The world boasts numerous awe-inspiring architectural marvels, some of which are so remarkable that they have been designated as the seven wonders of the medieval world. These include the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, the Great Wall of China in Beijing, the Christ the Redeemer Statue in Rio de Janeiro, Machu Picchu in Peru, Chichen Itza in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, the Roman Colosseum in Rome, and Petra in Jordan. The Swiss foundation 7 marvels initiated the selection process for the new seven wonders in 2000, with the winners announced in 2007 and the complete list released.
1. The Colosseum
It is also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an ancient Roman structure located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Built in AD 80-90, it is considered one of the greatest wonders of the world, and is an iconic symbol of the ancient Roman Empire.
The Colosseum is a large amphitheater with an oval shape that was able to accommodate more than 50,000 people. It served as a venue for a variety of public events, including gladiator battles, animal hunts, executions, theatrical performances, and mock sea battles. The Colosseum's architecture is impressive, featuring a complex system of tunnels, passages, and trapdoors beneath the arena floor. The wooden plank floor was covered with sand to absorb the blood of the participants. Additionally, the Colosseum had a retractable awning known as the velarium that could be opened to shade the audience during hot days.
Over the centuries, the Colosseum suffered from neglect, earthquakes, and being used as a quarry for building materials. Despite this, it has been partially restored and is now a popular tourist destination in Rome. Visitors can tour the Colosseum (seven wonders of the medieval world) and learn about its history and significance, which symbolizes the power and grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire and the skill of its builders.
2. Machu Picchu
It is an ancient Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Constructed in the 15th century, Machu Picchu is recognized as one of the most notable wonders of the world and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This citadel is regarded as a masterpiece of Inca engineering and architecture and is celebrated for its breathtaking natural surroundings and awe-inspiring panoramic views.
Situated at an altitude of more than 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level, Machu Picchu is perched atop a mountain ridge that overlooks the Urubamba River valley. The structure was created by utilizing large stone blocks that were meticulously cut and assembled without the aid of mortar. The site encompasses over 200 edifices, including temples, palaces, and residences for the Inca emperor and his entourage.
After the Spanish conquest of Peru in the 16th century, Machu Picchu was deserted by the Inca population and remained hidden from the outside world for centuries. In 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham rediscovered it, and it has since become one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America.
Visitors to Machu Picchu can traverse the Inca Trail, which is a network of ancient pathways that meander through the Andes Mountains and lead to the citadel. This trail is renowned for its stunning scenery and challenging terrain and is considered one of the world's most remarkable hiking routes. Exploring the citadel itself and discovering the history and culture of the Inca people who created it is also a popular activity.
Machu Picchu (seven wonders of the medieval world) stands as a testament to the ingenuity and expertise of the Inca people, who were able to construct a magnificent city on a remote mountain ridge using only the tools and resources at their disposal. It is an emblem of the ancient Inca civilization and a reminder of the extraordinary achievements of one of the world's most impressive cultures.
3. Petra
The city was carved into the surrounding mountains and features a diverse array of temples, tombs, and other edifices that highlight the Nabataean's mastery of stonemasonry and engineering. The Treasury is the most iconic structure in Petra, a splendid building hewn out of a cliff face adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings.
Petra served as a significant hub for trade and commerce in ancient times, and was a pivotal stop on the spice and silk trade routes that linked the Middle East with Asia and Europe. The city was also a major religious center and was home to a range of notable temples and shrines dedicated to various deities.
Despite its significance and grandeur, Petra was largely abandoned by the 6th century AD and remained concealed from the world for centuries. It was rediscovered by a Swiss explorer in 1812 and has since become one of the most favored tourist destinations in the Middle East.
Visitors to Petra can explore the various buildings and monuments, such as the Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs. They can also trek through the adjacent mountains and valleys, which provide awe-inspiring views of the city and the surrounding terrain.
Petra (seven wonders of the medieval world)is a testament to the Nabataean people's resourcefulness and expertise, who were able to construct an extraordinary city amidst a desert, utilizing only the available tools and resources. It serves as a symbol of the ancient world and a reminder of the remarkable accomplishments of one of the world's great civilizations.
4. The Taj Mahal
The mausoleum, constructed from white marble, is embellished with intricate carvings, delicate calligraphy, and precious stones inlays. It is surrounded by a large garden, and features a reflecting pool that reflects the mausoleum's image, making it even more breathtaking. The Taj Mahal is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings on earth.
The Taj Mahal construction began in 1632 and lasted more than 20 years. Legend has it that the emperor was so overwhelmed with grief after his wife's death that he spent his entire fortune constructing the mausoleum in her honor. The Taj Mahal is a symbol of the immense love shared between the emperor and his wife, and is regarded as one of the world's greatest works of art.
Tourists can explore the Taj Mahal and the surrounding gardens, learning about the Mughal empire's rich history and culture. The Taj Mahal is also a favorite spot for photography and sightseeing, attracting millions of visitors worldwide annually.
5. The Christ the Redeemer Statue
seven wonders of the medieval world, Visitors can reach the statue by taking a train or hiking up the Corcovado Mountain, on top of which it is located, offering panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and the surrounding landscape. The statue serves as a pilgrimage site for Christians and symbolizes Brazil's strong Christian heritage, peace, and unity.
Over the years, the statue has undergone upgrades to improve its safety and accessibility, including modern lighting and sound systems, making it a popular tourist destination. The Christ the Redeemer Statue is a remarkable tribute to the creativity and expertise of its designers and engineers, an emblem of Brazil's rich cultural heritage, and a symbol of faith, hope, and peace.
6. The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China stands as a remarkable testament to the intelligence and expertise of the Chinese engineers and laborers who designed and built it. It is regarded as one of the most impressive engineering accomplishments in human history and serves as an emblem of China's rich cultural legacy.
Today, visitors can explore many sections of the Great Wall that have been restored and opened to tourists, with the Badaling section being the most popular due to its proximity to Beijing and easy accessibility. The Great Wall is a symbol of China's diverse cultural heritage and a revered site of pilgrimage for tourists from all over the world. It is a tribute to the persistent power of human resourcefulness and perseverance, as well as a call to safeguard our cultural heritage for future generations.
7. Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá is admired for its remarkable architectural designs, including the well-known El Castillo pyramid, standing more than 30 meters tall with nine levels. Other impressive buildings at the site are the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ballcourt, and the Temple of the Jaguar.
The city was a crucial center of Mayan culture and religion, and was believed to have been a major trading and commercial hub. The site has numerous important Mayan artifacts and artworks, such as intricate carvings, sculptures, and murals.
Presently, visitors can tour the Chichén Itzá ruins to learn about Mayan history and culture. The site is open to visitors all year round and remains one of Mexico's top tourist destinations.
Chichén Itzá's structures are a testament to the Mayan architects and craftsmen's resourcefulness and expertise. It is a symbol of the Mayan civilization's rich cultural heritage and is a tribute to the timeless potential of human imagination and creativity.