Discover the Names of the Wonders of the World
The world is full of amazing and awe-inspiring wonders that leave us awestruck with their beauty, grandeur and mystery. From ancient temples to modern marvels, natural wonders to man-made structures, our planet is home to countless wonders that have captured the imaginations of people for centuries.
Throughout history, various lists have been made to commemorate these extraordinary places and objects, giving them the title of “Wonders of the World”. In this blog post, we will explore the names of the wonders of the world, from the ancient times to the present day.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were a collection of remarkable structures and monuments created by human hands during the classical era. These wonders were chosen by various Greek historians and travelers as the most impressive and noteworthy sights of their time. Unfortunately, only one of these wonders still stands today. Let’s take a closer look at the names of these remarkable structures.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Great Pyramid of Giza
Also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza Necropolis, located on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt. It was built as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu around 2560 BC and was the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. Made of limestone blocks weighing up to 80 tons each, this pyramid is truly a testament to the incredible engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
According to ancient Greek historian, Herodotus, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were an elaborate series of tiered gardens built by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife who missed the green mountains of her homeland. This wonder was said to have been built around 600 BC and featured a variety of plants, trees, and flowers cascading down the terraces. While there is no concrete evidence of its existence, this wonder has captured the imagination of people for centuries.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was a Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis, built in the ancient city of Ephesus (in present-day Turkey) around 550 BC. It was one of the largest temples in the ancient world, with over 100 marble columns standing at 60 feet tall. Sadly, the temple was destroyed by arson in 356 BC and was later rebuilt, only to be destroyed again during an invasion in 262 AD.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Colossus of Rhodes
The Colossus of Rhodes was a giant bronze statue of the Greek god Helios, built on the island of Rhodes in Greece around 280 BC. Standing at over 100 feet tall, it was one of the tallest statues in the ancient world and was said to have stood astride the entrance to the harbor. Unfortunately, it collapsed after an earthquake in 226 BC, leaving behind only its broken pieces.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Lighthouse of Alexandria
Also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, the Lighthouse of Alexandria was a towering structure built on the island of Pharos in Egypt around 280 BC. Standing at over 350 feet tall, it was one of the tallest structures in the ancient world and served as a beacon for sailors entering the harbor. It was severely damaged by earthquakes in the 14th century and eventually disappeared due to erosion and tidal waves.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was a grand tomb built in the city of Halicarnassus (present-day Bodrum, Turkey) around 353 BC. It was built for King Mausolus and his wife Artemisia and was adorned with intricate sculptures and decorations. The word “mausoleum” comes from this wonder, as it was considered to be one of the most impressive tombs in the ancient world. Sadly, it was destroyed by a series of earthquakes and its remains were used to build a castle in the 15th century.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Statue of Zeus at Olympia
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a giant statue of the Greek god Zeus, created by the famous sculptor Phidias around 435 BC. It was considered to be one of the greatest masterpieces of ancient Greek art and stood over 40 feet tall. This statue was housed in the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Greece until it was destroyed by fire in the 5th or 6th century AD.
The Seven Wonders of the Modern World
In the 20th century, a new list of wonders was created, known as the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. These were chosen by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and represent some of the most significant achievements in engineering and architecture. Let’s take a look at these impressive modern wonders.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Great Wall of China
Built over a period of several centuries, the Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications that stretches over 13,000 miles across northern China. It was constructed to protect the Chinese empire from invasions and is made up of various walls and towers built during different dynasties. Today, it is one of the most iconic and recognized structures in the world.
Names of the Wonders of the World – Petra
Located in Jordan, Petra is an ancient city carved into the rock face of a mountain. It was the capital of the Nabatean kingdom and served as an important trading center in the ancient world. The city was hidden from the rest of the world for centuries until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. The most famous structure in Petra is the Treasury, which was featured in the movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”.
Names of the Wonders of the World – The Colosseum
The Colosseum in Rome, Italy is an ancient amphitheater that could hold up to 80,000 spectators. It was used for gladiator contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles during the Roman Empire. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy and serves as a reminder of the grandeur and power of the ancient Roman civilization.
Names of the Wonders of the World – Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian city built by the Mayans in present-day Mexico. This archaeological site is home to many impressive structures, including the Temple of Kukulcan (also known as El Castillo), which features a pyramid with 365 steps (one for each day of the year). Chichen Itza is also famous for its use of advanced astronomical knowledge and calendar systems.
Names of the Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It was built in the 15th century and was abandoned just over 100 years later. This site was unknown to the outside world until it was discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Today, it is a major tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Names of the Wonders of the World – Christ the Redeemer
Christ the Redeemer is a statue of Jesus Christ located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Standing at 98 feet tall, it overlooks the city from the top of Corcovado Mountain. This statue is not only a symbol of Christianity, but also a symbol of Brazil and its people.
Names of the Wonders of the World – Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is located in Agra, India and is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Its intricate marble designs and stunning gardens make it a must-visit for travelers from all over the world.
The New Seven Wonders of the World
In 2001, a Swiss-based foundation called New7Wonders organized a global poll to choose the “New Seven Wonders of the World”. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about the cultural and natural diversity of our planet and to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of humankind. The results were announced in 2007 and these seven wonders were chosen:
Chichen Itza
As mentioned earlier, Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city and was chosen as one of the New7Wonders of the World due to its impressive architecture and historical significance.
Christ the Redeemer
Another repeat from the list of modern wonders, Christ the Redeemer was chosen once again for its iconic representation of both Christianity and Brazil.
Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheater, made it onto this list due to its historical importance and remarkable architecture that has stood the test of time.
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China was also chosen as one of the New7Wonders of the World, cementing its place as one of the most recognized and celebrated structures in human history.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu’s selection as one of the New7Wonders of the World has brought even more attention to this incredible site, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Petra
Another wonder that has made it onto multiple lists, Petra’s stunning rock-cut architecture and unique history have secured its place as one of the most impressive wonders in the world.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal’s selection in the New7Wonders of the World poll was a given, as it is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful and romantic monuments in the world.
The Seven Natural Wonders of the World
While man-made wonders are certainly impressive, the natural wonders of our planet are equally breathtaking. In 2011, a global poll was conducted to determine the new Seven Natural Wonders of the World. These wonders were chosen based on their natural beauty, uniqueness, and ecological significance.
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon that occurs in high-latitude regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic. It is caused by solar winds interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating a spectacular display of dancing colors in the sky.
Victoria Falls
Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. It is over a mile wide and drops 355 feet into the Zambezi River, creating a stunning sight and a popular tourist destination.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA is a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River. It stretches for over 270 miles and is up to 18 miles wide in some places. The colorful rock formations and incredible views make it one of the most visited natural wonders in the world.
Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, spanning over 1,400 miles off the coast of Australia. It is home to thousands of species of marine life and is a popular spot for diving and snorkeling.
Mount Everest
Mount Everest, located on the border of Nepal and Tibet, is the tallest mountain in the world, standing at 29,029 feet. It has captured the imagination of adventurers and climbers for centuries and continues to be a challenging and dangerous summit to conquer.
ParÃcutin Volcano
ParÃcutin is a cinder cone volcano located in Mexico. It erupted suddenly in 1943 and continued to erupt for nine years, creating a new mountain and changing the landscape of the surrounding area. Today, the hardened lava flow can still be seen, making it an impressive natural wonder.
Harbor of Rio de Janeiro
The Harbor of Rio de Janeiro is a natural harbor located in Brazil. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches, mountains, and islands, making it one of the most picturesque harbors in the world. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue overlooks this harbor, adding to its scenic beauty.
The Seven Underwater Wonders of the World
While much of our planet has been explored and discovered, there are still many wonders that remain hidden beneath the surface of our oceans. In 1989, CEDAM International (the Center for Environments, Diversity and Marine Activities) created a list of the Seven Underwater Wonders of the World to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.
Palau’s Rock Islands and Jellyfish Lake
Located in the Pacific Ocean, Palau’s Rock Islands are a group of over 300 small limestone islands known for their unique mushroom-like shape. The nearby Jellyfish Lake is home to millions of golden jellyfish that have evolved without stinging cells, allowing visitors to swim among them safely.
Belize Barrier Reef
The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System and is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. It is home to over 500 species of fish and countless marine plants and animals, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are a group of volcanic islands famous for their rich biodiversity and unique species that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
Great Blue Hole
The Great Blue Hole is a massive underwater sinkhole located off the coast of Belize. It is over 1,000 feet across and 400 feet deep, making it a popular spot for scuba divers who can explore its ancient stalactites and diverse marine life.
Northern Red Sea
The Northern Red Sea, located between Africa and Asia, is home to some of the most stunning coral reefs in the world. It is also a major route for migrating sea creatures such as dolphins, sharks, and whales, making it a prime spot for diving and snorkeling.
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is a large freshwater lake located in Siberia, Russia. It is the oldest and deepest lake in the world, with some parts reaching a depth of 5,387 feet. This lake is also known for its crystal clear waters and unique species of plants and animals that have adapted to its harsh environment.
Palau’s Micronesian Shipwrecks
Palau’s Micronesian Shipwrecks are a group of sunken ships from World War II that have become home to an abundance of marine life. These wrecks serve as a reminder of the destructive impact of war on our oceans and highlight the importance of preserving and protecting these delicate ecosystems.
The Seven Forgotten Wonders of the World
While many lists have been made to recognize the wonders of our world, there are still countless incredible structures and sights that have been forgotten or overlooked. Here are seven wonders that deserve more recognition and appreciation.
Pyramids of Meroë
Located in Sudan, the Pyramids of Meroë are a collection of over 200 ancient pyramids built by the Kingdom of Kush around 800 BC. They were used as tombs for the royalty of the kingdom and are smaller and steeper than the Pyramids of Giza.
Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a 233-foot-tall statue of Buddha carved into a cliff in Sichuan, China. It was built in the 8th century AD and is one of the largest stone sculptures in the world. The statue overlooks the confluence of three rivers and has become a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
City of Persepolis
Persepolis was an ancient city located in present-day Iran and was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Built around 515 BC, it was a grand complex with impressive structures such as the Gate of All Nations and the Apadana Palace. Unfortunately, it was burned down by Alexander the Great in 330 BC, but its remains still offer a glimpse into the splendor of the ancient Persian civilization.
Phaistos Disc
The Phaistos Disc is a clay disk covered in mysterious symbols that was discovered on the island of Crete in Greece in the early 1900s. Its purpose and meaning are still unknown, but it is believed to be over 3,500 years old, making it one of the oldest known written artifacts in the world.
Krak des Chevaliers
Krak des Chevaliers is a Crusader castle located in Syria and was built in the 12th century AD during the Crusades. It is considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world and has served as a fortress, palace, and prison throughout its history.
Hanging Monastery
Located in Shanxi, China, the Hanging Monastery is a unique wooden temple built into the side of a cliff over 1,500 years ago. It stands at over 164 feet above the ground and is supported by a series of wooden pillars, making it a remarkable feat of engineering and architecture.
Djenne-Djenno
Djenne-Djenno is an archaeological site located in Mali and is believed to be the oldest known city in sub-Saharan Africa, dating back to 250 BC. The ruins of this ancient city offer insights into the complex urban society that existed in the region during the Iron Age.
The Seven Wonders of the Industrial World
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the world saw a rapid growth in industrialization and technological advancements. This led to the creation of many impressive structures and inventions that revolutionized the way we live. Here are seven wonders of the industrial world that played a significant role in shaping our modern world.
SS Great Eastern
The SS Great Eastern was a massive steamship built in England in the mid-1800s. It was the largest ship in the world at the time and played a crucial role in laying the first transatlantic telegraph cable between Europe and America.
Bell Rock Lighthouse
The Bell Rock Lighthouse, located off the coast of Scotland, is the oldest surviving sea-washed lighthouse in the world. Built in the early 1800s, its construction was a remarkable feat of engineering, with workers having to endure harsh weather conditions and high tides.
London Sewerage System
The London Sewerage System was a revolutionary project that transformed the city’s sanitation and helped reduce the spread of diseases such as cholera. It was designed and constructed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette in the mid-19th century and is still in use today.
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge, spanning over the East River in New York City, was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1883. It quickly became an iconic symbol of American engineering and has since been recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Panama Canal
The Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, was one of the most ambitious engineering projects of its time. Completed in 1914, it significantly reduced travel time and costs for ships and continues to be a vital trade route today.
Hoover Dam
Hoover Dam, located on the border of Arizona and Nevada, was built during the Great Depression and provided thousands of jobs to workers. This massive concrete arch-gravity dam generates hydroelectric power and remains a popular attraction for tourists.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, spanning the Golden Gate Strait in San Francisco, California, is another iconic symbol of American engineering. Built in the 1930s, it is one of the most photographed bridges in the world and is known for its distinctive orange color.
The Seven Wonders of the Medieval World
The medieval period, also known as the Middle Ages, saw the rise and fall of powerful empires and the creation of magnificent structures that still stand today. Here are seven wonders of the medieval world that showcase the ingenuity and grandeur of this era.
Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is a former cathedral turned mosque that is now a museum. Its construction was completed in the 6th century AD and is famous for its massive dome and intricate Byzantine architecture.
Colosseum
The Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater in Rome, Italy, was the largest of its kind when it was built in the 1st century AD. It could hold up to 80,000 spectators and hosted various events, including gladiator fights and mock sea battles.
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an extensive series of fortifications built over centuries to protect China from invaders. It stretches for over 13,000 miles and is considered to be one of the most impressive architectural achievements in history.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a famous bell tower in Pisa, Italy, known for its distinctive lean. Its construction began in the 12th century, and it has since become a popular tourist attraction due to its unique appearance.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Built in the 15th century, it served as a sacred site and is now a popular destination for tourists to marvel at its impressive stone structures and stunning mountain views.
Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris, also known as Notre-Dame Cathedral, is a medieval Catholic cathedral in Paris, France. Its construction began in the 12th century and features Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and iconic gargoyles.
Château de Versailles
Château de Versailles, located just outside of Paris, is a beautiful palace that served as the royal residence of the French monarchs from the 17th to the 18th century. Its extravagant design and grand gardens make it a must-visit wonder of the medieval world.
The Seven Wonders of the Solar System
While we often focus on the wonders of our own planet, there are countless extraordinary sights and phenomena in our solar system that are equally incredible. Here are seven wonders of the solar system that showcase the vastness and complexity of our universe.
The Great Red Spot on Jupiter
The Great Red Spot is a massive storm on the planet Jupiter that has been raging for at least 300 years. It is larger than the Earth and is so powerful that it can create winds up to 400 miles per hour.
Saturn’s Rings
Saturn’s iconic rings are made up of countless particles of ice and rock, ranging in size from tiny grains to large boulders. They are believed to have formed from the debris of comets or moons that broke apart due to Saturn’s strong gravitational pull.
Olympus Mons on Mars
Olympus Mons is the largest known volcano in the solar system, located on the planet Mars. It stands at over 72,000 feet tall and is about three times taller than Mount Everest, making it a truly spectacular sight.
Enceladus’ Geysers
Enceladus, one of Saturn’s many moons, is known for its geysers that shoot out plumes of water vapor and ice into space. This moon is considered to be a prime candidate for life in our solar system due to the presence of liquid water under its icy surface.
The Great Dark Spot on Neptune
Similar to the Great Red Spot on Jupiter, Neptune also has a massive dark spot on its surface. However, this spot appears and disappears, changing in size and location over time, making it a mysterious wonder to observe.
Valles Marineris on Mars
Valles Marineris is a system of canyons on Mars that spans over 2,500 miles in length and is up to 6 miles deep. It is believed to have formed through a combination of tectonic and erosional processes and is a breathtaking sight to behold.
Cassini Division in Saturn’s Rings
The Cassini Division is a gap in Saturn’s rings that is over 2,980 miles wide. It was discovered by Italian astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini and is caused by the gravitational pull of Saturn’s moon Mimas.
Conclusion
From ancient wonders to modern marvels, natural phenomena to man-made structures, the world is full of incredible sights and creations that continue to awe and inspire us. Whether it’s on our own planet or beyond in the vastness of space, these wonders serve as a reminder of the limitless potential of human ingenuity and the beauty of our world. As we continue to discover and explore, there will surely be more wonders to add to our ever-growing list.
