Believe it or not, there is not only ONE list compiling the world’s spectacular wonders. Other lists include the wonders of the ancient world, the modern world, the underwater world, the industrial world, and more.
Back in 2001, a Swiss corporation known as the New7Wonders Foundation decided to compile a list of man-made wonders. Each of the 200 candidates was a monument that operates today as a for-profit attraction. Citizens from all over the world were asked to cast their votes, and the final results were officially released on July 7th, 2007.
Chichen Itza (Yucatan, Mexico)
Chichen Itza, found in Yucatan, Mexico, is a large archaeological site that represents what remains of one of the main focal points of the Mayan civilization. The site is comprised of over 100 paved roads and dozens of stone buildings, many of which were beautifully restored. Chichen Itza is considered to be the property of the federal government but the site is run and maintained by the National Institute of Anthropology and History.
Christ the Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
The Christ the Redeemer statue found in Rio de Janiero is considered an important symbol of Christianity. The statue is located within the Tijuca Forest National Park and stands atop Corcovado Mountain. The Christ the Redeemer statue stands over 120 feet high and is considered the tallest statue representation of this image in the world.
Colosseum (Rome, Italy)
Almost everyone has heard of the Colosseum, either because he’s had the opportunity to visit or because he learned about the incredible amphitheatre while in school. The emperor known as Vespasian began construction around 70 AD and it was not completed until 80AD, when Titus was ruler.
Originally designed to hold over 80,000 spectators, the Colosseum was the site of several gladiator contests, executions, re-enactments, and theatrical performances. Despite having suffered severe damage from earthquakes and weather, the Colosseum is still one of the most visited tourist attractions in all of Rome.
Great Wall of China (China)
The original Great Wall of China was originally built to protect the borders of China from attacks throughout the years between the 5th century BC and the current 16th century. Believe it or not, there was more than one “Great Wall of China,” each built in a different area and by a different emperor.
The Great Wall was built over the course of centuries and is over 4,000 miles long. It begins in Shanhaiguan and ends in Lop Nur. The Ming Wall was considered the most important section, at the peak, and was once guarded by over a million soldiers.
Machu Picchu (Cuzco, Peru)
Machu Picchu, also known as “The Lost City of the Incas,” rests on a mountain ridge in the Urubamba Valley over 8,000 feet above sea level. The city was originally built back in 1460 and was considered one of the main symbols of the Inca Empire. It was abandoned during the Spanish conquest and legend says the land was forgotten until 1911 when it was rediscovered by an American historian known as Hiram Bingham.
There is evidence that the site may have been discovered 50-100 years earlier, but those discoverers only pillaged the site and left again. The site is now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Peru.
Petra (Jordan)
On the slopes of Mount Hor in the Arabah section of Jordan you’ll find Petra. The site is considered one of the most stunning architectural attractions in the world, with each building cut directly into the mountain wall. Both the interior and exterior artwork is astounding.
The site wasn’t discovered until 1812, but it is believed that the area has been occupied since as early as the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. The government has now designed an official “Visitor Centre” to accommodate tourists. The site is has been listed as World Heritage Site since 1985.
Taj Mahal (Agra, India)
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India is perhaps one of the most beautiful and stunning pieces of architecture in the world. It was built as a mausoleum where the Mughal Emperor known as Shah Jahan was to bury his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
The construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and was not completed until 1653. The buildings architecture draws from not only Mughal styles but also Ottoman, Islamic, Persian, and more. Visitors from around the world flock to Agra to see the domed marble ceiling and spectacular artistry as well as to pay their respects.
Honorary 8th Wonder - Great Pyramid (Giza, Egypt)
The Great Pyramid is considered a natural wonder and the Egyptian government was disappointed that it would have to compete with several man-made monuments like the Sydney Opera House and those that were chosen. As a compromise, the Great Pyramid is considered to be the “Honorary Candidate” after the 7 modern wonders of the world.
Here they are - the seven man-made wonders of the world (with an honorable runner up). Looking to plan a special trip this year? Consider touring the world to see each one - or work them into your vacation itineraries as you plan your vacations for years to come. We can only guarantee that no matter where you end up you won’t be disappointed.