What Are the 7 Manmade Wonders of the World

What Are the 7 Manmade Wonders of the World

Throughout history, mankind has demonstrated incredible creativity, innovation, and architectural prowess. From ancient civilizations to modern engineering marvels, there are numerous manmade wonders that continue to captivate our imaginations. While there are many lists of notable structures, the most widely recognized designation for the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World includes the Great Wall of China, Petra, Christ the Redeemer, Machu Picchu, Chichen Itza, the Colosseum, and the Taj Mahal.

1. Great Wall of China: Spanning over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall of China is an awe-inspiring testament to human determination. Built to protect China from invasions, this iconic structure is not only a massive defensive fortification but also a symbol of Chinese history and culture.

2. Petra: Located in modern-day Jordan, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking rock-cut architecture. Carved into rose-red cliffs, the ancient city of Petra features intricate temples, tombs, and dwellings that date back to the Nabatean civilization.

3. Christ the Redeemer: Perched atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the Christ the Redeemer statue is an iconic symbol of Christianity and a magnificent piece of art. Standing at 98 feet tall, this colossal statue offers mesmerizing views of the city below.

4. Machu Picchu: Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is a well-preserved Incan citadel that offers a glimpse into the ancient civilization’s sophisticated architecture and engineering. Surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes, this archaeological site is a popular destination for tourists worldwide.

5. Chichen Itza: Situated on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza is a vast pre-Columbian city that showcases the remarkable achievements of the Mayan civilization. Dominated by the iconic El Castillo pyramid, this archaeological site is a testament to the Mayans’ astronomical knowledge and advanced architectural techniques.

6. Colosseum: Located in Rome, Italy, the Colosseum is an extraordinary amphitheater that once hosted spectacular gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. This remarkable structure, with its intricate design and immense size, is an iconic symbol of ancient Rome’s grandeur.

7. Taj Mahal: Regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, the Taj Mahal is a mausoleum located in Agra, India. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, this architectural masterpiece is renowned for its stunning white marble exterior, intricate carvings, and exquisite gardens.

FAQs:

1. Who decided on the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World?
The list of the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World was created by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based organization that conducted a global poll to determine the most deserving structures.

2. Are the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World the oldest manmade structures?
No, while they are undoubtedly ancient, there are older manmade structures that did not make it onto this particular list. For example, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are believed to be the oldest and only remaining wonder of the original Seven Wonders of the World.

3. Can I visit all of the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World?
Yes, all of these wonders are open to visitors. However, it’s important to check individual travel restrictions and requirements, as some locations may have specific regulations or limitations.

4. How were these wonders chosen over other notable structures?
The New7Wonders Foundation conducted a global voting campaign, allowing people from around the world to nominate and vote for their favorite manmade structures. The seven wonders were selected based on the number of votes received.

5. Can I vote for new wonders to be added to the list?
The New7Wonders Foundation closed the voting process after the selection of the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World. However, there are other initiatives and organizations that create their own lists of notable structures, allowing for public participation.

6. Are there any manmade wonders in North America on the list?
Yes, Chichen Itza, located in Mexico, represents North America on the list of the Seven Manmade Wonders of the World.

7. Can I explore the interior of all these wonders?
While visitors can explore the interior of many of these wonders, certain areas may be restricted for preservation or safety reasons. It’s always advisable to check with the respective authorities or guides for specific access details.

8. Are there any other notable manmade wonders worth visiting?
Absolutely! There are countless other remarkable manmade structures around the world that showcase human ingenuity and creativity. Some notable examples include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, The Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sydney Opera House, and the Statue of Liberty in New York.