Throughout history, human beings have created extraordinary structures that reflect their cultures, aspirations and technological prowess. Among these, the Seven Wonders of the World, both new and old, stand out as symbols of human ingenuity and artistic excellence. This article explores the history and legacy of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Check out our article on the New Seven Wonders of the World
here.
1. Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
The Great Pyramid of Giza, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, is a testament to the engineering genius of the ancient Egyptians. Built around 2560 BC as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, it originally stood at 146.6 metres and remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. Its precise construction, involving massive limestone blocks, continues to fascinate researchers and visitors alike.
2. Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Iraq
Legend has it that the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were created by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his homesick wife, Amytis. These terraced gardens, lush with trees and plants, were said to be an oasis in the desert. Although their existence and exact location remain subject to debate, they symbolise the ancient world’s mastery of engineering and irrigation.
3. Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Greece
Crafted by the renowned sculptor Phidias around 435 BC, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia was a monumental representation of the king of the Greek gods. Standing at about 12 metres tall, the statue was made of ivory and gold-plated bronze. It graced the Temple of Zeus for over 800 years before being lost to history, likely destroyed during the 5th century AD.
4. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, Turkey
The Temple of Artemis, located in Ephesus (modern-day Turkey), was a grand tribute to the Greek goddess of the hunt and wilderness. Completed around 550 BC, it was considered one of the largest temples of the ancient world. The temple was rebuilt several times after being destroyed by arson and plundering, with its final destruction occurring in 401 AD. Its grandeur and scale were unparalleled, symbolising the architectural and cultural achievements of its time.
5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Turkey
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was built around 350 BC as a tomb for Mausolus, a satrap of the Persian Empire, and his wife, Artemisia II. Standing at approximately 45 metres tall, it combined Greek, Egyptian and Lycian architectural elements. Its grandeur and intricacy set a precedent for monumental tombs, with the term “mausoleum” becoming synonymous with grand burial structures.
6. Colossus of Rhodes, Greece
The Colossus of Rhodes was a massive bronze statue of the sun god Helios, erected on the Greek island of Rhodes around 280 BC. Standing about 33 metres tall, it was one of the tallest statues of the ancient world. Although it stood for only 54 years before being toppled by an earthquake, its legacy as a symbol of unity and resilience endures.
7. Lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt
Built on the small island of Pharos around 280 BC, the Lighthouse of Alexandria guided sailors safely into the busy harbour of Alexandria, Egypt. Standing between 100 and 130 metres tall, it was one of the tallest man-made structures of its time. Its light, visible for miles, made it an engineering marvel and a symbol of Hellenistic ingenuity.