's important to plan your visit in advance, as some sites, like Machu Picchu, have restrictions on the number of visitors allowed each day to preserve the site.
Conclusion
The Seven Wonders of the World remain timeless symbols of human ingenuity and artistic brilliance. They offer a glimpse into the past and remind us of the extraordinary capabilities of ancient societies, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to captivate and inspire.
Maya Reyes
Author
Maya Reyes’s wanderlust was sparked in the temples of Luang Prabang, where the scent of lemongrass and the chants of monks revealed the transformative power of travel.
Since then, her journey has been defined by cultural immersion and authentic connections. From learning batik in Indonesia to sharing meals with nomadic families in Mongolia, Maya seeks experiences that highlight the human stories behind each destination.
Travel for her is a way to weave her narrative into the world’s cultural tapestry, creating bridges across diverse ways of life. Maya has traveled to 15 countries and shares her insights through writing and storytelling.
Finn Wilde
Reviewer
For Finn Wilde, the wilderness is more than just a destination - it’s a way of life. Over the past decade, he has led multiple expeditions in some of the world’s most remote regions, from the icy fjords of Greenland to the rugged trails of Patagonia.
Finn emphasizes sustainability in all of his adventures, helping participants connect with nature while promoting responsible exploration. His expeditions inspire individuals to explore the great outdoors while fostering a deep respect for the environment.
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