Discovering the New 7 Wonders of the World
The question "Where is the new 7 Wonders of the World?" sparks curiosity in travelers and history buffs alike. Unlike the ancient list, which focused on the Mediterranean and Middle East, the New7Wonders initiative, a global poll conducted by a Swiss foundation, aimed to identify seven new marvels through public voting. This modern selection spans continents and cultures, showcasing humanity's incredible achievements in architecture, engineering, and artistry across different eras.
A Comprehensive Guide to the New 7 Wonders
Let's embark on a virtual tour to pinpoint the exact locations of these magnificent sites:
1. The Great Wall of China
- Location: The Great Wall stretches across northern China, with various sections accessible from numerous provinces. Popular and well-preserved sections include Badaling and Mutianyu, both relatively close to Beijing. Other significant portions can be found in provinces like Hebei, Gansu, and Shanxi.
- Description: This colossal defensive fortification, built over centuries by various dynasties, is a testament to ancient Chinese engineering and military strategy. Its sheer scale is breathtaking, winding over mountains and through valleys.
2. Petra, Jordan
- Location: Petra is an archaeological city in southern Jordan, situated in a desert valley between the Dead Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba. It's accessible from the modern city of Wadi Musa.
- Description: This ancient Nabataean city is carved directly into vibrant sandstone cliffs. Famous for its iconic treasury (Al-Khazneh) and its intricate rock-cut architecture, Petra offers a glimpse into a lost civilization.
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
- Location: The colossal Art Deco statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, overlooking the city.
- Description: This iconic statue of Jesus Christ with outstretched arms is a symbol of Christianity and a cultural icon of Brazil. It was designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski and built by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, with collaboration from French engineer Albert Caquot.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
- Location: Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel located above the Sacred Valley. It is accessible via train from Cusco or by hiking the famous Inca Trail.
- Description: This 15th-century Incan site is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction, its panoramic views, and the mystery surrounding its purpose and abandonment. It is a masterpiece of Incan engineering and urban planning.
5. Chichen Itza, Mexico
- Location: Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian city built by the Maya civilization in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. It is located between the cities of Valladolid and Merida.
- Description: This archaeological site features a stunning array of Maya and Toltec ruins, most famously the El Castillo pyramid (Temple of Kukulcan). It was a major ceremonial center, showcasing advanced astronomical knowledge and architectural prowess.
6. The Colosseum, Italy
- Location: The Colosseum is an oval amphitheater in the center of Rome, Italy, located just east of the Roman Forum.
- Description: This ancient Roman amphitheater, once the site of gladiator contests and public spectacles, is a monumental symbol of Imperial Rome's architectural and engineering capabilities. Its elliptical design and tiered seating were revolutionary for its time.
7. Taj Mahal, India
- Location: The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in Agra, India.
- Description: Commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a breathtaking example of Mughal architecture. It is celebrated for its symmetry, intricate inlay work, and its serene beauty.
A Note on the "New7Wonders of Nature"
It's important to distinguish the New7Wonders of the World from the New7Wonders of Nature, another global poll that concluded in 2011. The New7Wonders of Nature are geographically diverse natural sites, including the Amazon Rainforest, Halong Bay (Vietnam), Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil), Jeonju (South Korea), Table Mountain (South Africa), and the Puerto Princesa Underground River (Philippines).
Frequently Asked Questions
How was the New 7 Wonders of the World selected?
The New7Wonders of the World were selected through a global poll conducted by the New7Wonders Foundation. Millions of votes were cast via internet and phone from around the world, allowing people to choose their favorite from a list of 21 existing monuments.
Why is there no "new" wonder in my country?
The selection process was based on a global vote, and not every country could have a representative. The goal was to highlight humanity's most significant and awe-inspiring architectural and historical achievements, regardless of their geographical origin.
When was the New 7 Wonders of the World announced?
The New 7 Wonders of the World were announced on July 7, 2007, in Lisbon, Portugal, during a grand ceremony.
Are these the only wonders of the world?
These are the results of a specific, modern poll. The concept of "wonders of the world" has evolved over time, with the ancient list being the most historically recognized. Many other sites around the globe are equally breathtaking and significant.
