The New 7 Wonders of the World

Back in 2007, more than 100 million people have submitted their votes to help select the new 7 wonders of the world, all of which are man-made landmarks that represent global heritage throughout history.

These are the most impressive constructions on earth:

1) Machu Picchu, Peru

This city, built in the 15^th century by Emperor Pachacútec, is one of the last remaining Inca settlements found in Cusco, not too far from Lima. It is believed that its residents were whipped out by an outbreak of smallpox; after the Spaniards conquered the Incan Empire, Machu Picchu remained forgotten for over 3 centuries, until 1911 when it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham.

2) Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China was built to link fortifications and improve the Chinese defense system against Mongol troops. This is the largest man-made construction on earth; it is so enormous that some even say you can spot it from space!

 

3) Christ Redeemer, Brazil

The statue of Jesus Christ standing on the Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro is over 38 meters tall and took no less than 5 years to build! This impressive construction, designed by Heitor da Silva Costa and built under the supervision of French sculptor Paul Landowski, portrays the warmth and openness of Brazilian people, who welcome visitors with open arms.

4) The Colosseum, Italy

All roads lead to Rome! This incredible structure, built in celebration of the Roman Empire, was an arena used for gladiator fights; an interesting must-know, the Colosseum was in fact what inspired the shape of modern sport stadiums.

5) Petra, Jordan

From Italy to the Arabian Dessert, this structure found in the state of Jordan, was once the heart of the Nabataean Empire ruled by King Aretas IV. Although initially established as a trade center, it later became recognized as the place where Moses made water come out of stone. The oldest monument in Petra is its monastery, which was built in 1BC. In 1985, this popular tourist attraction has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

6) Pyramid at Chichén Itzá, Mexico

This pyramid in the ancient city of Chichén Itzá, is the last and most famous Mayan temple; it was not only a place of worship and sacrifice, it also represented the political and economic strength of the Mayan civilization.

7) Taj Mahal, India

 The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum built by the Muslim Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife Mumtaz Mahal. The building is in fact a complex of structures, where Persian, Ottoman, Islamic and Indian architectural elements are combined to form a most impressive construction.    

What do you think of the new 7 Wonders of the World? Have you visited any of them?