Hello, fellow travelers! This is Super Ace Pig here, and today, we’re going to embark on a journey through time, exploring the magnificent “Seven Wonders of the World.” These masterpieces of human ingenuity and ambition have fascinated historians and adventurers for centuries. Let’s dive in to uncover their secrets!
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Unraveling the Wonders
The concept of the “Seven Wonders” originates from the ancient Greeks, who compiled lists of the most remarkable sights across their known world. Over time, the most widely accepted compilation has come to be known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. However, it’s important to note that only one of these original seven, the Great Pyramid of Giza, still exists today.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and you’ll encounter a new list: the New7Wonders of the World. This list was finalized in 2007, following a global poll organized by the New7Wonders Foundation. It includes: the Great Wall of China, Petra in Jordan, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Chichen Itza Pyramid in Mexico, the Roman Colosseum in Italy, and the Taj Mahal in India. You can learn more about these modern wonders here.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about the Seven Wonders.
Seven, Eight, or Nine Wonders?
Technically, there are only Seven Wonders of the World, but several iconic sites have been coined as the “eighth wonder.” For instance, the ancient city of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and the Grand Canyon in the United States have both been referred to as the “eighth wonder” due to their awe-inspiring beauty and scale. The truth is, the term “eighth wonder” is more metaphorical and is not officially recognized.
As for a “ninth wonder,” this is mostly a colloquial term. Various natural and human-made marvels have been informally referred to as the “ninth wonder” due to their magnificence, but there’s no globally recognized “ninth wonder.”
What About Niagara Falls or the Statue of Liberty?
Niagara Falls and the Statue of Liberty, while both iconic and significant, are not officially listed among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient or the New World. However, Niagara Falls is often considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, another list compiled by the New7Wonders Foundation.
Someone might also find intersting to discover the world’s most remarkable cultural and natural treasures with our curated list of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit, offering a glimpse into the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of different regions around the globe.
The 7 Wonders of the World
1. Great Wall of China
Stretching over 13,000 miles, this awe-inspiring fortification displays the craft and ambition of ancient China. Its earliest construction traces back to the 7th century BC. More than just a wall, it boasts of towers, barracks, and signaling capabilities, truly reflecting the grandeur of its time. UNESCO included it in their heritage list, recognizing its global significance.
2. Petra, Jordan
Often referred to as the “Rose City”, Petra owes its nickname to the pink sandstone cliffs where the city’s structures are directly carved. As the capital of the Nabatean Kingdom around 312 BC, it showcases a blend of Hellenistic architecture with traditional Nabatean rock-cut temple designs. The UNESCO recognition attests to its historical and architectural importance.
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
This towering statue of Jesus Christ overlooks the city of Rio de Janeiro from the peak of the Corcovado mountain. Completed in 1931, this 30-meter Art Deco statue (excluding its 8-meter pedestal), crafted by French sculptor Paul Landowski, has become a symbol of Brazilian Christianity and global peace.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
Nestled high in the Andean mountains, this 15th-century Incan city provides a breathtaking vista with its intricate stonework against the backdrop of lush greenery and looming peaks. Declared a UNESCO site, its well-preserved ruins and mysterious history continue to draw explorers and tourists alike.
5. Chichen Itza Pyramid, Mexico
The Kukulkan Pyramid, or El Castillo, stands proudly in the center of the Chichen Itza archaeological site, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the ancient Mayans. Recognized by UNESCO, its sophisticated design, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-see for any history enthusiast.
6. Roman Colosseum, Italy
An epitome of ancient Roman engineering, the Colosseum is an immense amphitheater that could hold up to 50,000 spectators. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian around AD 70-72, it hosted gladiatorial combats, dramas, and public spectacles, standing as an enduring symbol of Rome’s imperial might. UNESCO included it in its heritage list for its cultural and historical importance.
7. Taj Mahal, India
Built as a monument of love by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal’s ivory-white marble facade glows ethereal at dawn and sunset. This iconic mausoleum blends elements of Persian, Ottoman, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles, making it a gem of global heritage as recognized by UNESCO
What's the Deal with the "Eighth Wonders"?
Various locations and structures have been colloquially referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world.” These include remarkable sites such as the Terracotta Army in China, the ancient city of Angkor in Cambodia, and even the Great Wildebeest Migration in Africa. However, there’s no globally accepted list of “eighth wonders.”
Are the 7 Ancient Wonders Real?
Yes, the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were all real structures, attested by historical records and archaeological findings. However, apart from the Great Pyramid of Giza, the rest have unfortunately been lost to time.
A Changing List?
While there have been numerous lists of “wonders” throughout history, the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World has remained relatively stable. The New7Wonders list was created as a modern counterpart, not as a replacement. Therefore, you could say that while our perception of what constitutes a “wonder” may evolve, the historical lists themselves do not change.
Visiting the Wonders
Despite the geographical spread, it is entirely possible to visit all seven wonders of the new list. Several travel agencies even offer dedicated “Seven Wonders” tours. However, it’s important to remember that the journey should be about more than just ticking off boxes – each of these sites is a testament to human creativity and perseverance, and each has a rich history and cultural significance that deserves time to be appreciated.
So, fellow adventurers, whether it’s exploring the ancient city of Petra, marvelling at the architectural grandeur of the Taj Mahal, or soaking up the atmosphere in the Roman Colosseum, visiting these wonders offers a unique and enriching travel experience. And even though there are only seven official “wonders,” our wonderful planet has countless marvels waiting to be discovered.
Until next time, this is Super Ace Pig from Pigs Fly Cheap, signing off. Remember, the world is your oyster, and your next adventure is just a flight away!