essay on new seven wonders of the world

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New Seven Wonders of the World

In 2000 a Swiss foundation launched a campaign to determine the New Seven Wonders of the World. Given that the original Seven Wonders list was compiled in the 2nd century BCE—and that only one entrant is still standing (the Pyramids of Giza )—it seemed time for an update. And people around the world apparently agreed, as more than 100 million votes were cast on the Internet or by text messaging. The final results, which were announced in 2007, were met with cheers as well as some jeers—a number of prominent contenders, such as Athens ’s Acropolis , failed to make the cut. Do you agree with the new list?

Great Wall of China

Great might be an understatement. One of the world’s largest building-construction projects, the Great Wall of China is widely thought to be about 5,500 miles (8,850 km) long; a disputed Chinese study, however, claims the length is 13,170 miles (21,200 km). Work began in the 7th century BCE and continued for two millennia. Although called a “wall,” the structure actually features two parallel walls for lengthy stretches. In addition, watchtowers and barracks dot the bulwark. One not-so-great thing about the wall, however, was its effectiveness. Although it was built to prevent invasions and raids, the wall largely failed to provide actual security. Instead, scholars have noted that it served more as “political propaganda.”

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is a Mayan city on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico , which flourished in the 9th and 10th centuries CE. Under the Mayan tribe Itzá—who were strongly influenced by the Toltecs —a number of important monuments and temples were built. Among the most notable is the stepped pyramid El Castillo (“The Castle”), which rises 79 feet (24 meters) above the Main Plaza. A testament to the Mayans’ astronomical abilities, the structure features a total of 365 steps, the number of days in the solar year. During the spring and autumnal equinoxes, the setting sun casts shadows on the pyramid that give the appearance of a serpent slithering down the north stairway; at the base is a stone snake head. Life there was not all work and science, however. Chichén Itzá is home to the largest tlachtli (a type of sporting field) in the Americas. On that field the residents played a ritual ball game popular throughout pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

The ancient city of Petra , Jordan , is located in a remote valley, nestled among sandstone mountains and cliffs. It was purported to be one of the places where Moses struck a rock and water gushed forth. Later the Nabataeans , an Arab tribe, made it their capital, and during this time it flourished, becoming an important trade center, especially for spices. Noted carvers, the Nabataeans chiseled dwellings, temples, and tombs into the sandstone, which changed color with the shifting sun. In addition, they constructed a water system that allowed for lush gardens and farming. At its height, Petra reportedly had a population of 30,000. The city began to decline, however, as trade routes shifted. A major earthquake in 363 CE caused more difficulty, and after another tremor hit in 551, Petra was gradually abandoned. Although rediscovered in 1912, it was largely ignored by archaeologists until the late 20th century, and many questions remain about the city.

Machu Picchu

This Incan site near Cuzco , Peru , was “discovered” in 1911 by Hiram Bingham , who believed it was Vilcabamba, a secret Incan stronghold used during the 16th-century rebellion against Spanish rule. Although that claim was later disproved, the purpose of Machu Picchu has confounded scholars. Bingham believed it was home to the “ Virgins of the Sun ,” women who lived in convents under a vow of chastity. Others think that it was likely a pilgrimage site, while some believe it was a royal retreat. (One thing it apparently should not be is the site of a beer commercial. In 2000 a crane being used for such an ad fell and cracked a monument.) What is known is that Machu Picchu is one of the few major pre-Columbian ruins found nearly intact. Despite its relative isolation high in the Andes Mountains , it features agricultural terraces, plazas, residential areas, and temples.

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer , a colossal statue of Jesus , stands atop Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro . Its origins date to just after World War I , when some Brazilians feared a “tide of godlessness.” They proposed a statue, which was ultimately designed by Heitor da Silva Costa, Carlos Oswald, and Paul Landowski. Construction began in 1926 and was completed five years later. The resulting monument stands 98 feet (30 meters) tall—not including its base, which is about 26 feet (8 meters) high—and its outstretched arms span 92 feet (28 meters). It is the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world. Christ the Redeemer is made of reinforced concrete and is covered in approximately six million tiles. Somewhat disconcertingly, the statue has often been struck by lightning, and in 2014 the tip of Jesus’s right thumb was damaged during a storm.

The Colosseum in Rome was built in the first century by order of the Emperor Vespasian . A feat of engineering, the amphitheater measures 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters) and features a complex system of vaults. It was capable of holding 50,000 spectators, who watched a variety of events. Perhaps most notable were gladiator fights, though men battling animals was also common. In addition, water was sometimes pumped into the Colosseum for mock naval engagements. However, the belief that Christians were martyred there—namely, by being thrown to lions—is debated. According to some estimates, about 500,000 people died in the Colosseum. Additionally, so many animals were captured and then killed there that certain species reportedly became extinct.

This mausoleum complex in Agra , India , is regarded as one of the world’s most iconic monuments and is perhaps the finest example of Mughal architecture . It was built by Emperor Shah Jahān (reigned 1628–58) to honor his wife Mumtāz Maḥal (“Chosen One of the Palace”), who died in 1631 giving birth to their 14th child. It took about 22 years and 20,000 workers to construct the complex, which includes an immense garden with a reflecting pool. The mausoleum is made of white marble that features semiprecious stones in geometric and floral patterns. Its majestic central dome is surrounded by four smaller domes. According to some reports, Shah Jahān wished to have his own mausoleum made out of black marble. However, he was deposed by one of his sons before any work began.

Wonders of the World - Winners and Finalists

• Great Buildings
• An Introduction to Architecture
• Famous Architects
• Famous Houses
• Skyscrapers
• Tips For Homeowners
• Art & Artists

• Doctor of Arts, University of Albany, SUNY
• M.S., Literacy Education, University of Albany, SUNY
• B.A., English, Virginia Commonwealth University

Christ the Redeemer, One of the New 7 Wonders

You may know about the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. Only one - the Great Pyramid at Giza - still stands. So, Swiss film producer and aviator Bernard Weber launched a global voting campaign to let you, and millions of other people, create a NEW list. Unlike the list of Ancient Wonders, the New Seven Wonders list includes both ancient and modern structures from every part of the world.

From the hundreds of recommendations, architects Zaha Hadid , Tadao Ando, Cesar Pelli , and other expert judges selected 21 finalists. Then, millions of voters around the world picked the top seven New Wonders of the World.

The New Seven Wonders of the World were announced in Lisbon, Portugal on Saturday, July 7, 2007. This photo gallery displays the winners and the finalists.

Christ the Redeemer Statue:

Completed in 1931, the Christ Redeemer statue that overlooks the city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is a monument to the architecture of its day— Art Deco.   As an art deco icon, Jesus became sleek in form, a near two-dimensional flag with robes of strong lines. Also called Cristo Redentor, the statue towers atop the Corcovado mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. From the 21 finalists, the Christ Redeemer statue was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It is an iconic statue.

Chichen Itza in Yucatan, Mexico

Ancient Mayan and Toltec civilizations built great temples, palaces, and monuments at Chichen Itza on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico.

One of the New 7 Wonders

Chichen Itza, or Chichén Itzá, offers a rare glimpse into Mayan and Toltec civilization in Mexico. Located about 90 miles from the coast in the northern Yucatan peninsula, the archaeological site has temples, palaces, and other important buildings.

There are actually two parts to Chichen: the old city that thrived between 300 and 900 AD, and the new city that became the center of Mayan civilization between 750 and 1200 AD. Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site and voted to be a new wonder of the world.

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

At least 50,000 spectators could sit in the Colosseum of ancient Rome. Today, the amphitheater reminds us of early modern sports arenas. In 2007, the Colosseum was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

The Flavian emperors Vespasian and Titus built the Colosseum, or Coliseum , in central Rome between 70 and 82 AD. The Colosseum is sometimes called the Amphitheatrum Flavium (Flavian Amphitheater) after the emperors who constructed it.

The powerful architecture has influenced sports venues around the world, including the 1923 Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles. The mighty stadium in California, modeled after ancient Rome's, was site of the first Super Bowl game in 1967 .

Much of Rome's Colosseum has deteriorated, but major restoration efforts are preserving the structure. The ancient amphitheater is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Rome, and one of Rome's most popular tourist attractions.

Learn More:

• The Colosseum - Roman Death Trap - NOVA Video Review
• Photos of the Colosseum in Rome from Italy Travel
• From Flavian Amphitheater to Colosseum from Ancient History
• The Coliseum, a poem by Edgar Allan Poe from Archaeology
• Architecture in Italy
• Nova: Building Wonders (DVD) ( Buy on Amazon )

Great Wall of China

Stretching for thousands of miles, the Great Wall of China protected ancient China from invaders. The Great Wall of China is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2007, it was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

No one is sure exactly how long the Great Wall of China is. Many say that the Great Wall extends some 3,700 miles (6,000 kilometers). But the Great Wall is not actually a single wall but a series of disconnected walls.

Snaking along the hills in the southern part of the Mongolian plain, the Great Wall (or Walls) were built over centuries, beginning as early as 500 BC. During the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC), many walls were joined and re-enforced for greater strength. In places, the massive walls are as tall as 29.5 feet (9 meters).

• More About the Great Wall of China
• Architecture in China

Machu Picchu in Peru

Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, nestles in a remote ridge among the Peruvian mountains. On July 24, 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham was led by natives to a nearly inaccessible deserted Incan city on a Peruvian mountaintop. On this day, Machu Picchu became known to the Western world.

In the fifteenth century, the Inca constructed the small city of Machu Picchu in a ridge between two mountain peaks. Beautiful and remote, the buildings were constructed of finely cut white granite blocks. No mortar was used. Because Machu Picchu is so difficult to reach, this legendary city of the Inca was almost lost to explorers until the early 1900s. The historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

More About Machu Picchu:

• Archaeology of Machu Picchu
• Facts About Machu Picchu

Petra, Jordan, the Nabataean Caravan City

Carved from rose-red limestone, Petra, Jordan was lost to the Western World from about the 14th century until the early 19th century. Today, the ancient city is one of the world's largest and most important archaeological sites. It has been an inscribed property of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre since 1985.

Inhabited for thousands of years, the strikingly beautiful desert city of Petra, Jordan was once home to a civilization long since vanished. Petra's location between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea made it an important center for commerce, where Arabian incense, Chinese silks, and Indian spices were traded. The buildings reflect a welcoming of cultures, combining native Eastern traditions with Western Classical (850 BC-476 AD) architecture from Hellenistic Greece . Noted by UNESCO as "half-built, half-carved into the rock," this capital city also had a sophisticated system of dams and channels for collecting, diverting, and providing water to the arid region.

• Petra, UNESCO World Heritage Centre
• Architecture in the Middle East

The Taj Mahal in Agra, India

Built in 1648, the Taj Mahal in Agra, India is a masterpiece of Muslim architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Some 20,000 workers spent twenty-two years constructing the glistening white Taj Mahal. Made entirely of marble, the structure was designed as a mausoleum for a favorite wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Mughal architecture is characterized by harmony, balance, and geometry. Beautifully symmetrical, each element of the Taj Mahal is independent, yet perfectly integrated with the structure as a whole. The master architect was Ustad Isa.

Facts and Stats:

• Top Dome - 213 feet high
• Minarets - 162.5 feet high
• Platform - 186 feet by 186 feet
• Cost To Build - 32 Million Rupees

Taj Mahal Collapse?

The Taj Mahal is one of many famous monuments on the World Monuments Fund's Watch List, which documents endangered landmarks. Pollution and environmental changes have jeopardized the wooden foundation of the Taj Mahal. Professor Ram Nath, an expert on the building, has claimed that unless the foundation is repaired, the Taj Mahal will collapse.

• World Monument Fund: Taj Mahal
• India's Taj Mahal In Danger Of Collapsing in the Huffington Post
• Taj Mahal could collapse within five years in Mail Online
• Architecture of Taj Mahal Dome
• What Is the Taj Mahal?
• Temple for a Lost Love: India's Taj Mahal
• The Mughal Empire in India

Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau, Germany

Does Neuschwanstein Castle look familiar? This romantic German palace may have inspired the fairy tale castles created by Walt Disney.

New 7 Wonders Finalist

Although it is called a castle , this building in Schwangau, Germany is not a medieval fortress. With towering white turrets, Neuschwanstein Castle is a fanciful 19th century palace built for Ludwig II, King of Bavaria.

Ludwig II died before his romantic home was completed. Like the much smaller Boldt Castle in the U.S., Neuschwanstein was never completed yet remains a very popular tourist destination. Its popularity is largely based on this castle being the model for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle in Anaheim and Hong Kong and the Cinderella Castle in Disney's Orlando and Tokyo magic theme parks.

Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Crowned by the Parthenon temple, the ancient Acropolis in Athens, Greece holds some of the world's most famous architectural landmarks.

Acropolis means high city in Greek. There are many acropoleis in Greece, but the Athens Acropolis, or Citadel of Athens, is the most famous. The Acropolis in Athens was built on top of what is known as the Sacred Rock , and it was supposed to radiate power and protection for its citizens.

The Athens Acropolis is home to many important archaeological sites. The most famous is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athena. Much of the original Acropolis was destroyed in 480 BC when Persians invaded Athens. Many temples, including the Parthenon, were rebuilt during the Golden Age of Athens (460–430 BC) when Pericles was the ruler.

Phidias, a great Athenian sculptor, and two famous architects, Ictinus and Callicrates, played key roles in the reconstruction of the Acropolis. Construction on the new Parthenon began in 447 BC and was mostly completed in 438 BC.

Today, the Parthenon is an international symbol of Greek civilization and the temples of the Acropolis have become some of the world's most famous architectural landmarks. The Athens Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2007, the Athens Acropolis was designated a preeminent monument on the European Cultural Heritage list. The Greek government is working to restore and preserve the ancient structures on the Acropolis.

• Classical Architecture
• Archaeology and the Acropolis

Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain

Alhambra Palace, or the Red Castle , in Granada, Spain contains some of the world's finest examples of Moorish architecture. For many centuries, this Alhambra was neglected. Scholars and archaeologists began restorations in the nineteenth century, and today the Palace is a major tourist attraction.

Along with the Generalife summer palace in Granada, Alhambra Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Angkor, Cambodia

The world's largest complex of sacred temples, Angkor is a 154 square mile archaeological site (400 square kilometers) in the northern Cambodian province of Siem Reap. The area contains the remains of the Khmer Empire, a sophisticated civilization that prospered between the 9th and 14th centuries in Southeast Asia.

Khmer architectural ideas are thought to have originated in India, but these designs were soon mixed with Asian and local art that evolved to create what UNESCO has called "a new artistic horizon." Beautiful and ornate temples extend throughout the agricultural community that continues to live in Siem Reap. Ranging from simple brick towers to complicated stone structures, temple architecture has identified a distinct social order within the Khmer community.

Not only is Angkor one of the largest sacred temple complexes in the world, but the landscape is testament to the ancient civilization's urban planning. Water collection and distribution systems as well as routes of communication have been unearthed.

The most famous temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park are Angkor Wat—a large, symmetrical, well-restored complex surrounded by geometric canals—and the Bayon Temple, with its giant stone faces.

• Facts About the Angkor Civilization
• Facts About Angkor Wat

Source: Angkor , UNESCO World Heritage Centre [accessed January 26, 2014]

Easter Island Statues: 3 Lessons from Moai

Mysterious giant stone monoliths called Moai dot the coastline of Easter Island. The giant faces that dot the island of Rapa Nui were not chosen in the campaign to select the New 7 Wonders of the World. They are still a world wonder, however—when choosing up sides, you're not always in the top seven picked. What can we learn from these ancient statues when we compare them to other structures around the world? First, a little background:

Location : Isolated volcanic island, now owned by Chili, located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2,000 miles (3,200 km) from Chile and Tahiti Other Names : Rapa Nui; Isla de Pascua (Easter Island is the European name used to describe the inhabited island discovered on Easter Sunday in 1722 by Jacob Roggeveen) Settled : Polynesians, around 300 AD Architectural Significance : Between the 10th and 16th centuries, ceremonial shrines ( ahu ) were built and hundreds of statues ( Moai ) were erected, carved from porous, volcanic rock (scoria). Generally they face inward, toward the island, with their backs to the sea.

The Moai range in height from 2 meters to 20 meters (6.6 to 65.6 feet) and weigh many tons. They resemble enormous heads, but the Moai actually do have bodies beneath the ground. Some Moai faces were decorated with coral eyes. Archaeologists speculate that the Moai represented a god, a mythical creature, or revered ancestors that protect the island.

3 Lessons from Moai:

Yes, they are mysterious, and we may never know the real story of their existence. Scientists deduce what happened based on today's observations, because there is no written history. If only one person on the island had kept a journal, we would know a lot more about what went on. The statues of Easter Island have made us think about ourselves and others, however. What else can we learn from the Moai?

• Ownership : Who owns what architects call the built environment ? In the 1800s, several Moai were removed from the island and today are displayed in museums in London, Paris, and Washington, DC. Should the statues have stayed on Easter Island, and should they be returned? When you build something for someone else, have you given up your ownership of that idea? Architect Frank Lloyd Wright was famous for revisiting houses he had designed and getting angry at modifications made to his design. Sometimes he even hit buildings with his cane! What would the carvers of the Moai think if they saw one of their statues at the Smithsonian Museum?
• Primitive does not mean Stupid or Juvenile : One of the characters in the movie Night at the Museum is the unnamed "Easter Island Head." Instead of intelligent or spiritual dialog from the Moai, the movie's writers chose the head to utter lines such as "Hey! Dum-dum! You give me gum-gum!" Very funny? A culture with a low level of technology is disadvantaged when compared with other societies, but that doesn't make them ignorant. The people who live on what English-speakers call Easter Island have always been isolated. They inhabit the most remote land in the entire world. Their ways may be unsophisticated compared with other parts of the world, but mocking the primitive seems petty and childish.
• Progress happens step-by-step : The statues are thought to have been carved from the island's volcanic soil. Although they may look primitive, they are not very old—perhaps built between 1100 and 1680 AD, which is just 100 years before the American Revolution. During this same time period, great Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals were being built throughout Europe. The Classical forms of ancient Greece and Rome reinvented a Renaissance in architecture. Why were Europeans able to build more complex and grand buildings than the inhabitants of Easter Island? Progress happens in steps and advancement occurs when people share ideas and methods. When people traveled from Egypt to Jerusalem and from Istanbul to Rome, ideas traveled with them. Being isolated on an island makes for a slow evolution of ideas. If only they had had the Internet back then....
• Easter Island History from Archaeology
• Making the Moai of Easter Island from Archaeology
• Easter Island, Navel of the World from South American Travel
• Easter Island Geography from Geography
• Easter Island Statue Project (official site)
• History's Greatest Mysteries: Easter Island by Charles River Editors ( Buy on Amazon )
• Mystery of Easter Island , NOVA (DVD) ( Buy on Amazon )
• Tiki architecture —Almost unbelievably, the statues have been marketed to consumers as a Tiki artifact—as garden statues, light switch plates, t-shirts, and Nanoblock children's toys ( Buy on Amazon ).

Sources: Rapa Nui National Park , UNESCO World Heritage Centre, United Nations [accessed August 19, 2013]; Explore Our Collections , Smithsonian Institution [accessed June 14, 2014]

Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower in France pioneered new uses for metal construction. Today, a trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower was originally built for the 1889 World Fair to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. During construction, the Eiffel was considered an eyesore by the French, but the criticism died down once the tower was completed.

The Industrial Revolution in Europe brought about a new trend: the use of metallurgy in construction. Because of this, the engineer's role became increasingly important, in some cases rivaling that of the architect. The work of engineer, architect, and designer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel is perhaps the most famous example of this new use for metal. Eiffel's famous tower in Paris is made of puddled iron .

Learn more about Cast Iron, Wrought Iron, and Cast-Iron Architecture

Engineering the Eiffel Tower:

Rising 324 feet (1,063 meters), the Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris. For 40 years, it measured the tallest in the world. The metal lattice-work, formed with very pure structural iron, makes the tower both extremely light and able to withstand tremendous wind forces. The Eiffel Tower open to the wind, so when you stand near the top you may have the sensation that you are outside. The open structure also allows visitors to look "through" the tower - to stand in one part of the tower and look through the latticed wall or floor to another part.

• Gustave Eiffel and the Eiffel Tower
• Official Website of the Eiffel Tower
• Architecture in France

Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey (Ayasofya)

Today's grand Hagia Sophia is the third structure built on this ancient site.

• 360 AD Megale Ekklesia (Big Church) ordered by Emperor Konstantios; wooden roof burned and building destroyed during the public riots of 404 AD
• 415 AD Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom) ordered by Emperor Theodosios II; wooden roof burned and building destroyed during the public riots of 532 AD
• 537 AD ordered by Emperor Justinianos ( Flavius Justinianus ); architects Anthemios of Tralles and Isidoros of Miletus each employed 100 architects, each with 100 workers

About Justinian's Hagia Sophia, New 7 Wonders Finalist

Historic Period : Byzantine Length : 100 meters Width : 69.5 meters Height : Dome from the ground level is 55.60 meters; 31.87 meters radius North to South; 30.86 meters radius East to West Materials : white marble from Marmara Island; green porphyry from Eğriboz Island; pink marble from Afyon; yellow marble from North Africa Columns : 104 (40 in the lower and 64 in the upper); nave columns are from the Temple of Artemis in Ephessus; eight dome columns are from Egypt Structural Engineering : Pendentives Mosaics : stone, glass, terra cotta, and precious metals (gold and silver) Calligraphy Panels : 7.5 - 8 meters in diameter, said to be the largest in the Islamic world

Source: History, Hagia Sophia Museum at www.ayasofyamuzesi.gov.tr/en/tarihce.html [accessed April 1, 2013]

Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, Japan

Architecture blends with nature at Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto, Japan. The words Kiyomizu , Kiyomizu-dera or Kiyomizudera can refer to several Buddhist temples, but the most famous is the Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto. In Japanese, kiyoi mizu means pure water .

Kyoto's Kiyomizu Temple was constructed in 1633 on the foundations of a much earlier temple. A waterfall from adjacent hills tumbles into the temple complex. Leading into the temple is a wide veranda with hundreds of pillars.

Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

The Kremlin in Moscow is the symbolic and governmental center of Russia. Just outside the Kremlin Gates is St. Basil's Cathedral , also called the Cathedral of the Protection of the Mother of God. St. Basil's Cathedral is a carnival of painted onion domes in the most expressive of Russo-Byzantine traditions. St. Basil's was built between 1554 and 1560 and reflects the renewed interest in traditional Russian styles during the reign of Ivan IV (the Terrible).

Ivan IV built St. Basil's Cathedral to honor Russia's victory over the Tatars at Kazan. It is said that Ivan the Terrible had the architects blinded so that they could never again design a building so beautiful.

Cathedral Square in Moscow has some of Russia's most important architecture, including the Cathedral of the Dormition, The Archangel's Cathedral, Grand Kremlin Palace, and Terem Palace.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The most famous pyramids in Egypt are the Pyramids of Giza, built more than 2,000 years B.C. to shelter and safeguard the souls of Egyptian pharaohs. In 2007, the Pyramids were named honorary candidates in a campaign to name the New 7 Wonders of the World.

In the valley of Giza, Egypt are three large pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Kafhre, and the Pyramid of Menkaura. Each Pyramid is a tomb constructed for an Egyptian king.

Original 7 Wonders

The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest, oldest, and the best preserved of the three Pyramids. Its enormous base covers approximately nine acres (392,040 square feet). Constructed in about 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Khufu is the only surviving monument from the original 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. The other Wonders of the Ancient World were:

• The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
• The Statue of Zeus at Olympia
• The Temple of Artemus at Ephesus
• The Colossus of Rhodes
• The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
• The Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria

Statue of Liberty, New York City

Sculpted by a French artist, the Statue of Liberty is an enduring symbol of the United States. Towering over Liberty Island in New York, the Statue of Liberty is recognized around the world as a symbol of the United States. French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi designed the Statue of Liberty, which was a gift from France to the United States.

New 7 Wonders Finalist, The Statue of Liberty:

• Construction began in France in 1875.
• Ten years later in 1885, a French transport ship carried the statue to New York in 214 crates holding 350 separate pieces.
• Height: 151 feet 1 inch; Total height on pedestal: 305 feet 1 inch.
• Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel used an internal skeleton , a flexible engineering approach that allows the statue to sway several inches in strong winds.
• Weight of statue: 156 tons (31 tons of copper attached to 125 tons of framework).
• Liberty's Crown has 25 windows and 7 rays.
• Liberty's head is 10 feet wide; each eye is 2 1/2 feet wide; her nose is 4 1/2 feet long; her mouth is 3 feet wide.

The Statue of Liberty was assembled on a pedestal designed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt . The statue and pedestal were officially completed and dedicated by President Grover Cleveland on October 28, 1886.

Stonehenge in Amesbury, UK

One of the world's most famous archaeological sites, Stonehenge reveals the science and skill of a Neolithic civilization. Before recorded history, Neolithic people erected 150 huge rocks in a circular pattern on the Salisbury Plain in southern England. Most of Stonehenge was built about two thousand years before the Common Era (2000 BC). No one knows for certain why the structure was built or how a primitive society was able to raise the enormous rocks. Massive stones recently discovered in nearby Durrington Walls suggest that Stonehenge was part of a vast Neolithic landscape, much larger than previously imaged.

New 7 Wonders Finalist, Stonehenge

Location : Wiltshire, England Completed : 3100 to 1100 BC Architects : a Neolithic civilization in Britain Construction Materials : Wiltshire Sarsen sandstone and Pembroke (Wales) Bluestone

Why is Stonehenge Important?

Stonehenge is also on the UNESCO World Heritage list. UNESCO calls Stonehenge "the most architecturally sophisticated prehistoric stone circle in the world," citing these reasons:

• size of the prehistoric stones, the the largest weighs over 40 tons (80,000 pounds)
• sophisticated placement of the large stones in a concentric architectural design
• artistic shaping of the stones
• constructed with different kinds of stone
• precision of engineering, stone lintels locked horizontally in place by carved joints

Source: Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites , UNESCO World Heritage Centre, United Nations [accessed August 19, 2013].

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon , the startling shell-shaped Sydney Opera House in Australia inspires delight and controversy. Utzon began work on the Sydney Opera House in 1957, but controversy surrounded the construction. The modern expressionist building wasn't completed until 1973, under the direction of Peter Hall.

During recent years, updates and renovations to the shell-shaped theater have remained a subject of heated debate. Despite the many controversies, the Sydney Opera House is widely praised as one of the world's great landmarks. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007.

Timbuktu in Mali, West Africa

Founded by Nomads, the city of Timbuktu became legendary for its wealth. The name Timbuktu has taken on mythic meaning, suggesting a place that is very far away. The real Timbuktu lies in Mali, in West Africa. Scholars surmise that the area became an Islamic outpost at the time of the Hijra. Legend has it that an old woman named Buktu guarded the camp. The Place of Buktu or Tim-Buktu became a safe haven for the many merchants and traders supplying the architects of Gothic cathedrals with gold from West Africa. Timbuktu became a center for wealth, culture, art, and higher learning. The famous University of Sankore, founded in the fourteenth century, drew scholars from far away. Three major Islamic mosques, Djingareyber, Sankore and Sidi Yahia, made Timbuktu a great spiritual center in the region.

The splendor of Timbuktu is reflected today in Timbuktu's fascinating Islamic architecture. The mosques were important in the spread of Islam into Africa, and the threat of their "desertification" prompted UNESCO to name Timbuktu a World Heritage Site in 1988. The future held much more severe threats.

21st Century Unrest:

In 2012, Islamic radicals took control of Timbuktu and began destroying parts of its iconic architecture, reminiscent of the Taliban's destruction of Afghanistan's ancient shrines in 2001. Ansar al-Dine (AAD), an Al-Qaeda-linked group, used picks and axes to tear down the door and wall area of the famous Sidi Yahia mosque. Ancient religious belief warned that opening the door would bring calamity and devastation. Ironically, AAD devastated the mosque to prove that the world would not end if the door opened.

The region remains unstable for the casual visitor. The U.s. Department of State has designated AAD a Foreign Terrorist Organization and as of 2014 travel warnings remain in place for the region. The historic preservation of the ancient architecture seems to be controlled by whoever is in power.

• Fleeing Islamists leave legacy of destruction in Timbuktu by Pascal Fletcher and Giles Elgood, Reuters , January 29, 2013
• The Legend of Timbuktu
• Splendor in Medieval Africa

Sources: UNESCO/CLT/WHC ; Islamists destroy 15th-century Timbuktu mosque , The Telegraph , July 3, 2012; Mali Travel Warning , U.S. Dept. of State, March 21, 2014 [accessed July 1, 2014]

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The New Seven Wonders of the World

In the second century BC, the outstanding Greek engineer, physicist, and writer Philo of Byzantium compiled a list of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World . Amazing works of art and designs have become monuments to man’s immense ingenuity, imagination, and hard work.

However, most of them did not withstand the test of time. Millennia later, the Great Pyramid of Giza stands as the sole surviving monument among the original wonders.

This led to the creation of a modern list of New Seven Wonders of the World, which included surviving architectural monuments from different eras.

The initiative to compile a contemporary list was started in 2000, when a Switzerland-based foundation launched a campaign to determine the New Seven Wonders of the World. Monuments were chosen from two hundred existing ones using a survey on the internet and via telephone. The poll turned out to be very large-scale, and one hundred million people took part in it. The final results were announced in Lisbon in 2007.

New Seven Wonders of the World

• Petra, Jordan

Designated a World Heritage Site in 1985, Jordan’s ancient city of Petra nestles in a secluded valley enclosed by cliffs. The city holds a legendary status as the site where Moses believed to struck a rock and water flowed out. Subsequently, the Nabataeans established it as their thriving capital, fostering robust trade in aromatic spices. Proficient in stone carving, the Nabataeans sculpted dwellings, temples, and tombs from sandstone that displayed a vibrant array of hues when exposed to sunlight. They engineered a sophisticated water system comprising intricate tunnels and reservoirs, fostering flourishing gardens.

Despite its height of prosperity with a population of approximately 30,000, Petra’s significance dwindled as trade routes shifted over time. Devastated by a significant earthquake in 363 AD, Petra gradually fell into abandonment. Rediscovered in 1912, the city received scant attention from archaeologists until the latter half of the 20th century, leaving numerous enigmas regarding its past unresolved.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

Hidden in the lush jungle of the Peruvian Andes, the ruins of Machu Picchu, also known as the “lost city of the Incas ,” are surrounded on three sides by the rushing Urubamba River.

Founded in the 1400s, Machu Picchu served as the royal residence of Emperor Pachacutec and remained hidden for centuries until it was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. It was initially believed that this was Vilcabamba, a secret Incan citadel, but subsequent research has refuted this claim. This makes the true purpose of Machu Picchu a subject of scientific debate.

The city, located at an altitude of 9,840 ft, is believed to have thrived on corn, potatoes and other crops. Around 1532, the city’s inhabitants started to abandon Machu Picchu, leaving behind an architectural legacy that continues to fascinate historians and visitors alike.

3. Great Wall of China

Spanning over two millennia, construction on the Great Wall of China , designed as defense against Mongol raids, began in the 7th century BC. This monumental structure, despite its name, is composed of two parallel walls, partitioned into sections, and adorned with a series of watchtowers and barracks. Extending across an astounding length of 5,499 miles, it stands as the world’s longest human-made edifice.

While the primary purpose of the Great Wall was defense, it served other critical functions as well. It facilitated border controls, allowing the imposition of tariffs on goods traversing the Silk Road and regulating trade and migration. Additionally, the defensive attributes were fortified by the inclusion of watchtowers, troop barracks, garrisons, and signaling mechanisms using smoke or fire. In 1987, this new wonder of the world was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nowadays, references to this wall can be found in the national anthem of China .

4. Chichen Itza, Mexico

Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza was established in the 7th century AD as a religious center. The site’s prominent landmarks include a massive sports field, an astronomical observatory, and the 79-ft-high El Castillo step pyramid. It features 365 steps, representing the days of the year, showcasing the Mayans’ advanced astronomical knowledge.

During specific equinoxes, the pyramid creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the structure’s staircase, adding a mystical touch to the city’s historical significance. In addition, Chichen Itza boasts the largest tlachtli, a type of sports field, in the Americas.

5. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Standing majestically atop Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, the colossal statue of Christ the Redeemer, with outstretched arms spanning 92 ft, serves as a symbol of faith and hope for Brazil. Constructed between 1926 and 1931, the statue, standing 98 ft tall excluding its base, is renowned as the largest Art Deco sculpture globally. Covered in around six million tiles, the statue has faced challenges, including lightning strikes that damaged its right thumb during a storm in 2014.

This new Brazilian wonder provides breathtaking views of Rio’s iconic landscapes, including the Maracana stadium and the Sugarloaf peak.

6. The Colosseum, Italy

The English monk Venerable Bede said: “While the Colosseum stands, Rome shall stand; when the Colosseum falls, Rome shall fall; when Rome falls, the world shall fall.” The significance of this monument not only for Italy  but for the whole world cannot be overestimated.

Ordered by Emperor Vespasian in the first century, the Colosseum in Rome stands as a marvel of engineering, boasting dimensions of 620 by 513 feet and an intricate vaulting system. With a seating capacity of fifty thousand, the amphitheater hosted a variety of events from gladiator battles and animal fights to elaborate naval simulations.

Serving as a center for public spectacles, the Colosseum drew crowds for gladiatorial contests, staged hunts, and executions, with reenacted battle scenes and simulated naval warfare adding to its diverse repertoire. Though ravaged by earthquakes and looting over the centuries, sections of the historic structure remain accessible to tourists.

7. Taj Mahal, India

Taj Mahal (📸©️puneetyadav/IG) pic.twitter.com/aDH6bgi2Y8 — Miscelánea🍀 (@MissCelaneaOne) October 26, 2023

Situated in Agra, India , this mausoleum complex stands as a pinnacle of Mughal architecture and a globally recognized icon. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this structure to commemorate his late wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away while giving birth to their fourteenth child. Over the course of two decades, around twenty thousand laborers constructed the monumental site, which boasts a garden and a palace-reflecting pool.

The mausoleum’s intricate embellishments, featuring patterns of semiprecious stones, are meticulously crafted on its gleaming white marble structure. According to legend, Shah Jahan aspired to construct a second mausoleum out of black marble for himself. The plan that was thwarted when he was overthrown by his own son.

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World History Edu

• New Seven Wonders of the World

New Seven Wonders of the World: Definition, Selection, History, & Significance

by World History Edu · October 24, 2022

Over the course of history, from ancient to contemporary times, human beings and civilizations have built some of the most breathtaking and amazing architectural pieces, statues, and cities reminiscent of the eras they lived in. These structures are so magnificent, filled with rich culture and history, and are so unique that they are named the Wonders of the World.

History of the Wonders of the World

For as long as civilizations have been around, many groups of people have been fascinated with rare and beautiful structures and spent their lives searching and observing some of the world’s best natural and man-made wonders. From as far back as the 5th century BC, Hellenic travelers and scholars depended on lists created by renowned Greek historians like Herodotus and Callimachus of Cyrene to know which ancient sights and wonders to visit. As a result, the initial list was named the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World”, and these structures were:

• The Great Pyramid of Giza , Egypt
• Colossus of Rhodes , Greece
• Hanging Gardens of Babylon
• Lighthouse of Alexandria , Egypt
• Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, The Achaemenid Empire (modern-day Western Asia)
• Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Greece and
• Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (modern-day Turkey)

Reasons for making a list of the New Seven Wonders of the World

New Seven Wonders of the World – History and Facts

With time, many of these structures fell apart, and by the 20th century, the Great Pyramid of Giza was the only structure standing. Asides that, the initial wonders of the ancient world were not inclusive of other regions worldwide, as they were mostly situated in the Mediterranean and Asian regions. These factors necessitated the need for a more relevant, diverse, and contemporary list.

Selection Criteria

In the year 2000, a Switzerland-based company called The New Seven Wonders Foundation launched a campaign to modify the list of the world wonders. The foundation released a set of rules guiding the selection of the next set of structures:

• They had to have been built before the year 2000
• They had to have been built by humans
• The structures needed to have architectural or artistic value, and
• The structures needed to have been well-preserved.

After over 100 million global votes were cast, the foundation announced the Seven New Wonders of the World in 2007. These were:

• Machu Picchu , Peru
• Chichén Itza, Mexico
• Petra, Jordan
• Taj Mahal , India
• The Colosseum , Italy
• The Great Wall of China
• Christ the Redeemer , Brazil

Not only did these structures meet the foundation’s requirements, but they were also located in various regions worldwide. The Great Pyramid of Giza, the last surviving structure of the first list, received an honorary status.

Machu Picchu

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Machu Picchu caught the world’s attention in the second decade of the 20th century when it was re-discovered.

Machu Picchu is perhaps the most famous landmarks of modern-day Peru, as well as one of the finest examples of the excellent structural engineering and craftsmanship of the Incas. This fortified city was built high up in the Peruvian Andes mountains at an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet in the 15th century, which was a period during which the Incas were at the peak of civilization.

According to contemporary archaeologists, Machu Picchu was believed to have been built for the emperor, Pachacuti. The entire structure was built out of dry-stone walls, with some of its notable constructions being the Inhituatana (a ritual stone that the Incas used as a clock and calendar), the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of Three Windows.

Read More:  10 Major Accomplishments of the Inca Civilization

About 300-1000 people, comprising workers and members of Inca’s noble class, lived at Machu Picchu for close to a century before the Spanish embarked on their conquest of South America. When the Spanish arrived, they destroyed several Incan structures and built Catholic churches over them. However, the reason why Machu Picchu exists is because the Spanish never found it! Apart from it being built in a deeply remote region of Peru and shrouded in vegetation, it is believed that the Incas burned down some of its structures and pathways to reduce the city’s visibility.

It wasn’t until the early 1900s that it was accidentally re-discovered by Harvard professor and explorer, Hiram Bingham. In modern times, much of Machu Picchu remains covered in vegetation as a means to protect the structure. The Peruvian government also declared the area a “no-fly” zone to prevent further damage.

Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers some of the most incredible bird’s eye views of much of Southern Peru.

Chichén Itza

In the ancient years, Chichén Itza was a lively city that served as a home to some 35,000 Mayans, located in Yucatán, Mexico. This city is believed to been constructed about over 1,500 years, with settlers first arriving in the area as far back as 540 AD. Some of the earlier structures built included a church, nunnery, and an observatory.

Historians believed that the Itza, also known as foreigners, arrived between 200-300 years and invaded Chichén. The Itzas built El Castillo, a 98 feet tall pyramid. It is believed that the 365 steps on the pyramid reflected the 365 days of the Mayan calendar. However, visitors are not allowed to climb the pyramid. Other notable features of the Chichén Itza include one of the largest sports arenas worldwide, as well as the Temple of Warriors and the Osario Pyramid.

By the time of the Spanish conquest, Chichén had long since been abandoned and many Mayans were living in small towns. Nonetheless, it’s no secret why this city is regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World as it has some of the most detailed relics and histories of the Mayan people.

Heartbroken by the death of his beloved wife Mumtaz, Emperor Shah Jahan set out to build the world’s greatest tomb in her honor. Construction of mausoleum began in 1632. In 1983, the United Nations designated it as a World Heritage site.

The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly one of India’s most notable landmarks. Located on the right bank of the river Yamuna in the Indian city of Agra, the Taj is also considered as the perfect representation of Indo-Islamic culture and India’s rich history.

This structure was fully constructed in 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan to honor his wife Mumtaz who passed away (in 1631) while birthing their 14th child. The royal consort is said to have died from postpartum hemorrhage in Burhanpur in the present day Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.

By 1653, building extensions like the mosque, courtyards, and a guest house were also added to the magnificent building.

Along with being known as a symbol of the great love Shah Jahan had for his wife, the Taj Mahal is also a sign of his immense wealth and power. The construction of this landmark is one of the most expensive in history.

At that time of constructing the Taj, it cost about 32 million rupees to build, which could roughly be over $1 billion in modern times. Over 20,000 artisans were employed to construct the Taj Mahal.

Since its construction, the Taj, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has attracted millions of visitors, including foreign dignitaries like Princess Diana , U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower , and former U.S. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

From 400 B.C. to 106 A.D., the bustling city of Petra served as a trading center and capital of the Nabatean Empire. For many centuries the city remained abandoned until a traveler in the 19 th century intruded the area disguised in Bedouin costume. The ancient city is also known as Rose City because of the reddish color of the stones used in construction.

Petra is located in modern-day Jordan and was founded by the Nabateans, who were a group of hard-working Arabs that settled in what is today’s Jordan over 2000 years ago. Back then, Petra was known for its rich culture, stunning stone architectures, and complex irrigation system, a remarkable feat since Petra was constructed in a barren desert.

One of Petra’s most notable features is The Treasury, which famously appeared in Stephen Spielberg’s 1989 blockbuster, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, which starred Denholm Elliott, Harrison Ford, and Sean Connery.

Petra remained relatively unknown to the world until the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt re-discovered the city in 1812. It’s no surprise that Petra is Jordan’s most-visited tourist attractions and landmarks, attracting several millions of enthusiastic tourists every year.

In the Roman times, the Colosseum primarily served as an entertainment hub, hosting chariot races, gladiatorial games, and staged reenactments of ancient battles. It was also used to stage important dramas and other theatrical shows. Public executions of prisoners also took place in the Colosseum.

The Colosseum, a large amphitheater built by Emperor Vespasian around 70-72 A.D. is located in Rome, Italy. Vespasian’s son, Emperor Titus , opened the Colosseum in 80 A.D. and its first 100 days included chariot racing, gladiator and animal fights that thrilled the Romans.

Standing imposingly tall at 620 x 513 feet, this structure was easily the largest amphitheater in the Roman Empire. Built out of stone and concrete, it was designed to seat over 50,000 Roman spectators. Most of the gladiators that fought during that period were usually enslaved men, criminals or war prisoners. There were also female gladiators.

The fights at the Colosseum, whether between gladiators, animals, or even animals and gladiators, were gruesome. There were lots of deaths in the years that the structure was active and over 400,000 people and 1,000,000 animals died during that period. Gladiators at that time were taught to learn how to die with honor.

The Romans used the Colosseum for over 400 years, however, its popularity started to decline as other forms of public entertainment were introduced. Over time, about two-thirds of the structure deteriorated due to natural disasters and neglect. Nonetheless, it remains an iconic symbol of Italy and still receives millions of visitors every year.

Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is likely to be the world’s best ancient military defense mechanisms of all time. This long and winding wall covers a large expanse of China, from the east to west, starting from Shanhaiguan in Hebei to Jiayuguan in Gansu, making it the world’s largest man-made structure.

The entire structure includes features like watch towers, walls, horse tracks, and fortresses. The length of the wall is 13,170.7 miles, which is half of the earth’s equator!

Before the Great Wall was constructed, many Chinese rulers had already begun building walls to protect their lands from invaders. In 220 B.C., while China was under Emperor Qin Shi Huang , he came up with the idea of uniting all the walls together into one large structure. Over the years, with advanced technologies, the wall was continuously upgraded and fortified with stronger building materials.

Read More: Major Accomplishments of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China

Despite the wall’s imposing length, it did not prevent China from getting attacked and invaded. In contemporary times, it has become China’s most famous monument and is open to tourists year-round.

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is the fourth biggest statue of Jesus Christ in the world. The 98-foot-tall monument is located at the peak of Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

In the 1850s, a priest had the idea to place a monument depicting the Christian faith at the top of Mount Corcovado. He initially sought help from the Brazilian royal family, but the idea was rejected after Brazil was declared a republic in 1889 since the church and state were no longer united.

However, after the First World War , the Roman Catholic Church and other concerned locals placed the statue of Jesus Christ at the summit of the mountain in a bid to increase religious faith in Brazil and bring back many of the locals to Christianity.

At that time, it cost about a quarter of a million USD to construct the statue, and it was funded by the Brazilian Catholic Church. Heitor da Silva Costa, who was an engineer, created the initial sketches while Roman artist, Gheorghe Leonida designed the statue’s face. The massive statue was assembled at the top of Mount Corcovado. As the country’s most popular and iconic cultural landmarks, it continues to be one of Brazil’s biggest tourist sites, as millions of people make their way to the top of Corcovado each year.

Criticisms of the New Seven Wonders of the World

The selection of the New Seven Wonders of the World was met with much criticism and dissenting views. Firstly, its voting method was deemed unscientific, as it allowed people to cast an unlimited number of votes.

The entire campaign also drew up a lot of mixed reactions from different countries, with some of them actively campaigning for votes whereas others remained nonchalant or criticized the entire exercise.

The Egyptian government, for example, heavily criticized the entire challenge and accused The New Seven Wonders Foundation of using the votes for profit. Although the foundation identifies as a non-profit organization, its parent company, New Open World Corporation operates as commercial business entity.

As a result, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), having initially lent their support to the campaign and acting as advisors on nominee selections, decided to pull out, especially since the activity went against its by-laws of ensuring that world heritage sites received equal status.

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The New Seven Wonders Of The World

From chichen itza to the taj mahal, the new seven wonders of the world represent the magnificent man-made marvels of the modern era..

In 2001, the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation conducted an international poll to update the seven Wonders of the Ancient World to the new seven Wonders of the World.

After more than 100 million votes and international campaigns, the finalists were announced on July 7th, 2007. From Mexico to India, the new wonders of the world represent the magnificent man-made marvels of the modern day:

The New Seven Wonders Of The World: Chichen Itza, Mexico

With a name meaning “At the mouth of the well of Itza”, Chichen Itza is the ruins of a Mayan civilization, dating back to about 600 AD.

It served as a political and economic center and housed magnificent buildings including, temples (including Temple of Warriors and Temple of Chac Mool), the Hall of the Thousand Pillars and the last Mayan temple, the pyramid of Kulkulkan. The site fell into disrepair over the centuries through various invasions, looting and abandonment.

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Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

The iconic statue of Jesus Christ, standing atop Corcovado Mountain that overlooks Rio de Janeiro, is the symbol of peace, warmth and welcoming nature of the Brazilian people. It was designed by Heitor da Silva Costa, sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski and completed in 1931 after five years of construction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A22DvXLCJmo

The Colosseum, Italy

The mother of all sports stadiums, the Colosseum in Rome was built between 70 and 82 AD. At its height, the amphitheater could seat up to 50,000 spectators, who enjoyed various public spectacles including the infamous gladiator fights, animal hunts, executions and dramas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOylD1KC6kc

The site was partially ruined after an earthquake, but still stands today as a testament to the prowess of Imperial Rome.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abG-_Oen8oU

The New Seven Wonders Of The World: Great Wall of China, China

The 4,000 mile brick wall was erected to fortify the northern borders of the Chinese Empire against Mongol invasion. Construction first began in 8th century BC and the majority was completed during the Ming Dynasty between 1368 and 1644 AD.

Machu Picchu, Peru

One of the lost cities of the world, Machu Picchu is an awe-inspiring ruin of the Inca civilization. Check out our previous post on panaromic views from the top of Machu Picchu .

Petra, Jordan

Another lost city of the world, Petra dates back to the 6th century BC, when it was the capital city of the Nabataens, the masters of water technology. The stone-cut architecture, which survived centuries, makes it one of the most fascinating and beautiful sites in the world.

Videos Of Petra, Jordan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0Z6XkKryD4

The New Seven Wonders Of The World: Taj Mahal, India

The majestic Taj Mahal in Agra is the most epic display of love in history. Emperor Shah Jahan built the marble mausoleum in 1630 AD to honor the memory of his deceased wife.

After its construction, legends insist the architect responsible for the design had his hands cut off so that he couldn’t create anything similar ever again. The Taj Mahal is considered the best representation of Muslim art in India and one of the new wonders of the world.

Videos About The Taj Mahal

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBHalkJ81X4

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New 7 Wonders of the World

New 7 Wonders of the World – the decision is yours

“Our heritage is our future”. With this premise, the “New Seven Wonders Club” has created the first-ever global poll to elect the New Seven Wonders of the World. After 19 millions of online votes, last January the 21 finalist were announced.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

These are, in alphabetical order, the 21 candidates to become the “New 7 wonders” of our World. I’ve also add a little, personal commentary about its possible inclusion in such a sumptuous list.

-Acropolis (Athens, Greece) – OK, this is a “must”. The quintessence of the Classic World.

– Alhambra Palace (Granada , Spain) – Well, perhaps. It’s as “wonderful” as you can expect, the Moorish magic at its very best and also very well preserved, but perhaps lacks of a bit “magnificence”. Doubtful.

-Angkor (Cambodia) – Yes, why not? Although it’s not as famous in the Western World as some other sites of this list, this exceptional building/city is magnificence and extremely important.

-Chitchen Itza, Mexico) – Probably. Mayan capital between 750 – 1200 a .c., one of the most important heritage sites of the World.

-Christ Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) – Absolutely NOT. Though impressive in size, this is surely not one of the new seven wonders.

-Colosseum (Rome, Italy) – Probably. A Roman monument must be on this list, but. why this and not the Pantheon? Nevertheless, it’s impressive and important enough to be taken into account.

-Easter Island Statues (Chile) – Well, I’ve never seen them, so I can’t opine.

– Eiffel Tower (Paris, France) – NO. It’s an extremely important building, but not a “wonder”. Sorry, because Paris is perhaps my favourite city.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

-Great Wall of China (China) – YES. Absolutely. Arguably the most impressive human work ever made.

Great Wall, China

-Hagia Sophia (Istanbul , Turkey ) – Mmmm. When I travelled to Istanbul I immediately fell in love with it, but I admit that it cannot be compared, at least in terms of magnificence, with such impressive buildings as the Great Wall or Machu Picchu . It’s an extremely important and impressive building, of course, Byzantium at its best, but, well, choose by yourself. Probably.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

– Kyozimu Temple , Kyoto (Japan) – I don’t know. I haven’t seen it, so you tell me.

-Kremlin and Red Square (Moscow , Russia) – NO. Just a historical building, not a wonder.

– Machu Picchu (Peru) – Yes. Arguably the most fabulous pre-Columbian site, and surely a “must” for the list.

Machu Picchu , Peru

– Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany). NO. Extremely beautiful, but no more.

– Petra (Jordan). Well, perhaps. Perhaps not. Err… what do you think about it?

-Pyramids of Giza (Egypt) YES. OF COURSE. ABSOLUTELY

-Statue of Liberty (New York). Absolutely NOT. See what we say about the Eiffel Tower .

-Stonehenge (England) Probably. Mysterious, historical importance. Perhaps lacks a bit of “greatness” but I bet for its inclusion. Primitive magic.

Stonehenge, England

-Sydney Opera House (Australia) Absolutely NOT. A great modern building. Just it.

-Taj Mahal (Agra , India) I have my doubts. It’s extremely beautiful and even historical important, but perhaps lacks a bit of historical greatness. Well, can be.

– Timbuktu (Mali ) A doubtful NO. Surely deserves to be in the 21 list, but I have my doubts about its inclusion in the “7 list”. OK, choose by yourself.

ABOUT THE “OLD” SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD

The seven wonders of the Ancient World, as compiled by Philo of Byzantium in 200 b.c are:

-The Great Pyramid of Giza ( Egypt ) is the only one “old wonder” that still exist. It was completed around 2650 b.c.

-The Lighthouse of Alexandria ( Egypt ) was built on the 3 rd century b.c. It was destroyed by an earthquake in the 13 th century.

-The Temple of Diana at Ephesus (Ancient Greece) built on the 4 th century b.c. was destroyed by the Goths in 262 a .c.

-The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus (Asia Minor) was also destroyed, although remains of its structure are shown on the British Museum

-The Hanging gardens of Babylon were built by King Nebuchadnezzar to please his wife, around 650-600 b.c.

-The Colossus at Rhodes was a giant, 105 feet tall statue built by the sculptor Chares, and destroyed by an earthquake in the 3 rd century b.c.

-The Statue of Zeus at Olympia , built by the famous sculptor Phidias has also been lost.

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The Seven (New) Wonders of the World

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Nearly 100 million Internet and phone voters have selected seven new Wonders of the World. AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Nearly 100 million Internet and phone voters have selected seven new Wonders of the World. The new sites are (from top left) the Great Wall of China, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the centuries-old pink ruins of Petra in Jordan, India's Taj Mahal, the statue of Christ overlooking Rio de Janeiro, the Colosseum in Rome and the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru.

Several years ago, people around the world were asked to nominate new sites for the Seven Wonders of the World. Nearly 100 million votes were cast, and the results were announced Saturday. The newly selected sites include the Great Wall of China, the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico, the centuries-old pink ruins of Petra in Jordan, India's Taj Mahal, the statue of Christ overlooking Rio de Janeiro, the Colosseum in Rome and the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru.

Don George, creator and host, Don's Place travel Web site; editor, RECCE: Literary Journeys for the Discerning Traveler

Web Resources

The 7 Wonders Of The World

Over 2000 years ago, Greek travelers compiled a list of the most incredible marvels they encountered, which would become famously known as The Seven Ancient Wonders of the World . However, with the Pyramids of Giza being the only original survivor, a Swiss organization decided to take matters into its own hands and update the list. In 2001, New7Wonders Foundation asked the public which places they thought were the world’s biggest wonders. After more than 100 million votes and deliberation between 200 potential candidates, these seven became the victors.

The 7 New Wonders Of The World

The Great Wall of China

In Northern China , the Great Wall of China is one of the largest construction projects recorded in human history. Despite popular belief, the Great Wall cannot be seen by the naked eye from outer space. While estimates of its length vary, China’s National Administration of Cultural Heritage reports the wall to be an impressive 13,170 miles (21,195 kilometers) long. Walking the entire wall nonstop would take approximately 17 months! Some work on the wall dates back to the 7th century BCE, although the Ming Dynasty constructed the principal, most well-preserved parts between 1368 and 1644. Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China is not a singular, connected wall. It actually consists of numerous walls, some parallel for stretches, accompanied by watch towers and platforms. China built the Great Wall to better protect its northern border, although its effectiveness is debated. The Great Wall has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. Today, over 10 million tourists visit the wall every year. Visitors can easily access it from Beijing.

Chichén Itzá

Situated in Yucatan , Mexico , Chichén Itzá was a city built by the Mayan people . The first settlements in the city began in approximately 435-600 CE, while the city would become abandoned hundreds of years later in 1250 CE. The Mayan tribe, Itzá, was responsible for many of the structures built in this city. The most well-known pyramid in Chichén Itza is El Castillo, a four-sided pyramid that is 185 feet (55.5 meters) wide and 78 feet (24 meters) tall. Impressively, the pyramid has 365 steps, each step representing a day of the year. During the spring and fall equinoxes, a shadow forms on the temple’s north stairway, creating the illusion of a slithering serpent. Today, 26 ruins still stand in Chichén Itzá, and approximately 2.5 million people visit the site every year. Most visitors travel from Cancun or the Rivera Maya to see Chichén Itzá.

Petra, Jordan , is an ancient city whose buildings are carved into pink, red, and white sandstone cliffs. It is one of the oldest existing cities in the world and stretches over 100 square miles (259 square kilometers). The Nabateans founded it in approximately the fourth century, chiseling temples, dwellings, and tombs in the stone. The Nabateans also had very advanced infrastructure, creating an impressive irrigation system of dams , canals, and reservoirs that provided water for over 30,000 participants in the otherwise arid zone. Some remnants of this irrigation system are still visible today. Visitors may recognize the ancient city from Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, which filmed several scenes there. Petra became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, and currently, around 900,000 people visit it annually.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an Incan ancient ruins site located in the Andes Mountains , near the city of Cusco, Peru . Built in approximately 1450 CE, the Incans used very impressive drystone techniques, snuggly fitting together jagged stones like jigsaw pieces. Thanks to this intricate building technique, many of the structures continue to stand to this day. Peruvian farmer Agustín Lizárraga was the first recorded individual to discover Machu Picchu in 1902. However, Herman Bingham brought it to the attention of the Western world in 1911 with his discovery of it. There are many theories about the reasons for Machu Picchu’s construction. Some scholars believe that Machu Picchu was a holy convent known as “Virgins of the Sun” for women who were dedicated to the Incan sun god, Inti. Other theories include the city being a royal retreat for the Emporer Pachacuti or being a trading hub or location to test new crops. In 1983, Machu Picchu became a UNESCO World Heritage site, and today, approximately 1.5 million people visit it each year.

Christ the Redeemer

Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , Christ the Redeemer is a massive, 98-foot (30-meter) tall statue made of concrete and soapstone. It is the youngest of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Princess Isabel introduced the concept when she requested that an image of Jesus Christ be erected in 1888, honoring Brazil's abolition of slavery. The Roman Catholic archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro re-proposed the idea in 1921, receiving approval from President Epitácio Pessoa shortly after. It opened to the public ten years later, in 1931. Around 2 million people visit the site every year.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum in Rome, Italy , is the largest amphitheater built in human history and is composed mainly of concrete, limestone, and wood. Emperor Vespasian, who wanted a space for Romans to seek entertainment, ordered the construction. This construction began around 72 CE and was completed in 80 CE. The Colosseum, at 620 by 513 feet (189 by 156 meters), could seat up to 50,000 viewers. Most events in The Colosseum were violent in nature, largely consisting of gladiator fights, public executions, and animal hunts. Between gladiators, prisoners, slaves, convicts, and other entertainers, an estimated 400,000 people died during the 350 years in which The Colosseum hosted events. It became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980. Over 4 million people visit The Colosseum annually.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal , situated in Agra, India , is an impressive mausoleum considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings constructed by mankind and a key example of Islamic art. In 1632, Emperor Shah Jahān ordered it to be built in honor of his wife, who died during the childbirth of their 14th child. About 20,000 workers were involved in the construction process, which lasted until about 1648. The complex also included an expansive garden and a reflecting pool. The mausoleum consists of white marble and semiprecious stones that form intricate floral and geometric patterns. Shah Jahān additionally had the marble designed to have a pink tint in the morning and a gold tint in the moonlight. Jahān and his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal, were both buried in the building after. In 1983, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 7 to 8 million people visit the Taj Mahal every year.

While the Pyramids of Giza is the only survivor from the original Ancient Wonders list, the new additions to the roster showcase humankind’s innovation and ingenuity throughout the centuries. Not only do the New Wonders exhibit physical diversity, but each one shares a unique background and history that contributed to its creation. As we marvel at the Great Wall of China, the intricate structures of Petra, and the architectural magnificence of the Taj Mahal, we are left to ponder: will future generations witness the emergence of new world wonders?

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(CNN) -- The new seven wonders of the world were named Saturday following an online vote that generated server-crushing traffic in its final hours.

The Great Wall of China was among the top vote-getters of the "New 7 Wonders of the World" project.

The final tally produced this list of the world's top human-built wonders:

• The Great Wall of China

• Petra in Jordan

• Brazil's statue of Christ the Redeemer

• Peru's Machu Picchu

• Mexico's Chichen Itza pyramid

• The Colosseum in Rome

• India's Taj Mahal

Voting at the Web site, www.new7wonders.com, ended at 6 p.m. ET Friday. Traffic was so heavy Friday that the site was crashing at times.

One message urged voters to use text messages as an alternative form of voting. "Keep on voting, as it is your votes that decide the New 7 Wonders of the World," the message said.

"We have traffic that is simply off the scale," Tia Vering, spokeswoman for the "New 7 Wonders of the World" campaign, told CNN.com. "Things are just going ballistic."

The new wonders were announced at a star-studded event Saturday in Lisbon, Portugal, that featured performances by Jennifer Lopez and Chaka Khan. The event was hosted by Oscar winners Hilary Swank and Ben Kingsley as well as Bollywood star Bipasha Basu. Send CNN.com photos and video of your favorite "wonder"

The top contenders for the seven wonders were last made public in early June.

The oldest candidate was Britain's Stonehenge; the newest was Australia's Sydney Opera House. The U.S. Statue of Liberty also was among the choices.

Voting nearly doubled after the June results, when organizers said about 50 million votes had been cast. A single user can cast multiple votes.

To be considered for the competition, all structures had to be built or discovered before 2000. All are among top tourist attractions around the world.

Of the seven ancient wonders of the world, only one remains standing today, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

• New 7 Wonders campaign
• TIME.com: Photo essay

Some nations have enthusiastically endorsed the new wonders campaign. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Jordan's Queen Rania actively promoted their countries' hopefuls.

But the new wonders campaign hasn't been universally recognized. The United Nations' cultural organization, UNESCO , issued a statement saying it has "no link whatsoever" to the vote.

Egypt's top antiquities expert also objected to the list. He said Egypt's pyramids are a "symbol of the genius of the ancient people" -- and are above any sort of online poll.

As a result, the organizers struck up a compromise. The pyramids have been assured honorary status, in addition to the new seven wonders.

The new wonders project was the brainchild of Swiss businessman Bernard Weber. He said he wanted to invite the people of the world to take part in selecting the world's greatest wonders.

"So that everybody can decide what the new seven wonders should be and not some government, not some individuals, not some institutions," he said.

Vering said she believes the vote has accomplished that goal.

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Wonders of the World

By Natalie Proulx

• Dec. 7, 2017

Have you ever been to any of the “new Seven Wonders of the World” — the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal, Petra, the Colosseum, Christ the Redeemer, Chichén Itzá or Machu Picchu? Which, if any, would you like to travel to someday?

In your opinion, what should distinguish a place as a “wonder” of the world? What sites would you put on the list?

Tell us in the comments, then read the related article to learn more about these architectural marvels.

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Essay on “The New Seven Wonders of the World” for School, College Students, Long and Short English Essay, Speech for Class 10, Class 12, College and Competitive Exams.

The New Seven Wonders of the World

The new Seven Wonders of the World were announced in July 2007. They are Taj Mahal of India, Christ Redeemer of Brazil, the Great Wall of China, Roman Colosseum of Italy, Petra of Jordan, Pyramid at Chichen Itza of Mexico and Machu Picchu of Peru. These sites were selected on a tally of around 100 million votes cast by people around the world over the Internet and mobile text messages.

The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Mughal Emperor Shahjahan constructed it in 1631 as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The construction work began after the death of Queen in 1632. It was completed in 1648. The monument is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture. The white marble mausoleum is the most familiar part of the monument. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the monument is quoted as, The jewel of Muslim art in India’. It is one of the universally admired masterpieces. It is a symbol of love and has stood for centuries as an example of most beautiful human emotion.

The Christ Redeemer is the statue of Jesus. It was inaugurated in 1931. It stands 125 feet tall on the Corcovado Mountain overlooking the Brazilian capital of Rio de Janerio. It was built by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa. It took five years to build the statue. It is made of strong concrete. Its outer layers are made from soapstone helping it to resist extreme weather. This statue is one of world’s best-known monuments, which is now being included in the Seven Wonders of the World.

The Great Wall of China was built over 2200 years ago by the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huandi during the Qin dynasty in 220 BC. It is the largest building ever constructed by man. It stretches across the mountains of northern China, curving north and northwest of Beijing. It is constructed of masonry rocks and packed earth. It is about 5,000 kilometers long, with thickness ranging from 4.5 to 9 meters and height up to 7.5 meters.

The Colosseum is one of the most famous buildings of Rome. Its construction was initiated by the Emperor in around 72 AD. Later his son resigned over its completion.

Petra of Jordan is yet another one of the Seven Wonders of the World. On the edge of Arabian Desert, Petra was the magnificent capital of the Nabataea Empire. It is famous for having many stone structures carved into the rock. In 1812, the long-hidden site was revealed to the western world by the Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt.

Another of the seven wonders is the sacred city of Itza, called Chichen Itza. It is located in Maya, Mexico. This archaeological site is rated among the most important of the Maya Culture displays. It covers an area of approximately 6 square miles where hundreds of buildings once stood. Today, thirty of them may still be seen by tourists.

Finally, the ruins of Machu Picchu, rediscovered in 1911 by archaeologist Hiram Bingham, arc the most beautiful and mysterious ancient sites in the world. It is said that Machu Picchu was reserved as a sacred place from earlier times. One of its functions was that of astronomical observatory.

These new seven wonders of the world are the most popular sites in the world. Millions of tourists go to see them every year. However, the inclusion of Taj Mahal as the most photographed monument in the world has enhanced India’s prestige and glory in the world.

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Arabian historical and archaeological city, Jordan

One of the New 7 Wonders of the World

Ma'an governorate, jordan.

Petra (Arabic: البتراء, Al-Batrāʾ ; Ancient Greek: Πέτρα), originally known to the Nabataeans as Raqmu , is a historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan. The city is famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Another name for Petra is the Rose City due to the color of the stone out of which it is carved.

Established possibly as early as 312 BC as the capital city of the Arab Nabataeans, it is a symbol of Jordan, as well as Jordan’s most-visited tourist attraction. The Nabateans were nomadic Arabs who benefited from the proximity of Petra to the regional trade routes, in becoming a major trading hub, thus enabling them to gather wealth. The Nabateans are also known for their great ability in constructing efficient water collecting methods in the barren deserts and their talent in carving structures into solid rocks. It lies on the slope of Jebel al-Madhbah (identified by some as the biblical Mount Hor) in a basin among the mountains which form the eastern flank of Arabah (Wadi Araba), the large valley running from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba. Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

The site remained unknown to the western world until 1812, when it was introduced by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. It was described as “a rose-red city half as old as time” in a Newdigate Prize-winning poem by John William Burgon. UNESCO has described it as “one of the most precious cultural properties of man’s cultural heritage”. Petra was named amongst the New7Wonders of the World in 2007 and was also chosen by the Smithsonian Magazine as one of the “28 Places to See Before You Die”.

The Official

New 7 wonders of the world.

Machu Picchu

15th-century Inca site in Peru

Cristo Redentor

statue of Jesus in Río de Janeiro, Brazil

Great Wall of China

series of fortifications built along the historical border of China

elliptical amphitheatre in Rome

Chichén Itzá

Pyramid at Chichén Itzá, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

A white marble mausoleum in Agra, India

The 21 Finalists

Latest news, new7wonders continues, find out how in our news room, petra honours all the new 7 wonders of the world on 7 wonders day.

On July 7, the official 7 Wonders Day around the world, Petra celebrates and honours all the New 7 Wonders of the World, with a visual recreation, by people standing together, of a human number “7” next to the historical treasury site in Jordan. With this 7 symbol, as well as other events to celebrate … Continued

Symbolic giant human “7” created at Machu Picchu, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World

To mark the official 7 Wonders Day, celebrated on 7 July every year around the world, Machu Picchu organises the highest-ever altitude recreation of a giant human number “7”. With this striking visual, Machu Picchu honours the world’s first-ever global vote to elect the New 7 Wonders of the World, a campaign organised by the … Continued

Bernard Weber & New 7 Wonders featured in Switzerland’s number one magazine

Zürich, 10 October 2023 The number one magazine in Switzerland publishes a cover article honouring the New 7 Wonders movement Founder-President, Bernard Weber. Coop magazine, with a readership of 3 million in a nation of 9 million inhabitants, also tells the story about how the world’s first ever global voting campaign for the New 7 … Continued

New7Wonders Wonder Marker at the Great Wall celebrated across Chinese News Media

Beijing and Zurich, 10 July 2023 The official unveiling of the New7Wonders Wonder Marker on 7 Wonders Day 2023 at the Great Wall has been widely reported across mainstream and social mobile media throughout China, recognising and celebrating the importance of this historic moment. Video news reports, distributed through the main mobile news portals that … Continued

Great Wall of China Unveils New7Wonders of the World “Wonder Marker”

Beijing and Zurich, 7 July 2023 Today marked the unveiling of the Wonder Marker, the 3 metre high signpost that celebrates the Great Wall of China as one of the official New 7 Wonders of the World (N7W) as chosen by a global public vote.  The ceremony took place at Huangyaguan Great Wall, Tianjin Province, … Continued

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Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

By: History.com Editors

Updated: June 13, 2023 | Original: October 27, 2009

The amazing works of art and architecture known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World serve as a testament to the ingenuity, imagination and sheer hard work of which human beings are capable. They are also, however, reminders of the human capacity for disagreement, destruction and, possibly, embellishment.

As soon as ancient writers compiled a list of “seven wonders,” it became fodder for debate over which achievements deserved inclusion. The original list comes from a work by Philo of Byzantium written in 225 B.C. called On The Seven Wonders . Ultimately, human hands joined with natural forces to destroy all but one of the wonders. Furthermore, it is possible that at least one of the wonders might not have existed at all. Still, all seven continue to inspire and be celebrated as the remarkable products of the creativity and skill of Earth’s early civilizations.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

The Great Pyramid, located at Giza on the west bank of the Nile River north of Cairo in Egypt , is the only wonder of the ancient world that has survived to the present day. It is part of a group of three pyramids–Khufu (Cheops), Khafra (Chephren) and Menkaura (Mycerimus)–that were built between 2700 B.C. and 2500 B.C. as royal tombs. The largest and most impressive is Khufu, known as “ The Great Pyramid ,” which covers 13 acres and is believed to contain more than 2 million stone blocks that weigh from two to 30 tons each. 

Did you know? The Colossus of Rhodes was an inspiration for the Statue of Liberty.

For more than 4,000 years, Khufu reigned as the tallest building in the world. In fact, it took modern man until the 19th century to build a taller structure. Amazingly, the nearly symmetrical Egyptian pyramids were built without the aid of modern tools or surveying equipment. So, how did Egyptians build the pyramids ?

Scientists believe that the Egyptians used log rollers and sledges to move the stones into place. The sloped walls, which were intended to mimic the rays of Ra, the sun god, were originally built as steps, and then filled in with limestone. The interior of the pyramids included narrow corridors and hidden chambers in an unsuccessful attempt to foil grave robbers. Although modern archeologists have found some great treasures among the ruins, they believe most of what the pyramids once contained was looted within 250 years of their completion.

Hanging Gardens of Babylon

According to ancient Greek poets, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were built near the Euphrates River in modern-day Iraq by the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II around 600 B.C. The gardens were said to have been planted as high as 75 feet in the air on a huge square brick terrace that was laid out in steps like a theater. The king allegedly built the towering gardens to ease his lover Amytis’ homesickness for the natural beauty of her home in Media (the northwestern part of modern-day Iran). Later writers described how people could walk underneath the beautiful gardens, which rested on tall stone columns. 

Modern scientists have deduced that for the gardens to survive they would have had to be irrigated using a system consisting of a pump, waterwheel and cisterns to carry water from the Euphrates many feet into the air. Though there are multiple accounts of the gardens in both Greek and Roman literature, none of them are firsthand, and no mention of the gardens has been found in Babylonian cuneiform inscriptions. As a result, most modern scholars believe that the existence of the gardens was part of an inspired and widely believed but still fictional tale.

Statue of Zeus at Olympia

The famed statue of Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek Mythology , was crafted by the Athenian sculptor Phidias and completed and placed in the temple of Zeus at Olympia, site of the ancient Olympics , around the mid-fifth century B.C. The statue depicted the god of thunder seated bare-chested at a wooden throne. Holding up the thrones’ armrests were two carved sphinxes, mythical creatures with the head and chest of a woman, the body of lion and the wings of a bird. The statue of Zeus was richly decorated with gold and ivory. 

At 40 feet, it was so tall that its head nearly touched the top of the temple. According to legend, the sculptor Phidias asked Zeus for a sign of his approval after finishing the statue; soon after, the temple was struck by lightning. The Zeus statue graced the temple at Olympia for more than eight centuries before Christian priests persuaded the Roman emperor to close the temple in the fourth century A.D. At that time, the statue was moved to a temple in Constantinople , where it is believed to have been destroyed in a fire in the year 462.

Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

There was actually more than one Temple of Artemis: A series of several altars and temples was destroyed and then restored on the same site in Ephesus , a Greek port city on the west coast of modern-day Turkey. The most fabulous of these structures were two marble temples built around 550 B.C. and 350 B.C., respectively. “Apart from Olympus, the Sun never looked on anything so grand,” the writer Antipater of Sidon wrote of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus.

The original Temple of Artemis was designed by the Cretan architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes and decorated by some of the most celebrated artists of the ancient world. The building burned on July 21, 356 B.C., according to legend the same night that Alexander the Great was born. It was torched by a Greek citizen named Herostratus , who claimed he burned the marvel so that his name would be known to history. He was put to death and the government declared it illegal to utter his name.

About six years later, the building of the new Temple of Artemis was begun. The new building was surrounded by marble steps that led to a more than 400-foot-long terrace. Inside stood 127 60-foot marble columns and a statue of Artemis, the Greek Goddess of the hunt. Archeologists disagree as to whether the building had an open-air ceiling or was topped with wood tiles. The temple was largely destroyed by Ostrogoths in A.D. 262, and it was not until the 1860s that archeologists dug up the first of the ruins of the temple’s columns at the bottom of the Cayster River.

Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

Located in what is now southeastern Turkey, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a tomb built by Artemisia for her husband, Mausolus, the king of Carnia in Asia Minor, after his death in 353 B.C. Mausolus was also Artemisia’s brother, and, according to legend, she was so grief-stricken at his passing that she mixed his ashes with water and drank them in addition to ordering the mausoleum’s construction. The massive mausoleum was made entirely of white marble and is thought to have been about 135 feet high. 

The building’s complicated design, consisting of three rectangular layers, may have been an attempt to reconcile Lycian, Greek and Egyptian architectural styles. The first layer was a 60-foot base of steps, followed by a middle layer of 36 Ionic columns and a stepped, pyramid-shaped roof. At the very top of the roof lay the tomb, decorated by the work of four sculptors, and a 20-foot marble rendition of a four-horse chariot. 

The mausoleum was largely destroyed in an earthquake in the 13th century and its remains were later used in the fortification of a castle. In 1846, pieces of one of the mausoleum’s friezes were extracted from the castle and now reside, along with other relics from the Halicarnassus site, in London’s British Museum.

Colossus of Rhodes

The Colossus of Rhodes was an enormous bronze sculpture of the sun god Helios built by the Rhodians over 12 years in the third century B.C. The city was the target of a Macedonian siege early in the fourth century B.C. and, according to legend, the Rhodians sold the tools and equipment left behind by the Macedonians to pay for the Colossus. Designed by the sculptor Chares, the statue was, at 100 feet, the tallest of the ancient world. It was completed around 280 B.C. and stood for sixty years until it was toppled in an earthquake. It was never rebuilt. 

Hundreds of years later, Arabs invaded Rhodes and sold the remains of the statue as scrap metal. Because of this, archeologists do not know much about the exact location of the statue or what it looked like. Most believe that it depicted the sun god standing naked while he lifted a torch with one hand and held a spear in the other. It was once believed that the statue stood with one leg on each side of a harbor, but most scholars now agree that the statue’s legs were most likely built close together to support its immense weight.

Lighthouse of Alexandria

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was located on a small island called Pharos near the city of Alexandria. Designed by the Greek architect Sostratos and completed around 270 B.C. during the reign of Ptolemy II, the lighthouse helped to guide Nile River ships in and out of the city’s busy harbor. 

Archeologists have found ancient coins on which the lighthouse was depicted, and from them deduced that the structure had three tiers: a square level at the bottom, an octagonal level in the middle and a cylindrical top. Above that stood a 16-foot statue, most likely of Ptolemy II or Alexander the Great, for whom the city was named. Although estimates of the lighthouse’s height have ranged from 200 to 600 feet, most modern scholars believe it was about 380 feet tall. The lighthouse was gradually destroyed during a series of earthquakes from 956 to 1323. Some of its remains have since been discovered at the bottom of the Nile.

New 7 Wonders of the World

In 2007, the New 7 Wonders Foundation held a contest to name the “New 7 Wonders of the World.” Tens of millions of people voted for the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that made the list. They span four continents and attract thousands of tourists each year. They are:

• The Great Wall of China (Built 220 BC to 1644 AD)
• The Taj Mahal, India (Built 1632-1648 AD)
• Petra, Jordan (Built 4 Century BC-2 Century AD)
• The Colosseum in Rome, Italy (Built AD 72-82)
• Christ the Redeemer statue, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Built 1926-1931)
• Chichen Itza, Mexico (Built 5-13 century AD)
• Machu Picchu, Peru (Build mid-15 century AD)

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Essay on “The New Seven Wonders of the World” Complete Essay for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

Essay No. 01

The New Seven Wonders of the World

History gives sanctity to only one list of seven wonders the one compiled in 200 BC by the Greek mathematics Philon of Byzantium. The monuments that featured in the ancient list were the Colossus of Rhodes the pharos at Alexandria, The Hanging Gardens of Babylon the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Mausoleum of Mausolus at Halicarnassus and the Statue of Zeus at Olympia. The Taj Mahal does not figure in it because obviously it did not exist then,

The tradition of Seven Wonders has inspired succeeding generations to compile countless lists sice the Alexandrian era. The Seven Wonders of the Middle ages were the Colosseum of Rome the Catacombs of Alexzandria the Great Wall of CHina, the Stonehenge the Porcelain Tower of Nanjing, China, the leaning Tower of Pisa , Italy, and the Hagia Sopia of Constantinople.

The new seven wonders project kicked off in 2001 by the swiss adventure Bernard Weber, rectifies a problem with the old list. Actually the Greek writers were limited by their borders and could not have seen what else was going on around the world.

Later there was global movement to choose the new seven wonders of the world by structured international polling. It was initiated by the swiss entrepreneur Bernard Weber. The polling was open to all prince or pauper across the world. The campaign made it mandatory that the structures must be manmade and be in sufficient state of preservation.

The new seven wonders of the world were announced on July 7, 2007 in Lisbon,Portugal after a much hyped worldwide poll. The Taj Mahal was named at the top position in a new list of Seven Wonders of the World. The other six who made it were the pyramid at Chichen Itza of Mexico, the Christ the Redeemer of Brazil the Roman Colossseum of Italy the great wall of china the Machu Picchu of Peru and the pink ruins of Petra in Jordan.

The Taj Mahal was built in 1630 A.D in Agra, India. This immense and exclusive mausoleum was built on the orders of Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal. The Taj Mahal is considered to the most perfect jewel of the Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world heritage.

The Pyramid at Chechen Itza, Mexico was built before 800 A.D Mexico Chechen Itza the most famous Mayan temple city, served as the political and economic centre of the Mayan civilization. This archeological site covers an area of approximately six square miles. The ruis are divided into two parts one part was built between 10th and 13th centuries A.D.

The Christ the Redeemer was built in Brazil in 1931. This statue of jesus stands some 38 mt. tall, atop the Corcovado mountain overlooking the Rio de Janeiro, designed by the Brazilian Heitor da Silva Costa. It was created by the French sculptor Paul Landowski.

The roman colosseum Italy was built between 70-82 A.D. to celebrate the glory of the Roman Empire. This is a great amphitheatre. This huge theatre has four floors and a total spectator capacity of about 50,000. This construction was started by the roman emperor Vespasian and was completed by his son, Titus.

The machu picchu was built in Peru, South America ,in the15th century, the I can emperor Pachacutee buit a city in the clouds of the mountain known as Machu Picchu. This extraordinary settlement lies halfway up the Andes plateau.Myths and legends indicate that the machu picchu was reserved as a sacred place and it was used as astronomical observatory.

Petra was built in Jordan between 9 B.C. and 40 A.D. on the edge of the Arabian Desert. Petra was the glittering capital of the Nabataian Empire of king Aretas IV. Petra is famous for having many stone structures carved johann Ludwig Burckhardt in 1812.

These seven wonders of the world are the most popular tourist spots in the world. Every year millions of tourists go to see them. The inclusion of the Taj Mahal at the top position has enhanced India’s prestige.

Essay No. 02

New 7 Wonders of the World

On 7/7/7 (a string of sevens) the new seven wonders of the world were announced by the New 7 Wonders Foundation (N7W) , a privately funded organization from Zurich in Switzerland. The announcement was made in Lisbon since it was a neutral country because no historical places was a contender for the new seven wonders from the country. The seven wonders were selected by millions of voters from across the globe by online or via telephone for their countries historical monuments to win and find a place in the new seven wonders of the world. The initial ten shortlisted historical places out of which seven wonders were globally elected were :

• Great Wall of China : was built (220 BC and 1368-1644 AD) to keep from invading Mongol tribes out of China. It is the longest man made monument to be visible from space!
• Ruins of Petra : was the glittering capital of the Nabatae-an empire of King Arctas IV (9 BC to 40 AD). It had great tunnel construction, theatre and its 42-metre high Hellenistic temple facade on the El-Deir Monastery are impressive examples of Middle Eastern Culture.
• Acropolis of Athens : The Acropolis (450-330 Be) temples have become the most famous architectural land marks of ancient and modern history.
• Chicken Itza ; It symbolizes worship and knowledge and was the most famous Mayan (800 AD) temple city.
• The Statue of Christ Redeemer : A 38 metres tall statue of Jesus stands atop the carcovado mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro since 1031. It welcomes visitors to Brazil.
• Roman Colosseum : An amphitheater in the centre of Rome was built in (70-82 AD) to celebrate the glory of the Roman Empire. Cruel fights and games used to take place in the area for the joy of the spectators!
• Easter Land Statues Is a collection of 25 metre-high stone sculptures by the society of Polynesian and is believed to be erected between (10th and 16th century). These stone figures are known as Moat
• Eiffel Tower: was created by Guestave Eiffel in 1887-89 AD. It is a magnificent steel tower and is a symbol of Paris. It is a fine example of an architecture.
• Taj Mahal : was a mausoleum built in 17th century by Shah Japan in memory of his beloved wife Noor Jean. It is built out of white marble and is the greatest symbol of love and passion.
• Incan Emperor Pachacutec The extraordinary settlement was built on the mountain known as Machu Picchu. It is a symbol of dedication and community.

The Seven New Wonders of the World are:

• Taj Mahal (India)
• Great Wall of China (China)
• Ruins of Petra(Jordan)
• The Coloseum (Rome)
• Statue of Christ Redeemer (Brazil)
• Perus Machu Picchu (Peru)
• Chichen Itza Pyramid (Mexico)

Essay No. 03

The Seven New Wonders of The World

The project named as ‘New 7 Wonders of the World’ was launched, as a private initiative, by Bernard Weber of Swiss-origin, in 1999. The New Open World Corporation and relevant website were established in 2001. The objective of the New 7 Wonders Foundation was to revive the ‘seven wonders of the ancient world’ concept, and prepare a list of modern ‘new 7 wonders of the world’ through a popular vote.

Herodotus (484 BC-425 BC) and Callimachus (305 BC-240 BC) had listed the ‘ancient’ 7 wonders of the world as: Great Pyramid of Giza, Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, Mausoleum of Maussollos at Halicarnassus, Colossus of Rhodes, and Lighthouse of Alexandria. Of these, only the Great Pyramid of Giza is still standing; other six were destroyed in earthquake, fire, or due to other reasons.

For inclusion in the list of ‘new 7 wonders’ , the site had to be man-made, completed before the year 2000, and be in an acceptable state of preservation. People were invited to cast their votes through the internet or telephone. Over 100 million votes were cast to select `new 7 wonders’ from among the sites in 200 countries of the world. There was no check on multiple voting. By November 2005, 177 monuments were up for consideration. On 1 January 2006, the list was narrowed down to 21 sites. Later, following complaints from Egypt over the inclusion of their ancient Great Pyramid in the list of ‘new 7 wonders’, it was reduced to 20. A midpoint tally had a top 10 list which included all 7 winners, plus Acropolis (Greece), Easter Island Moais (Chile) and the Eiffel Tower (France). T

The winners were announced on 7 July 2007 in Lisbon, Portugal.

The project had assigned attributes to each finalist, such as perseverance for the Great Wall of China and passion for the Taj Mahal.

In India, the movement had gathered momentum and reached a crescendo in July 2007 with news channels, radio stations, and many celebrities asking the public to vote. The Taj Mahal made it to the list of ‘new 7 wonders of the world’

The organizing foundation had relied on private donations, the sale of promotional merchandise and revenue from broadcasting rights to obtain funds, and originally committed to investing 50% of excess revenue in global good causes related to monument preservation and reconstruction. However, at the end, they wriggled out claiming ‘no earning’ from the exercise.

This project had nothing to do with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) whose ‘World Heritage List’ is different, and Taj Mahal was included in it in 1983. The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum in Agra, India, that was built under Mughal Emperor ShahJahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It has been cited as ‘the jewel of Muslim art in India and is one of the most admired masterpieces of the World’s Heritage’.

With immense public participation, the ‘new 7 wonders of the world’ have been chosen, and India’s Taj Mahal is one of them for people across the world to admire and enjoy.

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New 7 Wonders vs. Ancient 7 Wonders

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Essay on 7 Wonders of the World

Students are often asked to write an essay on 7 Wonders of the World in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on 7 Wonders of the World

The 7 wonders of the world.

The 7 Wonders of the World are magnificent structures admired for their architecture and historical significance. They are a testament to human creativity and engineering.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a fortification system built to protect against invasions. It’s the longest man-made structure in the world.

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer is a large statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It overlooks the city from the Corcovado mountain.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city in Peru. It’s known for its intricate stone constructions.

Chichen Itza

Roman colosseum.

The Roman Colosseum in Italy was a place for public spectacles. It’s the largest amphitheater ever built.

The Taj Mahal in India is a white marble mausoleum. It’s considered an architectural masterpiece.

Petra in Jordan is a city carved into red-rose sandstone. It’s famous for its rock-cut architecture.

250 Words Essay on 7 Wonders of the World

The magnificence of the seven wonders.

The Seven Wonders of the World, as designated by the New7Wonders Foundation, represent a testament to human creativity, ambition, and craftsmanship. They are a blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, spanning different eras and cultures.

The Great Wall, stretching over 13,000 miles, is a symbol of China’s historical resilience against invasions. Its construction, which spanned centuries, showcases the architectural prowess of ancient Chinese civilization.

Petra, Jordan

Christ the redeemer, brazil.

Overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is a significant symbol of Brazil’s Christian faith. Its location atop the Corcovado mountain and its art deco style combine to create an iconic landmark.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, an Incan city set high in the Andes, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Its terraced fields, temples, and astronomical observatories reveal the Inca’s sophisticated culture and knowledge.

Chichen Itza, Mexico

Roman colosseum, italy.

The Colosseum, a grand amphitheater, epitomizes the Roman Empire’s architectural sophistication and love for spectacle. It is a symbol of Rome’s enduring influence on modern architecture and urban planning.

Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal, an ivory-white marble mausoleum, is an embodiment of Mughal art and a universal symbol of love. Its intricate design and symmetrical layout exemplify the zenith of Islamic architecture.

500 Words Essay on 7 Wonders of the World

The seven wonders of the ancient world.

The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are a testament to mankind’s creativity and ingenuity. These architectural marvels, built between the 3rd Millennium BC and the 6th Century AD, represent the pinnacle of human achievement in their respective eras.

The Great Pyramid of Giza

Constructed around 2580-2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest of the Seven Wonders and the only one still largely intact. This Egyptian marvel, built for Pharaoh Khufu, showcases the extraordinary architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians. It was the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years.

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon

The Hanging Gardens, built by Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife around 600 BC, were a remarkable feat of engineering. Although no archaeological evidence has been found, ancient texts describe a garden of exotic flora and fauna, irrigated by an advanced system, presenting a lush green spectacle in the arid desert.

The Statue of Zeus at Olympia

This enormous statue of the Greek god Zeus, seated on a magnificent throne, was constructed by the ancient Greeks in the 5th century BC. The statue, made from ivory plates and gold panels, was a symbol of the religious devotion of the Greeks.

The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

The Temple of Artemis, built in the 6th century BC in Ephesus, was a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. It was rebuilt three times before its final destruction in 401 AD, each time becoming more elaborate and grand.

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

This tomb built for Mausolus, a Persian satrap, and his wife Artemisia was a unique fusion of Greek, Egyptian, and Near Eastern architectural styles. Constructed in 350 BC, the Mausoleum was adorned with intricate reliefs and statues, making it a masterpiece of the Hellenistic age.

The Colossus of Rhodes

The Colossus, a statue of the Greek sun-god Helios, was erected in the city of Rhodes in 280 BC. Standing approximately 33 meters high, it was one of the tallest statues of the ancient world.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria

The Lighthouse, built by the Ptolemaic Kingdom in the 3rd century BC, guided sailors into the harbor of Alexandria, Egypt. It was one of the tallest man-made structures for many centuries and served as a prototype for all future lighthouses.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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• Corpus ID: 272405939

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