Together with millions of visitors each year, these renowned monuments are outstanding instances of human invention, architectural skill, and cultural value.
New Seven Wonders of the World
1. The Great Wall of China (China):
An old defensive system, the Great Wall of China runs more than 13,000 miles in northern China. Constructed over several centuries, the goal was to stave off incursions and assaults. The wall exhibits remarkable engineering and strategic planning with its watchtowers, battlements that were, and natural barriers. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as an indicator of China’s rich historical past.
| Location | Northern China |
| Total Length | Over 21,000 kilometers (13,000 miles) |
| Construction Period | Various dynasties, starting from the 7th century BC |
| Purpose | Defensive fortification against invasions |
| Materials | Stone, brick, tamped earth and wood |
| Notable Sections | Mutianyu, Badaling, Jiankou, Simatai and Juyongguan |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site since 1987 |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the most visited and iconic landmarks |
Emperor Qin Shi Huang:
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Qin Shi Huang (秦始皇) |
| Born | February 18, 259 BC |
| Died | September 10, 210 BC |
| Reign | From 246 BC (as King of Qin) and 221 BC (as Emperor) |
| Dynasty | Qin Dynasty (221–206 BC) |
| Significance | Unified China initiated the construction of the Great Wall |
| Terracotta Army | He commissioned the Terracotta Army for his mausoleum |
| Legacy | Known for legal reforms, standardization, and the Great Wall |
2. Petra (Jordan):
The ancient city of Petra, which is in southern Jordan, is well-known for its beautiful architecture set into rose-red cliffs. Constructed in 300 BCE by the Nabataeans, it functioned as an important hub for trade. The most famous building is Al-Khazneh, a large temple etched into the side of a rock. Petra, a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO, is evidence of the engineering prowess and cultural importance of the ancient city.
| Location | Southern Jordan |
| Built By | Nabataeans (around 300 BCE) |
| Construction Period | Flourished in the 1st century BCE to 2nd century CE |
| Designation | UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 |
| Notable Structures | Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Monastery, Qasr Al-Bint |
| Purpose | Trade hub, center of Nabataean caravan routes |
| Architectural Style | Rock-cut architecture, blending Hellenistic and Arabian influences |
| Rediscovery | Rediscovered by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812 |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the New Seven Wonders of the World |
Nabataeans:
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient Arab civilization in the Arabian Desert |
| Capital | Raqmu (now known as Petra) |
| Trade | Known for their role in the lucrative incense trade routes |
| Water Management | Engineering expertise in water conservation and storage |
| Religion | Initially polytheistic, later influenced by Hellenistic and Arabian religions |
| Decline | The decline began in the 2nd century CE, possibly due to changes in trade routes and earthquakes |
3. Christ the Redeemer (Brazil):
Christ the Redeemer is a famous Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Standing atop the Corcovado mountain with an amazing view of Guanabara Bay and the city below, it was finished in 1931. The statue, which draws millions of tourists each year, is a representation of Brazilian culture, Christianity, and peace. One of the New 7 Wonders of the World, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
| Location | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil |
| Completion Year | Completed in 1931 |
| Height | Approximately 30 meters (98 feet) pedestal, with the statue itself standing at 30 meters (98 feet) |
| Material | Reinforced concrete and soapstone |
| Design and Style | Art Deco style, created by French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa |
| Purpose | Symbol of Christianity and a cultural icon of Brazil |
| UNESCO Status | Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007 |
| Accessibility | Accessible via a train and a series of escalators and elevators |
| Viewpoint | Offers panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, including the Sugarloaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay |
| Cultural Significance | A prominent symbol of Brazilian identity and a popular tourist attraction |
| Maintenance | Ongoing maintenance and restoration efforts to preserve the statue |
| Lighting Effects | Illuminated at night, often in different colors for special occasions |
4. Machu Picchu (Peru):
Situated amidst Peru’s Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is a historic Inca stronghold that dates back to the fifteenth century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its beautiful stone structures and breath-taking panoramic views, is a monument to the engineering prowess of the Incas. Though its exact function is unknown, it is thought to have functioned as a royal estate or a place of retreat for religious people. Machu Picchu is a well-liked travel destination that attracts tourists with its breathtaking natural surroundings and historical significance.
| Location | Andes Mountains, Peru |
| Built By | Incas, led by Emperor Pachacuti |
| Construction Period | Built in the 15th century, around 1450–1460 |
| Designation | UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 |
| Purpose | Believed to be a royal estate or religious retreat |
| Architecture | Inca stone masonry, featuring impressive terraces and structures |
| Rediscovery | Rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 |
| Significance | Represents the pinnacle of Inca civilization, a masterpiece of architecture |
| Access | Reached by train and bus, followed by a hike or bus ride up to the site |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the most visited archaeological sites in the world |
| Cultural Importance | Integral to Inca history, a symbol of Peruvian heritage |
| Conservation | Ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the site |
Emperor Pachacuti (Inca Ruler):
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui |
| Reign Period | 1438–1471 |
| Achievements | Founder of the Inca Empire’s expansion phase, Led military campaigns, expanding the empire, Constructed significant structures, including Machu Picchu |
| Legacy | Pachacuti is considered one of the greatest Inca rulers, transforming the Inca Empire into a powerful and sophisticated state |
| Military Campaigns | Successfully led campaigns to expand the Inca territory significantly |
| Architectural Contributions | Known for constructing major architectural projects, including the royal estate at Machu Picchu |
| Death | He passed away around 1471 and was succeeded by his son, Tupac Inca Yupanqui |
5. Chichen Itza (Mexico):
Relatively speaking, Chichen Itza was a prominent Maya city and is a well-known archaeological site on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Chichen Itza, which thrived from the 7th to the 10th centuries, is well-known for its outstanding astronomical observatory, El Castillo, and its famous step pyramid. It draws tourists because of its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural value. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The structures constructed on the site exhibit a blend of Toltec and Maya influences.
| Location | Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico |
| Civilization | Primarily built by the Maya, influenced by Toltec |
| Period of Construction | Flourished from the 7th to the 10th century |
| Designation | UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 |
| Key Structures | El Castillo (The Pyramid of Kukulcan), Temple of the Warriors, Observatory (El Caracol), Great Ball Court |
| Astronomical Significance | El Castillo’s alignment with equinoxes showcases advanced knowledge |
| Cultural Importance | Major religious and trading center; hub of Maya-Toltec civilization |
| Rediscovery | Explored by archaeologists in the late 19th century, including Edward H. Thompson and Sylvanus G. Morley |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico |
| Current Status | Ongoing preservation efforts and site management |
| Modern Understanding | A testament to Maya architectural and scientific achievements |
6. Roman Colosseum (Italy):
Located in the center of Rome, Italy, the Roman Colosseum is a historic amphitheater that was originally used for public achievements, animal hunts, and gladiator bouts. This enormous building, which can hold over 50,000 spectators, is an architectural wonder that was finished in the year 80 AD. It is one of the most visited and well-known landmarks in the world because of its distinctive design and historical significance. The Colosseum is a representation of the entertainment and engineering brilliance of ancient Rome.
| Location | Rome, Italy |
| Construction Period | Completed in 80 AD during the Flavian dynasty |
| Purpose | Amphitheater for gladiator contests and public spectacles |
| Architectural Style | Roman engineering, with a capacity for over 50,000 spectators |
| Materials | Concrete and sand, with travertine stone facade |
| Design Features | Elliptical shape, multiple tiers, underground passages, and a retractable awning system (velarium) |
| Historical Significance | Symbol of ancient Roman entertainment and engineering prowess |
| Later Use | Used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a quarry |
| Preservation Status | Ongoing restoration and conservation efforts |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the most visited and iconic landmarks in the world |
7. Taj Mahal (India):
The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the Taj Mahal in 1632 as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. This famous white marble mausoleum in Agra, India, with its exquisite carvings and classic design, is an illustration of unending love.
| Name | Taj Mahal |
| Location | Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Built By | Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan |
| Built In | Construction started in 1632 and was completed in 1653 |
| Architectural Style | Mughal architecture |
| Significance | Symbol of eternal love; UNESCO World Heritage |
| Material Used | White marble, inlaid with semi-precious stones |
| Dimensions | Height: 73 meters (240 feet) Length: 73 meters (240 feet) Width: 58 meters (190 feet) |
| Main Structure | Main mausoleum with a dome and four minarets |
| Central garden with water channels and pools | |
| Interior Features | Intricate marble carvings and inlays, Quranic inscriptions and calligraphy |
| Purpose | Built as a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan’s wife |
| Construction Material | White marble quarried from Makrana, Rajasthan |
| Construction Techniques | Traditional Mughal construction techniques |
| Historical Significance | Built as a symbol of love and grief |
| Tourist Attraction | One of the most visited monuments in India |
Personal details (Shah Jahan):
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shahab-ud-din Muhammad Khurram (Shah Jahan) |
| Born | January 5, 1592 |
| Died | January 31, 1666 |
| Reign | 1628–1658 |
| Spouse | Mumtaz Mahal (for whom Taj Mahal was built) |
| Achievements | Known for architectural and cultural patronage; builder of several monuments |
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were a list of remarkable and culturally significant structures in the ancient Mediterranean and Near East. These wonders, known for their architectural and artistic achievements, were:
1. Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt):
The oldest and biggest of the three pyramids on the Giza Plateau in Egypt is the Great Pyramid of Giza, which was constructed for Pharaoh Khufu in 2560 BCE. The pyramid, standing at a height of roughly 146.6 meters (481 feet), is a lasting monument to the mastery of ancient Egyptian engineering. Made up of some 2.3 million slabs of granite and limestone, it was used as a massive tomb and is still regarded as one of the seven wonders of the Old World. Its architectural wonder and historical relevance attract tourists to it.
| Location | Giza Plateau, near Cairo, Egypt |
| Pharaoh | Built for Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops) |
| Construction Period | Around 2560 BCE |
| Height | Approximately 146.6 meters (481 feet) |
| Material | Mainly limestone and granite |
| Blocks Used | Approximately 2.3 million |
| Purpose | Originally built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu |
| Architectural Style | Traditional Egyptian pyramid design |
| Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Construction Techniques | Precise alignment and construction techniques, including the use of inclined planes |
| Internal Chambers | There are three main chambers: King’s Chamber, Queen’s Chamber, and Subterranean Chamber |
Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops):
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Khufu (also known as Cheops) |
| Reign Period | Around 2589–2566 BCE |
| Dynasty | Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt |
| Significance | Pharaoh, during the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the most famous and powerful rulers of ancient Egypt |
| Monuments | Besides the Great Pyramid, Khufu is associated with other construction projects in Giza, including the Pyramid of Khafre and the Great Sphinx |
2. Hanging Gardens of Babylon (Iraq):
One of the 7 Wonders of the Old World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were a fabled terraced garden located in Babylon, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). Built by Nebuchadnezzar II in the year 600 BCE, the gardens were well-known for their luxuriant vegetation and innovative irrigation system that seemed to defy gravity. The Hanging Gardens are praised for their magnificent design and their historical importance in ancient Mesopotamian civilization, even though researchers disagree as to whether or not they actually exist.
| Location | Babylon, Mesopotamia (modern-day Hillah, Iraq) |
| Attributed to | Nebuchadnezzar II (reigned 605–562 BCE) |
| Construction Period | Around 600 BCE |
| Nature | Terraced gardens with plants and trees |
| Irrigation System | Described as a complex system lifting water to the upper terraces, possibly using a chain pump or Archimedean screw |
| Architectural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World |
| Existence Debate | Historians debate the existence and location of the Hanging Gardens, as some ancient accounts are contradictory |
| Cultural Impact | Symbolic of advanced engineering and grandeur in ancient Mesopotamian culture |
| UNESCO Status | Not designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, possibly due to the uncertainty of their existence |
Nebuchadnezzar II (King of Babylon):
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nebuchadnezzar II |
| Reign Period | 605–562 BCE |
| Dynasty | Neo-Babylonian Empire |
| Construction Projects | Associated with extensive construction projects in Babylon, including the Ishtar Gate and the possible construction of the Hanging Gardens |
| Military Campaigns | Known for military campaigns, including the capture of Jerusalem and the Babylonian Captivity |
| Architectural Legacy | Remembered for his ambitious building projects, contributing to the grandeur of Babylon |
| Contributions | Expanded and fortified the city of Babylon, making it one of the most splendid cities of the ancient world |
3. Statue of Zeus at Olympia (Greece):
The enormous sculpture made of gold and ivory, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia, was the work of the Greek sculptor Phidias. The statue, which was built in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia in 435 BCE, showed the Greek deity ruler seated on a throne. It was hailed for its artistic prowess and stood more than 40 feet tall, making it one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Sadly, the statue has been lost to the passage of time and is no longer in existence.
| Location | Temple of Zeus, Olympia, Greece |
| Sculptor | Phidias (also known as Pheidias) |
| Construction Period | Around 435 BCE |
| Materials | Gold and ivory |
| Height | Over 40 feet (estimated) |
| Style | Classical Greek sculpture |
| Representation | Zeus, king of the Greek gods, seated on a throne |
| Artistic Mastery | Celebrated as a masterpiece of ancient Greek art |
| Cultural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World |
| Fate | The statue no longer exists; its exact fate is unknown |
| Temple of Zeus | Constructed to house the statue, part of the sanctuary at Olympia |
| Legacy | Phidias is remembered as one of the greatest sculptors of ancient Greece |
4. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Turkey):
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, constructed around 550 BCE in the ancient city of Ephesus, Turkey, was a magnificent Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Renowned for its grandeur and architectural splendor, the temple featured over 100 columns and intricate decorative elements. Regrettably, it faced destruction multiple times, with the final blow coming in 401 CE. Despite its ultimate demise, the Temple of Artemis remains a symbol of ancient craftsmanship and religious devotion.
| Location | Ephesus, near present-day Selçuk, Turkey |
| Dedicated to | Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and wild animals |
| Construction Period | The original temple was built around 550 BCE and rebuilt multiple times |
| Architectural Style | Classical Greek, with Ionic order columns |
| Size and Features | Initially featured over 100 columns, each about 60 feet tall, adorned with ornate carvings, and a large statue of Artemis within |
| Destroyers | Sacked by Herostratus in 356 BCE; rebuilt by Alexander the Great; later destroyed by the Goths in 268 CE |
| Final Destruction | Ultimately destroyed by a mob led by St. John Chrysostom in 401 CE |
| Cultural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; symbol of ancient Greek and Roman architecture |
| Legacy | Despite its destruction, it continues to be a subject of fascination and study in archaeology and art history |
| Site Status | Archaeological remains are visible at the site; some artifacts are displayed in the British Museum and the Ephesus Museum |
5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Turkey):
The mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a colossal tomb that his wife Artemisia II built for her husband Mausolus, the satrap of Caria, in the city of Halicarnassus (present-day Bodrum, Turkey). When it was finished, in 353 BCE, the mausoleum was a work of art in ancient architecture, with elaborate friezes and sculptures. It was renowned for its beauty and was considered one of the seven great wonders of the Old World until a series of earthquakes ultimately destroyed it. Because of its historical significance, the term “mausoleum” comes from this majestic edifice.
| Location | Halicarnassus (modern-day Bodrum), Turkey |
| Built for | Mausolus, the satrap of Caria |
| Constructed by | Artemisia II, wife and sister of Mausolus |
| Construction Period | Completed around 353 BCE |
| Architects | Satyros and Pythius, with contributions from other renowned sculptors and architects |
| Architectural Style | A blend of Greek, Egyptian, and Lycian influences |
| Height | Approximately 45 meters (148 feet) |
| Decoration | Elaborate sculptures, friezes, and statues adorned the exterior; detailed reliefs depicted scenes from mythology |
| Fate | It suffered damage from earthquakes in the Middle Ages and was eventually dismantled |
| Legacy | Coined the term “mausoleum” for monumental tombs; fragments displayed in the British Museum |
| Cultural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World exemplifies Hellenistic architecture |
| Site Status | Ruins of the Mausoleum site are still visible in Bodrum; some artifacts displayed in local museums |
6. Colossus of Rhodes (Greece):
The Colossus of Rhodes was a massive bronze statue of the Greek sun god Helios that was located at the port entrance. The statue, which stood around 33 meters (108 feet) tall and signified protection and victory, was erected circa 280 BCE. One of the seven wonders of history, the Colossus, was sculpted by Chares of Lindos. Regretfully, the statue was only in place for a few decades before an earthquake in 226 BCE caused it to fall. The Colossus of Rhodes, in spite of its brief existence, still stands as a legendary representation of Greek engineering and art.
| Location | Harbor of Rhodes, Greece |
| Erected for | Helios, the Greek god of the sun |
| Construction Period | Completed around 280 BCE |
| Sculptor | Chares of Lindos |
| Material | Constructed of bronze |
| Height | Approximately 33 meters (108 feet) |
| Symbolism | Symbol of victory and protection; tribute to the sun god Helios |
| Status | It stood for a few decades before being toppled by an earthquake in 226 BCE |
| Cultural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; symbol of ancient Greek art and engineering |
| Fate | The fallen statue remained in place for centuries, becoming a tourist attraction; eventually, it was melted down and sold as scrap by Arab conquerors |
7. Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt):
Built on the little island of Pharos in Alexandria, Egypt’s port, the Lighthouse of Alexandria is a wonder of prehistoric engineering. Built in the year 280 BCE, this ancient wonder of the world measured between 100 and 130 meters (330 and 430 feet) in height. With its striking beacon of light, the lighthouse, created by Greek architect Sostratus of Cnidus, assisted seafarers in navigation. Sadly, a string of earthquakes between 956 and 1323 CE demolished it, bringing an end to this famous old building.
| Location | Island of Pharos, Alexandria, Egypt |
| Construction Period | Completed around 280 BCE |
| Architect | Sostratus of Cnidus |
| Height | Approximately 100–130 meters (330–430 feet) |
| Material | Mainly made of limestone and marble |
| Function | Navigational aid with a large open flame at the top, serving as a beacon for sailors |
| Three Tiers | The lighthouse was said to have three tiers: a square base, a cylindrical middle section, and a smaller, circular tower at the top housing the flame |
| Destruction | Damaged by earthquakes in 956 and 1323 CE, leading to its ultimate collapse |
| Cultural Significance | One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; symbol of ancient engineering and architectural achievement |
| Influence | The term “pharos” (lighthouse) is derived from the structure’s name |