The " 7 Wonders of the World " is a fascinating concept that has captured the imagination of millions of people around the world. These extraordinary works, the fruit of human ingenuity and creativity, have become symbols of lost cultures and civilizations, tangible testimonies of our history. Let's explore together the meaning and evolution of this concept, discovering why these wonders continue to enchant and inspire travelers from all over the world.
The 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
Since ancient times, humanity has always sought to identify the most impressive and fascinating works of its time. Around the 3rd century BC, Antipater of Sidon compiled the first list of the "7 Wonders of the Ancient World", selecting the most majestic and iconic creations of the classical era.
Among these:
The Pyramid of Cheops at Giza , Egypt, the only one of the Seven Ancient Wonders still largely intact, a symbol of the engineering and power of the pharaohs.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon , a legendary green oasis in the middle of the Mesopotamian desert, described as a series of raised terraces planted with a variety of plants.
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia , Greece, a colossal gold and ivory work representing the Greek god Zeus, created by the sculptor Phidias.
The Temple of Artemis at Ephes or, in Asia Minor, an imposing sanctuary dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, famous for its architecture and size.
The Colossus of Rhodes , a gigantic bronze statue celebrating the victory of the Rhodians against the Syrians.
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus , a majestic funerary monument erected in honour of the satrap of Caria, Mausolus.
The Alessandri Lighthouse , one of the first and most important structures of its kind, a lighthouse of enormous height.
Sadly, many of these wonders have been lost over the centuries, victims of time, war and destruction. What remains, however, continues to enchant and inspire visitors from all over the world.
The 7 Wonders of the Modern World
Over time, the concept of "wonders of the world" has evolved, reflecting the changes and new achievements of humanity. In 2007, through a global survey, a new list of " 7 Wonders of the Modern World " was drawn up, which includes more recent and representative works of the different cultures of the planet.
Among these:
The Great Wall of China , an imposing fortification stretching for thousands of kilometers, a symbol of the greatness of the Chinese empire.
Chichén Itzá in Mexico , an ancient Mayan city famous for its step pyramid and astronomical complexes.
The Colosseum in Rome , a Roman amphitheatre, symbol of the empire and site of bloody spectacles and games.
Machu Picchu in Peru , an ancient Inca city built in an inaccessible place in the Andes, symbol of the Inca civilization.
Petra in Jordan , an ancient rock-cut city, famous for its colorful temples and monuments.
The Taj Mahal in India , a white marble mausoleum, a symbol of love and beauty, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife.
Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro , Brazil, a colossal statue that dominates the city, a symbol of the Catholic faith in Brazil.
These new wonders, so different from the ancient ones, reflect the evolution of human civilization and the cultural diversity of our planet. Each of them embodies fascinating stories, ancient traditions and the ingenuity of peoples who have left an indelible mark on the history of humanity.
Why are they called "wonders"?
These extraordinary works are called "wonders" because they represent the pinnacle of human ingenuity, artistic creativity, and technical mastery of their time. They are monuments that inspire awe, admiration, and wonder because of their beauty, size, and complexity.
They are tangible testimonies to the power of our imagination, our determination and our ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable limits. These wonders remind us that, when united by a common purpose, human beings are capable of creating works that defy time and nature.
When to visit?
The best time to visit these wonders depends on several factors, such as the climate, local holidays and tourist flow. In general, it is advisable to avoid the high season, when temperatures are too high or too low and when the sites are more crowded.
Spring and fall are often the best times to visit these destinations, when the weather is milder and the tourist crowds are less crowded. Additionally, some sites have periods of local celebrations and festivals that can add a touch of authenticity and vitality to your experience.
Conclusion
The " 7 Wonders of the World " is a fascinating concept that allows us to explore our past and marvel at the extraordinary achievements of humanity. These iconic works, the fruit of ingenuity, creativity and determination, continue to inspire and enchant visitors from around the world.
Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover or simply a curious explorer, discovering these wonders is a unique experience that will leave you with an indelible memory. So, prepare to immerse yourself in an extraordinary journey through the centuries and cultures, to discover these majestic works that have shaped our world.
