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Back in 304 BCE, Greece’s harbor city of Rhodes successfully resisted a year-long siege, and its people celebrated by using abandoned weaponry to create an enormous statue of the ancient Greek god of the Sun, Helios.

It stood over the port entry to the city, and was about the same height (33 meters) as the Statue of Liberty from feet to crown. And though the Colossus technically fell after a 226 BCE earthquake, it lay on the ground and was still impressive for another 800 years.

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Lighthouses serve as beacons for all those at sea, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria was no different. However, its impressive architectural design of 100 meters of sandstone and limestone was far from simple, being one of the world’s tallest man-made structures for centuries.

Built during the time of pharaoh Ptolemy II Philadelphus on the small island of Pharos, it was said to have been crowned with a mirror that reflected sunlight during the day and fire at night, making it visible from up to 50 km away. Though the lighthouse was damaged in earthquakes and survived until 1480, “pharos” became the root word for lighthouse in Greek

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Mapped: The Ancient Seven Wonders of the World

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Mapped: The Ancient Seven Wonders of the World

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This graphic features the ancient seven wonders of the world that captivated people for thousands of years.

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For centuries, human civilizations across the world have built and created cities, buildings, monuments, tombs, temples, churches, mosques, and other structures that continue to inspire awe in millions. Narrowing down the world's wonders to only seven is a difficult task. Luckily, the New7Wonders Foundation took the initiative to compose a list of the "new" seven wonders of the world by narrowing down a list of 200 monuments from around the world, including some of the world's most famous landmarks. 21 finalists were selected from this list, and the top seven were selected by popular vote. These are the seven new wonders of the world: Chichén Itzá in Mexico, Christ the Redeemer Statue in Brazil, the Colosseum in Italy, the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu in Peru, Petra in Jordan, and the Taj Mahal in India. Each one offers a unique experience to those lucky enough to see them. From awe-inspiring design elements to hidden stories behind each structure, these wonders remain relevant today as they continue to capture imaginations across the globe.

The New Seven wonders of the world:

The Great Pyramid of Giza has also been added to the list. However, it is an honorary candidate and not one of the seven wonders.

Map Showing New 7 Wonders Of The World

The Colosseum - Italy

The Colosseum of Rome is one of the most iconic structures in all of history. It was constructed from sand and stone over eight years, (72 AD to 80 AD), commissioned by Emperor Vespasian, and the city initially named it the Flavian Amphitheater. The Colosseum stands today near the very center of Rome and still stands tall, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The Colosseum was a place to host grand events such as gladiator fights and public executions. It had a seating capacity of over 50,000 people, with some speculation that more than 100,000 people could fit in its sizeable elliptical design. Under Emperor Titus, the first games included athletic performances, tragic dramas, and wild animal hunts. Gladiators from all over Italy came to show off their skills in battle, creating an exciting pastime for the citizens of Rome.

Fire and earthquake destroyed parts of it through time, today's remaining structure still offers a grand view from any angle, something that intrigues tourists from all over the world. Although its purpose has changed since ancient times, now serving primarily as a tourist attraction, its legacy remains one that history refuses to forget.

The Great Wall of China - China

The Great Wall of China is one of the world's most ancient and impressive wonders. Spanning more than 13,000 miles across some of China's most challenging terrain. The history behind this spectacular structure dates back over 2,000 years, when Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of China, erected it. The primary purpose behind building the wall was to protect Chinese territories from foreign invaders such as Mongols and Manchu armies. After his reign, successive emperors added to it-including watchtowers, battlements, and parapets.

Today, many sections remain intact despite centuries of weather and warfare. Although the original goal was defensive, the Great Wall played a significant role in helping trade by preventing bandits from attacking merchants. At the same time, they traveled along its paths with their goods. This utility then led to increased economic activity, which helped develop Chinese culture and cemented China's status as a superpower for centuries. In 1987, UNESCO named it a World Heritage Site, and today it stands proud as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, offering visitors from around the globe a unique insight into China's deep history and culture. Though much effort has gone into preserving this remarkable structure in recent years, more work remains to ensure that this fascinating monument stands tall for future generations.

The Taj Mahal - India

The Taj Mahal is a grand monument in world history and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built it in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died from childbearing complications. The construction began in 1632 and took around 20 years to complete. The Taj Mahal is on the banks of River Yamuna near Agra and is an architectural masterpiece that combines elements from both Islamic and Hindu traditions.

This impressive structure comprises white marble, precious stones, copper, bronze, and 24-carat gold, which gives it a magnificent appearance. It has four distinct facades, each with an entrance gate-three octagonal while the fourth is pointed-that leads towards the center, where a large dome stands tall above the complex. Inside are several chambers and courtyards overflowing with ornate decorations such as intricate carvings, calligraphy, and Persian motifs. The Taj Mahal was listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 due to its size, beauty, and historical significance. Today it remains a popular tourist destination attracting millions of visitors each year from all over the globe. Its grandeur inspires awe and admiration centuries after its construction, making it one of India's prideful symbols of continuity through time.

Christ the Redeemer - Brazil

Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a massive statue of Jesus Christ atop Corcovado Mountain. It stands 98 feet tall and has become one of the world's most venerated symbols of Brazilian culture and faith. This breathtaking monument's story began in the 1850s when a group of Catholics proposed erecting "a symbolic representation of Christianity" as a sign of gratitude towards God for protecting Brazil during WWI.

In 1922, the campaign began with donations from people across the country, and by 1931 construction was underway. Engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculptor Paul Landowski used reinforced concrete and soapstone to complete the statue in 1931 after nine years of hard work. The grand unveiling came five years later, in which hundreds of thousands gathered to witness its beauty lit up with floodlights against a dark sky, an astonishing sight still remembered today. Christ the Redeemer also became one of the world's seven new wonders in 2007. Millions visit annually from around the globe, making it one of Rio de Janeiro's most popular attractions, both for faithful Catholics and those merely looking for outstanding views amidst stunning landscapes.

Machu Picchu - Peru

Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in Peru and one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. Construction finished around 1450 CE, during the reign of the Inca Emperor Pachacuti, and its likely function was for religious and administrative purposes. American explorer Hiram Bingham "discovered" the ruins in 1911 and, since then, the site has seen a steady influx of tourists from all over the world flock to admire Machu Picchu's grandeur. Notably, indigenous people in the area were aware of it and led Hiram to its location.

Machu Picchu is one of the seven Wonders of the World because it is an incredible example of pre-Columbian engineering and architecture. Not only does it display great precision in construction, but it also demonstrates a deep understanding of astronomy and natural resources. Its location on a mountain ridge between three lesser peaks gives it an impressive view of the Sacred Valley below. The walls are stones that masons carefully cut to fit together without mortar, demonstrating remarkable skill and knowledge. Up to 1,500 people may have inhabited the site, farming the terraced hillsides before abandoning their town due to the threat of Spanish colonists targeting Incan cities. What remains today is intact mainly due to conservation efforts, allowing archaeologists to understand better how this city fits into Inca culture with its various temples, palaces, homes, and agricultural terraces. Its intricate design continues to amaze visitors who wonder at its beauty centuries later.

Chichén Itzá - Mexico

Chichén Itzá is an ancient Mayan city located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. Built around 600-900 CE, it was once one of the most influential cities of the Mayan civilization. Chichén Itzá played an essential role in trade, and its strategic position allowed it to become an important regional political and economic center. The city is home to some of the most spectacular examples of Mayan architecture, including El Castillo, a large pyramid structure with many symbolic decorations, and various temples featuring intricate carvings on their walls. One unique feature is the Ball Court, which showcases an ancient Mesoamerican game resembling a cross between basketball and soccer.

Chichén Itzá is one of the seven Wonders of the World due to its impressive size, grandeur, and historical significance. The site demonstrates incredible engineering skills, such as precise calendar calculations to determine the exact alignments of buildings. In addition, its ruins show evidence that the builders used sophisticated construction techniques, such as drainage systems and archways over doorways that could support heavy columns without sinking into the ground. The ruins are also incredibly well preserved, which adds to why millions of tourists come from all over the world every year to admire these majestic structures. Visitors can still experience a real connection with this ancient city thanks to modern-day conservation efforts made by archaeologists and researchers who continue to uncover new information about this fascinating archaeological site.

Petra - Jordan

Petra is an ancient city located in the Kingdom of Jordan, one of the New seven Wonders of the World. Known initially as Raqmu, Petra was built around the 3rd century BC by a tribe of nomads called the Nabataeans. The Nabataeans had experienced architects who made their living by trading spices and incense throughout the Middle East. The city is most famous for its buildings carved directly into sandstone cliffs creating a visual spectacle that fascinates visitors today. Petra's most impressive landmarks are its temples, tombs, and grandest structure Al Khazneh (The Treasury). These structures possess intricate sculptures and handcrafted ornaments observers still marvel at today, even after thousands of years.

As Petra was once an important trading outpost for merchants from around the Mediterranean Sea, it prospered over time, becoming an influential center of culture, politics, art, and religion. However, it was eventually abandoned in the 8th century due to economic decline. Today Petra welcomes millions of tourists each year who admire its impressive architecture, rich history, and culture. This archaeological site has made such an impression that it has earned its place among the world's seven new wonders. Academics continue to study Petra, pursuing further knowledge of this ancient city's role in history.

Visiting the world's seven new wonders can be a truly unforgettable experience. Each structure carries a unique story that resonates with the cultures and beliefs within its own setting. From their beautifully crafted designs to their symbolic meanings, these new wonders are a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship while also representing the diverse histories of their countries of origin. Whether seen in person or admired from afar through photographs and stories, these structures offer invaluable insight into the past while also providing hope for future generations as they stand as reminders of humanity's most extraordinary achievements.

Great Pyramid of Giza - Egypt (Honorary Candidate)

Great Pyramid Of Giza

Although the Great Pyramid of Giza was not officially selected as one of the seven wonders of the world, it was assigned an honorary title because of its undeniable importance. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the biggest and the oldest one among the three pyramids forming the Giza Pyramid Complex. Egyptologists believe that this pyramid was built over a period of 10 to 20 years and completed by around 2560 BC. For over 3,800 years, the Great Pyramid of Giza stood tall as the world's tallest structure until this position was replaced by the skyscrapers of the modern world. The Pyramid has baffled engineers and architects across the world as to how it was constructed in times when modern infrastructural facilities did not exist. The pyramid houses the tomb of Khufu, the Fourth Dynasty Egyptian pharaoh.

Seven Wonders Of The World Location And Year Built

Other Lists Of Wonders

The Seven Natural Wonders of the World is an unofficial list of the most spectacular places in nature from around the globe.

The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World include picks from ancient times, such as the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Temple of Artemis, the Statue of Zeus of Olympia, the Colossus of Rhodes, and the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.

The 10 Wonders of the Medieval World include the most impressive wonders of the Middle Ages. Examples of these wonders include Stonehenge, the Hagia Sophia, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

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For centuries, human civilizations across the world have built and created cities, buildings, monuments, tombs, temples, churches, mosques, and other structures that continue to inspire awe in millions. Narrowing down the world's wonders to only seven is a difficult task.

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Ancient writers record that the architect of the building was Pytheos.  Also, the name of Satyros is mentioned.  Vitruvius recorded that the four most important sculptors of the 4th century BC worked on this structure.  Skopas in the east, Leochares in the west, Bryaksis in the north, Timotheos in the south.  Bryaksis is a Carian artist.  Other artists were brought from Greece.  It is said that the architect Pytheos built the four-horse chariot.  The Carian satrap Mausolos probably started construction in 355 BC during his rule.  After his death (353 BC), his wife and sister Artemeisia continued the construction of the monument;  After his death (351 BC), other brothers of Mausolos continued the construction.  Probably, the construction was left unfinished during the satrapy struggle between Pixodaros and Ada in 340 BC.

The mausoleum was rising at the place where the pit seen today is located, as can be understood from the places where the bedrock was cut and the green stones.  One of the last to see the monument standing, M.S.  Bishop Eustathios who lived in the 12th century.  This shows that the monument has survived for 1500 years.  After this date, it is thought that an earthquake destroyed the monument.  When the Knights of Saint Jean came to Bodrum in 1402, they saw the monument as ruined.  The knights used the monument as a quarry, and they built the Bodrum Castle by removing almost all of its stones.  The first destruction was done by the knights in 1494.  The actual burial chamber, located in the deepest part of the pit, was not found by the knights at that time, so it was saved from extinction.  In 1522, the Knights of Saint Jean wanted to strengthen their castles and searched for old building stones to be used in the construction of the castle.  Mausoleum, has suffered in recent destruction that date.  La Touret, one of the knights who took part in the strengthening of the castle, wrote in his memory the destruction of the tomb monument.  He tells how they found the 12-step staircase, which is trying to be partially preserved under a tile roof today, and how they first admired the statues and reliefs on both sides of the corridor leading to the burial chamber, and then smashed them.  Just when they were about to enter the burial chamber, the break-up horn sounded;  He wrote that they returned to the castle without entering the main chamber, and that when they came the next day, the burial chamber was opened, and they saw precious fabrics and gold ornaments in pieces all over the place.

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The lighthouse, which was built between 285 and 246 BC, is the first two kings of this state, Ptolemy Soter I and II.  It was built by Ptolemy on the Pharos Island opposite the Alexandria Harbor in Egypt.

The architect of the lighthouse, which consists of three parts, is Sostratus of Knidos.  The lantern, which is 135 meters high with its pedestal, was made of white marble.  A large bronze mirror on top was visible from 70 kilometers away and was guiding ships entering the harbour.  Its lower section was rectangular and about 55 meters high.  The middle section was shaped like a cylinder with an upward ramp.  It was about 27 meters high.  The upper part was cylindrical and had a chamber with a flame on it.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria is the only artifact used for daily life among the seven wonders of antiquity.

The upper part of the lighthouse was destroyed in an earthquake and storm in AD 955, and the body of the lighthouse was destroyed in another earthquake in 1302.  In 1500, the remains of this structure were completely destroyed.

It was called Pharos because of the island on which it was built, and this word has settled in many languages. Pharos means lighthouse in Spanish, French and Italian. His paintings, made before they were destroyed, have served as a model for lighthouses around the world for hundreds of years.

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It is the statue of the Greek Sun God Helios, located at the entrance of the harbor of the city of Rhodes on the island of Rhodes in ancient times.

In 305 BC, the Macedonian Antigonites, the successors of Alexander the Great, attacked Rhodes and the siege lasted for 1 year.  With the peace in 304 BC, the Rhodesians wanted to have a statue made to express their gratitude to the gods.  The statue symbolizing the Sun God Helios, made by the sculptor Haris of Lindos, is 32 meters high and made of bronze.  Its construction took 12 years and was completed in 282 BC.

There is a legend that ships passed between the legs of the statue standing at the port entrance, but it is thought that it was not possible to make such a statue with the construction techniques and materials of those times.

The shape of the statue was prepared based on the drawings and narratives, and the French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi made the Statue of Liberty in New York, inspired by the Statue of Rhodes.[1]

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Much like today’s Alexandria or Babylon, Halicarnassus was a thriving ancient city and capital of Caria. Its most famous ruler was Mausolus, the king of Caria, and when building the capital he also commissioned an elaborate above-ground tomb for himself.

Built in 351 BCE, the Mausoleum was over 45 meters tall and adorned with stunning sculptures and intricate carvings. Though it was destroyed by many local earthquakes between the 12th and 15th centuries, its legacy lives on as the word mausoleum went on to define stately, magnificent tombs.