In 2007, a new list of the 7 Wonders of the World was compiled through a worldwide poll. This list showcases some of the most remarkable and awe-inspiring structures from around the globe. Here, we'll delve into the history, significance, and fascinating facts about each of these modern wonders.
The Winners
- The Great Wall of China
- Length: Approximately 13,170 miles (21,200 km)
- Built to protect the Chinese Empire from invaders, this ancient series of fortifications stretches across mountains, valleys, and deserts.
- The Taj Mahal
- Location: Agra, India
- Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this stunning white marble mausoleum is a testament to love and architectural excellence.
- Machu Picchu
- Location: Peru
- This Inca citadel, abandoned before the arrival of the Spanish, is an engineering marvel perched on a mountain ridge over 7,900 feet above sea level.
- Chichén Itzá
- Location: Mexico
- Once the center of the Mayan civilization, this ancient city is famous for its pyramid, El Castillo, and its sophisticated astronomical observatories.
- The Roman Colosseum
- Location: Rome, Italy
- This iconic amphitheater, built in the 1st century AD, hosted gladiatorial contests and public events, showcasing the engineering prowess of the ancient Romans.
- The Christ the Redeemer Statue
- Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Designed by Paul Landowski and built by Heitor da Silva Costa, this 98-foot-tall Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ has become a symbol of Christianity and Brazilian culture.
- Petra
- Location: Jordan
- This ancient city, carved into the sandstone cliffs of Jordan, was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is now a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage.
Statistics and Metrics
Over 100 million people voted in the 2007 poll to select the New 7 Wonders of the World.
The Great Wall of China is the longest structure in the world, stretching over 13,000 miles.
The Taj Mahal attracts over 5 million visitors annually.
Machu Picchu is one of the most visited archaeological sites in South America, with over 1 million visitors each year.
Resources
- "New 7 Wonders of the World" - https://world.new7wonders.com/wonders/
- "Great Wall of China" - https://www.britannica.com/topic/Great-Wall-of-China
- "Taj Mahal" - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taj_Mahal
- "Machu Picchu" - https://www.britannica.com/place/Machu-Picchu
- "Chichén Itzá" - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chichen_Itza
- "Colosseum" - https://www.britannica.com/topic/Colosseum
- "Christ the Redeemer" - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ_the_Redeemer_(statue)
- "Petra" - https://www.britannica.com/place/Petra-ancient-city-Jordan
Other Information
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre - https://whc.unesco.org/
- New7Wonders Foundation - https://www.new7wonders.com/
- National Geographic - https://www.nationalgeographic.org/