The Seven Wonders of the World are a list of iconic monuments that represent the greatness and ingenuity of human civilization. From ancient times to the modern era, these wonders have captured the imagination of people around the world. In this article, we will explore both the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the Seven New Wonders of the World, selected in a global vote in 2007.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The great Pyramid of Giza
- Location: Egypt
- Construction: Approximately 2580-2560 BC
- Description: The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and the only ancient wonder that still exists. Built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, this pyramid is a testament to the ancient Egyptians' advanced knowledge of mathematics, engineering and architecture. It originally reached a height of 146 meters, although today it measures 139 meters due to the loss of the external layer of limestone.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
- Location: Babylon (present-day Iraq)
- Construction: Approximately 600 BC
- Description: These gardens are said to have been built by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife Amytis, who missed the green hills of her homeland. Although no definitive archaeological evidence of its existence has been found, stories describe stepped terraces filled with exotic vegetation, creating a spectacular view in the middle of the desert.
The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus.
- Location: Ephesus (present-day Türkiye)
- Construction: Completed around 550 BC
- Description: This majestic temple was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Rebuilt several times due to fires and destruction, the temple was famous for its grandeur and detailed sculptures. It was finally destroyed in 401 AD by a mob led by Saint John Chrysostom.
The Zeus statue in Olimpia.
- Location: Olympia, Greece
- Construction: Approximately 435 BC
- Description: This imposing statue of Zeus, sculpted by Phidias, was made of ivory and gold. It was approximately 12 meters high and was located in the Temple of Zeus at Olympia. The statue was destroyed sometime in the 5th century AD, and only descriptions and replicas survive on coins and works of art.
The Halicarnaso Mausoleum.
- Location: Halicarnassus (present-day Bodrum, Türkiye)
- Construction: Completed around 350 BC
- Description: Built as a tomb for Mausolus, a satrap of the Persian Empire, and his wife Artemisia, this mausoleum was notable for its architectural design and detailed sculptures. It was about 45 meters high and was destroyed by a series of earthquakes during the Middle Ages.
The Colossus of Rhodes.
- Location: Rhodes Island, Greece
- Construction: Completed in 292 BC
- Description: This enormous bronze statue of Helios, the sun god, was approximately 33 meters high and stood at the entrance to the port of Rhodes. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 226 BC and was never rebuilt.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria.
- Location: Faro Island in Alexandria, Egypt
- Construction: Completed around 280 BC
- Description: Also known as the Lighthouse Tower, this lighthouse was one of the tallest in ancient times, with an estimated height of between 100 and 130 meters. Its purpose was to guide sailors to a safe harbor. The lighthouse suffered severe earthquake damage and was finally dismantled in the 14th century.
The New Seven Wonders of the World.
In 2007, a global initiative led to the selection of the New Seven Wonders of the World through a vote involving millions of people around the world. These wonders reflect the cultural and architectural diversity of the planet.
The Great Wall of China.
- Location: China
- Construction: Started in the 7th century BC and expanded during several dynasties
- Description: The Great Wall is a series of stone, brick and earth fortifications that extend for more than 21,000 kilometers. Built to protect Chinese states from nomadic invasions, the wall is a symbol of Chinese engineering and perseverance.
Petra.
- Location: Jordan
- Construction: Around the 5th century BC
- Description: Petra, known as the "Pink City", is famous for its structures carved directly into the sandstone rock. It was the capital of the Nabataeans and an important center of trade. The Treasury of Petra is one of its most iconic structures.
Christ the redeemer.
- Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Construction: Opened in 1931
- Description: This iconic statue of Jesus of Nazareth, with his arms outstretched, measures 30 meters high and is located on the top of Corcovado Hill. It is a symbol of Christianity and an icon of the city of Rio de Janeiro.
Macchu Picchu.
- Location: Peru
- Construction: 15th century
- Description: Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city located in the Andes Mountains. Abandoned during the Spanish conquest, it was rediscovered in 1911. It is famous for its perfectly assembled stone architecture and its impressive mountain landscapes.
The Colisseum.
- Location: Rome, Italy
- Construction: Inaugurated in 80 AD
- Description: This Roman amphitheater, the largest ever built, could hold up to 50,000 spectators. It was used for gladiators, animal hunts and other public events. Its imposing structure remains a testament to Roman engineering.
Chichen Itza.
- Location: Yucatan, Mexico
- Construction: 6th century to 12th century
- Description: Chichén Itzá was one of the largest and most significant cities of the Mayan civilization. The Temple of Kukulkan, a stepped pyramid, is one of its most recognized monuments. This city is famous for its advanced architecture and astronomical alignment.
TheTaj Mahal.
- Location: Agra, India
- Construction: Completed in 1653
- Description: The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is known for its perfect symmetry, intricate details and serene beauty. It represents one of the greatest expressions of love in architecture.
Importance and Legacy of Wonders.
The Seven Wonders of the World, both old and new, have a profound cultural and educational impact. They are symbols of creativity, ingenuity and diversity of human civilizations. These structures not only represent architectural and engineering achievements, but also the cultural and historical richness of the societies that built them.
- Tourism and Economy: Wonders are important tourist destinations that attract millions of visitors each year, generating significant income for local economies. For example, tourism at Machu Picchu and the Coliseum contributes greatly to the economies of Peru and Italy, respectively.
- Preservation and Heritage: The conservation of these wonders is crucial to preserve cultural heritage. Organizations like UNESCO work to protect and restore these historic sites, ensuring that future generations can appreciate them.
- Education and Culture: Wonders serve as educational tools, offering lessons on history, architecture, religion and society. They study the technical and artistic challenges overcome by ancient civilizations and allow a deeper understanding of human cultural evolution.
- National Identity and Pride: These monuments are often symbols of national identity and cultural pride. Christ the Redeemer in Brazil and the Taj Mahal in India are examples of how these sites can unify a nation and serve as emblems of its heritage and values.
The Seven Wonders of the World, both old and new, are witnesses to the greatness and diversity of human history. They represent extraordinary achievements in architecture and art, and continue to inspire admiration and awe around the world. By recognizing and preserving these wonders, we celebrate not only the masterpieces of the past, but also the ingenuity and creativity that defines humanity.