The world’s most magnificent and awe-inspiring architectural marvels are commonly known as the Wonders of the World. These wonders can be broadly categorized into two main groups: the seven wonders of the ancient world and the seven wonders of the modern world.
The ancient wonders of the world were considered magnificent creations of early civilizations by the Romans and the Greeks. The seven wonders of the ancient world include:
- The Pyramids of Egypt
- The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
- The Tomb of Mausolus
- The Temple of Artemis (Diana)
- The Colossus of Rhodes of Helios
- The Statue of Zeus
- The Lighthouse of Pharos near Alexandria
The Pyramids of Egypt: The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops, is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids located in the Giza Necropolis near El Giza, Egypt. Built around 2560 BCE as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, it remained the world’s tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon: These gardens were constructed in the ancient city of Babylon, near present-day Al Hillah, Babil province, Iraq. They are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, although their existence remains a subject of debate. Legend attributes them to King Nebuchadnezzar II, built to please his homesick wife.
The Tomb of Mausolus: This mausoleum is named after Mausolus and was built in his honor by his wife and sister, Artemisia, the Younger. It was renowned for its beauty and adorned with intricate sculptures. Though it has since been destroyed, the site and architectural remnants are preserved.
The Temple of Artemis (Diana): Located in Ephesus, in present-day Turkey, the temple was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. It was rebuilt multiple times before its eventual destruction in 401 AD, and only foundations and sculptural fragments remain.
The Colossus of Rhodes: This statue of the Greek Titan Helios was erected in the city of Rhodes, commemorating the city’s victory over the ruler of Cyprus. It stood over 30 meters high before its destruction in an earthquake in 226 BC.
The Statue of Zeus: This colossal statue, located in Olympia, Greece, depicted Zeus seated and held the goddess Nike in one hand and a scepter topped with an eagle in the other. The throne of the statue was adorned with exquisite reliefs.
The Lighthouse of Pharos near Alexandria: Situated on the island of Pharos in the harbor of Alexandria, Egypt, this lighthouse was constructed around 290 BCE. It served both as a functional aid to ships and a tourist attraction. Its towering height and grandeur made it a marvel of the ancient world.
Quick Facts:
- The Pyramids of Egypt served as tombs for the ancient pharaohs, with the Great Pyramid of Giza being the most famous. It required a massive workforce and several years to construct.
- The Hanging Gardens of Babylon were constructed by King Nebuchadnezzar to please his homesick wife. These terraced gardens were irrigated by water from the Euphrates River.
- The Tomb of Mausolus was built in honor of King Mausolus and was adorned with a statue of the king and queen riding a chariot. While it eventually collapsed, remains of the structure are preserved in the British Museum.
- The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus featured a massive roof supported by two rows of towering columns, and it was dedicated to the goddess Artemis.
- The Colossus of Rhodes, a statue of Helios, was erected in celebration of Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. It stood over 30 meters tall.
- The Statue of Zeus in Olympia showcased the god Zeus seated on a grand throne adorned with intricate sculptures.
- The Lighthouse of Pharos near Alexandria served as both a functional aid to ships and a tourist attraction. It was constructed to a height of 122 meters and stood for over 1,500 years.