Wonders of the World: What Are They and Why Should You Visit Them?
Have you ever wondered what are wonders of the world and why they are so famous? Wonders of the world are remarkable human-made or natural structures that showcase the beauty, skill, and ingenuity of different civilizations throughout history. They are often considered as symbols of cultural heritage, artistic expression, and scientific achievement.
wonders of the world
There are many lists of wonders of the world that have been compiled by various observers, writers, and organizations over time. The most well-known ones are the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the New Seven Wonders of the World. The former is a collection of magnificent monuments that were built by ancient Greeks and Romans, while the latter is a selection of spectacular landmarks that were chosen by popular vote in a global campaign in 2007.
But why should you visit wonders of the world? What can you learn from them? How can you enjoy them? In this article, we will answer these questions by exploring both the ancient and modern wonders of the world, as well as some other notable examples from different categories. We will also provide you with some tips and resources on how to plan your trips and make them memorable. So read on and discover what wonders await you around the globe!
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient WorldThe Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are the oldest and most famous list of wonders of the world. They were chosen by ancient Greek and Roman writers based on their admiration and awe for the achievements of their civilizations. Unfortunately, only one of them still stands today, while the others have been destroyed by natural disasters, wars, or human negligence. Here are the seven wonders of the ancient world and what makes them so remarkable:
ancient wonders of the world
new seven wonders of the world
natural wonders of the world
modern wonders of the world
seven wonders of the ancient world
great pyramid of giza
hanging gardens of babylon
temple of artemis at ephesus
statue of zeus at olympia
mausoleum at halicarnassus
colossus of rhodes
lighthouse of alexandria
chichen itza in mexico
christ the redeemer statue in brazil
colosseum in italy
great wall of china
machu picchu in peru
petra in jordan
taj mahal in india
wonders of the world wikipedia
wonders of the world list and pictures
wonders of the world map and locations
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wonders of the world gladiator fights and public executions
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wonders of the world flavian amphitheater
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wonders of the world athletic performances and tragic dramas
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wonders of the world tourist attraction and legacy
The Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and only surviving wonder of the ancient world. It is located in Egypt, near the capital city of Cairo. It was built around 2560 BC as a tomb for the pharaoh Khufu, also known as Cheops. It is the largest and most complex of the three pyramids in the Giza complex, which also includes the Sphinx and several smaller pyramids and temples. The Great Pyramid is estimated to have a height of 146 meters (481 feet) and a base length of 230 meters (755 feet) on each side. It consists of about 2.3 million blocks of limestone and granite, each weighing an average of 2.5 tons. The pyramid was originally covered with white casing stones that gave it a smooth and shiny appearance, but most of them have been removed or eroded over time. The pyramid is considered a masterpiece of engineering and architecture, as well as a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon are the most mythical and mysterious wonder of the ancient world. They are said to have been located in Babylon, near present-day Baghdad in Iraq. They were allegedly built by King Nebuchadnezzar II around 600 BC as a gift for his wife Amytis, who missed her homeland of Media (modern Iran). The gardens were described as a series of terraces that rose above each other, supported by stone columns and arches. They were filled with exotic plants, flowers, trees, and fountains, creating a lush and colorful oasis in the desert. The gardens were irrigated by an ingenious system of pumps, canals, and aqueducts that brought water from the nearby Euphrates river. The gardens were considered a wonder of engineering and horticulture, as well as a symbol of love and power.
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was the most magnificent wonder of the ancient world. It was located in Ephesus, near present-day Selçuk in Turkey. It was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting, wildlife, and fertility. It was built around 550 BC by King Croesus of Lydia, who spared no expense in making it a splendid and lavish sanctuary. The temple was designed by the architect Chersiphron and his son Metagenes, who used marble, gold, silver, ivory, ebony, and precious stones to decorate it. The temple had a length of 115 meters (377 feet) and a width of 55 meters (180 feet), making it one of the largest buildings in the ancient world. It had 127 columns that supported its roof, each standing at 18 meters (60 feet) high. The temple housed a statue of Artemis that was made of wood and adorned with jewels and garments. The temple was considered a wonder of art and religion, as well as a symbol of wealth and devotion. The Statue of Zeus at Olympia
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was the most majestic wonder of the ancient world. It was located in Olympia, near present-day Elis in Greece. It was made to honor Zeus, the king of the Greek gods and the patron of the Olympic Games. It was created around 430 BC by the sculptor Phidias, who was considered the greatest artist of his time. The statue was made of ivory and gold, and stood at 13 meters (43 feet) high, sitting on a throne that was 6 meters (20 feet) high. The statue depicted Zeus with a crown of olive leaves, a scepter in his left hand, and a statue of Nike, the goddess of victory, in his right hand. The statue was placed inside a temple that was specially designed to accommodate it. The statue was considered a wonder of craftsmanship and beauty, as well as a symbol of glory and authority.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was the most splendid wonder of the ancient world. It was located in Halicarnassus, near present-day Bodrum in Turkey. It was built as a tomb for Mausolus, the ruler of Caria, a province of the Persian Empire, and his wife Artemisia II, who was also his sister. It was constructed between 353 and 350 BC by several Greek architects and sculptors, who combined different styles and elements to create a unique and impressive structure. The mausoleum had a height of 45 meters (148 feet) and a base area of 1,200 square meters (13,000 square feet). It consisted of three parts: a rectangular base with 36 columns, a pyramidal roof with 24 steps, and a chariot with four horses and statues of Mausolus and Artemisia on top. The mausoleum was decorated with elaborate reliefs and sculptures that depicted scenes from Greek mythology and history. The mausoleum was considered a wonder of design and elegance, as well as a symbol of love and power.
The Colossus of Rhodes
The Colossus of Rhodes was the most colossal wonder of the ancient world. It was located in Rhodes, an island in the Aegean Sea near present-day Greece. It was built as a tribute to Helios, the Greek god of the sun, and as a celebration of the victory of Rhodes over Antigonus I Monophthalmus, a Macedonian king who besieged the island in 305 BC. It was erected between 292 and 280 BC by the sculptor Chares of Lindos, who used bronze, iron, and stone to make it. The statue had a height of 33 meters (108 feet), making it one of the tallest statues in the ancient world. It stood on a pedestal near the harbor entrance, with its legs straddling the waterway. The statue held a torch in its right hand and a spear in its left hand, while wearing a crown of sun rays on its head. The statue was considered a wonder of engineering and majesty, as well as a symbol of freedom and prosperity.
The Lighthouse of Alexandria
The Lighthouse of Alexandria was the most innovative wonder of the ancient world. It was located in Alexandria, near present-day Egypt. It was built to guide sailors and ships to the port city, which was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC. It was constructed between 280 and 247 BC by the architect Sostratus of Cnidus, who dedicated it to Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the king of Egypt at that time. The lighthouse had a height of about 120 meters (394 feet), making it one of the tallest buildings in the ancient world. It consisted of three sections: a square base with rooms and stairs, an octagonal middle section with windows and balconies, and a circular top section with a lantern and a fire. The lighthouse had a mirror that reflected the light from the fire during the night, and smoke signals during the day. The lighthouse also had a statue of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea, on its summit. The lighthouse was considered a wonder of technology and functionality, as well as a symbol of knowledge and culture. The New Seven Wonders of the World
The New Seven Wonders of the World are the most recent and popular list of wonders of the world. They were chosen by millions of people from around the world who participated in an online voting campaign that was organized by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based non-profit organization, in 2007. The campaign aimed to raise awareness and appreciation for the cultural and natural heritage of humanity, as well as to promote global unity and diversity. The new wonders of the world are a mix of ancient and modern landmarks that span across four continents. Here are the new wonders of the world and what makes them so spectacular:
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is the longest wonder of the modern world. It is located in China, stretching across 21,196 kilometers (13,171 miles) of mountains, deserts, grasslands, and plains. It was built over several centuries, from the 7th century BC to the 17th century AD, by different dynasties and emperors who wanted to protect their territories from invaders, especially the nomadic tribes from the north. The wall is composed of various materials, such as stone, brick, wood, earth, and lime, and has different features, such as watchtowers, fortifications, gates, and signal stations. The wall is not a continuous line, but rather a network of walls that branch off and connect with each other. The wall is considered a wonder of endurance and perseverance, as well as a symbol of Chinese civilization and culture.
The Taj Mahal in India
The Taj Mahal in India is the most beautiful wonder of the modern world. It is located in Agra, near the capital city of Delhi. It was built between 1632 and 1653 by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor, as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, blending Persian, Turkish, Indian, and Islamic styles and elements. The Taj Mahal is made of white marble that changes color depending on the time of day and the season. It has a symmetrical design that consists of a main dome, four minarets, a mosque, a guest house, and a garden with fountains and pools. The Taj Mahal is decorated with intricate carvings, calligraphy, inlay work, and precious stones that depict floral and geometric patterns. The Taj Mahal is considered a wonder of love and devotion, as well as a symbol of Indian art and history. The Colosseum in Italy
The Colosseum in Italy is the most iconic wonder of the modern world. It is located in Rome, the capital city of Italy. It was built between 72 and 80 AD by the Roman emperors Vespasian and Titus, as a grand amphitheater for public entertainment. The Colosseum could hold up to 80,000 spectators, who watched various shows and events, such as gladiator fights, animal hunts, mock battles, dramas, and executions. The Colosseum had a complex design that included a wooden arena floor, a hypogeum (an underground network of tunnels and chambers), a velarium (a retractable awning), and a series of arches, columns, and statues. The Colosseum was also equipped with ingenious mechanisms, such as elevators, trapdoors, and water pipes, that enhanced the spectacle and the realism of the performances. The Colosseum is considered a wonder of engineering and spectacle, as well as a symbol of Roman power and culture.
Machu Picchu in Peru
Machu Picchu in Peru is the most mysterious wonder of the modern world. It is located in the Andes mountains, near the city of Cusco. It was built around 1450 by the Inca emperor Pachacuti, as a royal estate and a religious center. Machu Picchu is a citadel that consists of more than 200 buildings, such as palaces, temples, houses, workshops, and storage rooms. It is divided into two main sectors: the urban sector and the agricultural sector. The urban sector contains the most important and sacred structures, such as the Intihuatana (a stone that marks the sun's position), the Temple of the Sun, and the Temple of the Three Windows. The agricultural sector contains terraces that were used for farming and irrigation. Machu Picchu is also surrounded by natural features, such as mountains, rivers, and forests, that create a stunning scenery. Machu Picchu is considered a wonder of architecture and harmony, as well as a symbol of Inca civilization and spirituality. Chichén Itzá in Mexico
Chichén Itzá in Mexico is the most impressive wonder of the modern world. It is located in the Yucatán Peninsula, near the city of Mérida. It was built between the 9th and 13th centuries by the Maya people, who were one of the most advanced and sophisticated civilizations in the ancient Americas. Chichén Itzá is a complex of temples, pyramids, palaces, ball courts, and observatories that reflect the Maya's religious, astronomical, and mathematical knowledge. The most famous and dominant structure is the Pyramid of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo, which has a height of 30 meters (98 feet) and a base of 55 meters (180 feet) on each side. The pyramid has four sides, each with 91 steps, plus a platform at the top, making a total of 365 steps, one for each day of the year. The pyramid also has a remarkable feature that occurs during the spring and autumn equinoxes, when the sun casts a shadow that creates the illusion of a serpent descending along the staircase. The pyramid is considered a wonder of science and art, as well as a symbol of Maya culture and cosmology.
Petra in Jordan
Petra in Jordan is the most stunning wonder of the modern world. It is located in a remote valley, near the city of Wadi Musa. It was built around the 6th century BC by the Nabataeans, a nomadic Arab tribe that controlled the trade routes in the region. Petra is a city that was carved out of red sandstone cliffs, creating a spectacular landscape of rock-cut buildings, tombs, temples, and monuments. The most famous and iconic structure is the Treasury, also known as Al-Khazneh, which has a height of 40 meters (131 feet) and a width of 25 meters (82 feet). The Treasury has a classical facade with columns, pediments, and sculptures that depict mythological figures and scenes. The Treasury was originally used as a royal tomb, but later became associated with legends of hidden treasures. The Treasury is considered a wonder of skill and beauty, as well as a symbol of Nabataean culture and history.
Christ the Redeemer in Brazil
Christ the Redeemer in Brazil is the most inspiring wonder of the modern world. It is located in Rio de Janeiro, on top of the Corcovado mountain. It was built between 1922 and 1931 by the Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and the French sculptor Paul Landowski, with the help of several other artists and workers. The statue is made of reinforced concrete and soapstone, and has a height of 30 meters (98 feet), not including its 8-meter (26-foot) pedestal. The statue depicts Jesus Christ with open arms, as if embracing the city and its people. The statue is illuminated at night, creating a striking contrast with the dark sky. The statue is considered a wonder of faith and grace, as well as a symbol of Brazilian identity and culture. Other Wonders of the World Worth Mentioning
The seven wonders of the ancient world and the new wonders of the world are not the only lists and examples of wonders of the world that exist. There are many other categories and criteria that can be used to define and appreciate the remarkable achievements and attractions of humanity and nature. Here are some other lists and examples of wonders of the world that are worth mentioning:
Natural Wonders of the World: These are wonders that are created by natural forces and phenomena, such as mountains, waterfalls, volcanoes, caves, canyons, islands, etc. Some examples are Mount Everest, Niagara Falls, Grand Canyon, Great Barrier Reef, Galapagos Islands, etc.
Engineering Wonders of the World: These are wonders that are created by human ingenuity and technology, such as bridges, dams, tunnels, railways, skyscrapers, monuments, etc. Some examples are Golden Gate Bridge, Hoover Dam, Channel Tunnel, Trans-Siberian Railway, Burj Khalifa, Eiffel Tower, etc.
Architectural Wonders of the World: These are wonders that are created by human artistry and design, such as palaces, castles, cathedrals, mosques, temples, museums, etc. Some examples are Versailles Palace, Neuschwanstein Castle, Notre Dame Cathedral, Hagia Sophia, Angkor Wat, Louvre Museum, etc.
Cultural Wonders of the World: These are wonders that are created by human expression and creativity, such as paintings, sculptures, literature, music, dance, cinema, etc. Some examples are Mona Lisa, David, Hamlet, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Swan Lake, The Godfather, etc.
Historical Wonders of the World: These are wonders that are created by human events and actions that have shaped the course of history and civilization. Some examples are Stonehenge, the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids of Giza, the Parthenon, the Colosseum, the Taj Mahal, etc.
These are just some of the many lists and examples of wonders of the world that you can explore and enjoy. There are no definitive or official lists or criteria for wonders of the world. You can also create your own list based on your personal preferences and interests. The important thing is to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the world we live in.
Conclusion: How to Visit and Appreciate Wonders of the World?
In this article, we have learned what wonders of the world are and why they are so famous. We have also explored both the ancient and modern wonders of the world, as well as some other notable examples from different categories. We have seen how these wonders showcase the beauty, skill, and ingenuity of different civilizations throughout history. They also reflect the cultural heritage, artistic expression, and scientific achievement of humanity.
But how can you visit and appreciate these wonders of the world? Here are some tips and resources for you:
Plan ahead: Before you go to any wonder of the world, do some research on its location, history, and significance. Find out how to get there, when to go, what to see, and what to do. You can use online guides, books, or apps to help you plan your trip.
Be respectful: When you visit any wonder of the world, remember that you are a guest in someone else's land or culture. Respect their rules, customs, and beliefs. Do not litter, vandalize, or disturb anything. Be polite and courteous to the locals and other visitors.
Be curious: When you visit any wonder of the world, be open-minded and curious about its history, meaning, and beauty. Ask questions, learn new facts, and discover new perspectives. You can use audio guides, signs, or guides to enhance your experience.
Be creative: When you visit any wonder of the world, be creative and expressive about your feelings and impressions. Take photos, videos, or sketches to capture your memories. Write a journal, a blog post, or a review to share your thoughts. You can also use social media platforms or websites to connect with other travelers and enthusiasts.
Visiting wonders of the world is a rewarding and enriching experience that can broaden your horizons and inspire you to learn more about the world we live in. We hope this article has given you some useful information and motivation to start your journey. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and explore the wonders of the world!
Frequently Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about wonders of the world that you might find helpful:
What is the difference between the seven wonders of the ancient world and the new wonders of the world?
The main difference is that the seven wonders of the ancient world are a list of monuments that were built by ancient Greeks and Romans, while the new wonders of the world are a list of landmarks that were chosen by modern people from different countries and cultures. The ancient wonders are mostly destroyed or damaged, while the modern wonders are mostly intact or restored. The ancient wonders are mainly located in Europe and Asia, while the modern wonders are spread across four continents.
How were the new wonders of the world selected?
The new wonders of the world were selected by an online voting campaign that was organized by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based non-profit organization, in 2007. The campaign started with a list of 200 candidates, which was narrowed down to 77 by a panel of experts. Then, the public was invited to vote for their favorite seven wonders from the shortlist. More than 100 million votes were cast, and the final results were announced on July 7, 2007.
Are there any other lists of wonders of the world?
Yes, there are many other lists of wonders of the world that have been compiled by various observers, writers, and organizations over time. Some examples are natural wonders of the world, engineering wonders of the world, architectural wonders of the world, cultural wonders of the world, historical wonders of the world, etc. There are no definitive or official lists or criteria for wonders of the world. You can also create your own list based on your personal preferences and interests.
What are the benefits of visiting wonders of the world?
Visiting wonders of the world can have many benefits for you, such as:
Learning about different cultures, histories, and achievements of humanity and nature.
Appreciating the beauty, diversity, and harmony of the world we live in.
Expanding your horizons and perspectives on various topics and issues.
Having fun and memorable experiences with your family, friends, or yourself.
Inspiring yourself to pursue your own dreams and goals.
What are some tips and resources for visiting wonders of the world?
Some tips and resources for visiting wonders of the world are:
Plan ahead: Before you go to any wonder of the world, do some research on its location, history, and significance. Find out how to get there, when to go, what to see, and what to do. You can use online guides, books, or apps to help you plan your trip.
Be respectful: When you visit any wonder of the world, remember that you are a guest in someone else's land or culture. Respect their rules, customs, and beliefs. Do not litter, vandalize, or disturb anything. Be polite and courteous to the locals and other visitors.
Be curious: When you visit any wonder of the world, be open-minded and curious about its history, meaning, and beauty. Ask questions, learn new facts, and discover new perspectives. You can use audio guides, signs, or guides to enhance your experience.
Be creative: When you visit any wonder of the world, be creative and expressive about your feelings and impressions. Take photos, videos, or sketches to capture your memories. Write a journal, a blog post, or a review to share your thoughts. You can also use social media platforms or websites to connect with other travelers and enthusiasts.
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