7 Wonders of the Ancient World were awe-inspiring structures that symbolized the hard work, skill, ambition, and grandeur of ancient civilizations, and more importantly Engineer excellence. Whether it’s from the pyramids of Giza to the lighthouse of Alexandria, each wonder has a unique story to tell, showing us a unique culture, way of life, and artwork and architecture into the flourishing cultures that thrived many centuries ago.
When we explore ancient wonders of the world, we come to know that we are captivated by the tales of Pharaohs, Temples, Monuments, lighthouses, and many more, having their values and virtues at that time. Here, we also should know that human imagination, determination, and hard work remind us own limitless potential is more crucial than other.
So, If you are a person, like history, enthusiast, an adventurer, or simply curious about the wonders of the past, I heartily welcome you to read the article below along with some of the interesting facts about it.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are collections of incredible architecture and limitless human potentials of People of Ancient. It is very bad to say that, today we can see and explore only one of the original Seven Wonders that is the Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.
7 Wonders of the World and Its Facts.
So, here are the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and Its Facts;
1. The Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt)
When we talk about ancient wonders, primarily we should discuss The Great Pyramid of Giza. It is the world’s tallest site fully built by humans, Constructed around 2560 BC. It is known as the oldest and largest of the three pyramids located on the outskirts of present-day Cairo, Egypt. As per the study, a total of 1,00,000 laborers were used and it took 20 years to complete this great pyramid.
Only one Ancient wonders that is existed today. This Pyramid of Giza is situated near the west bank of the Nile River. Built as a tomb for the 4th Egyptian Dynasty called Pharaoh Khufu. He was an extraordinary feat of engineering; pyramid includes many temples.
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Interesting Facts about the Great Pyramid of Giza:
- The Great Pyramid of Giza is 481 feet tall.
- The chambers of Pyramids are empty.
- It was the tallest man-made structure in the world with 4000 years of long history.
- As per the study, more than 2.3 million stone blocks were used to construct this Pyramid.
- The primary purpose of the Construction of the Pyramid is the study of the moon, continental gravity, and Orion constellation.
- It took approximately 20 years to construct.
- Every year the Great Pyramid welcomes more than 14 million tourists every year.
2. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon (Iraq)
Another historical site is The Hanging Garden of Babylon is witness to one of the ancient wonders of the world. The exotic nature of the garden is familiar to olden Greeks with interesting surroundings. The hanging garden here is a more attractive one. This hanging garden was built around 600 BC shining with trees, shrubs, and vines, and includes mud bricks and large green mountains.
This beautiful garden was built by King Nebuchadnezzar II, from 605 to 562 BCE. No physical remains have been found today. It was said to have been a stunning oasis of greenery and vibrant flora.
Interesting Facts about the Hanging Garden of Babylon:
- There is no physical evidence that the Babylon Garden ever existed. And there is no solid proof from the archaeological department for that.
- This garden is 75 feet high.
- The whole garden looks like a Mountain.
- The name Babylon is “Gate of God” or “Gate for the Gods”.
- Not everyone believes that the Hanging Garden does not exist.
- Some researchers believed that the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were destroyed due to the Earthquake or War.
- Interestingly, the Hanging green garden is located in the middle of the Desert. However, some assume that how they maintain greenness throughout the hot seasons?
- Hanging garden was built for Queen Amytis (King Nebuchadnezzar II’s wife).
3. The Statue of Zeus at Olympia (Greece)
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia was developed by Sculpt by Phidias in around 430 BC, and it was destroyed in 426 AD due to fire. This world famous sculpture built in Ivory. This enormous statue of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods, stood in the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Greece. In his right hand, he holds life a statue of Nike (goddess of victory) and in his left hand, a type of scepter situated the head of the eagle.
This statue is 40 feet tall, likely his head is very close to touching the ceiling of the temple. It depicted Zeus seated on a throne, holding a scepter and wearing a crown. Some argue that, this statue later moved to Turkey and was destroyed there.
Interesting Facts about The Statue of Zeus at Olympia:
- Made of Ivory and Gold (hair, beard, shoes, robes).
- Commissioned by the Elis people.
- Housed in the temple of Zeus in Olympia.
- Probably, This statue was destroyed during the 5th century AD.
- Left Lasting Impact on the Greek and Sculptures.
- Precious jewelry is used to craft the eyes of this statue.
- Olympic games here in Greece have been held in honor of King Zeus.
- Phidias, Built this statue of King Zeus approval.
4. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Turkey)
The temple of Artemis at Ephesus is situated western coast of Asia Minor. Constructed around 550 BC, this temple was dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, known as Diana to the Romans. Its size is attractive that’s why it is known as one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world. This temple was rebuilt many times by the King Croesus of Lydia. Marble and gold were used to construct this huge temple.
Its foundation was over 180 by 350 feet at least twice the size of the Parthenon. It showcased stunning architectural beauty and was one of the largest temples of its time, standing proudly for over 1,200 years.
Some of the Interesting Facts about The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus:
- The temple of the house contained many incredible artworks.
- Hunt, the moon, and wilderness are the major Gods in the Temple of Artemis.
- The first temple was destroyed by the Flood.
- This temple is also pronounced like the Temple of Diana.
- This Temple was destroyed 3 times and rebuilt again and again.
- It took 10 years to complete.
- In the year 1869 John Turtle discovered this temple.
- You can see the Name of the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus in the Bible.
5. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Turkey)
Known for its 444 unique types of designs and sculptures from top to bottom and even for its marble structure, architectural design, and dimension. Built-in 353 BC as a tomb for King Mausolus of Caria, a governor of the Persian empire, the Mausoleum was a grand structure furnished with intricate sculptures and ornate architecture. This mausoleum was destroyed by the earthquake in 1404 AD.
This site is almost square, 14 stories tall, and 10,000 feet of base. It also contained 9 massive columns, Pyramids, and chariots. It became the example for grand tombs and mausoleums throughout the pages of history.
Interesting Facts about The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus:
- It was designed by architects Satyros and Pythius.
- 45 meters in height.
- Charles Tomas Newton was the first person who discovered the ruins of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in 1852.
- It is the last remaining monument out of 7 ancient wonders of the world.
- Leochares, Bryaxis, Scopas, and Timotheus are 4 sculptures hired to craft this monument.
- One of the few constructions during ancient Greece that held both statues of people and animals.
- It contains a beautiful marble structure, architectural design, and dimensions.
6. The Colossus of Rhodes (Greece)
The Colossus of Rhodes is a huge statue built in honor of Helios, a Greek God (Sun). The core thing in this statue is the Size. Which stands 70 cubits feet tall (The tallest during that time). Built around 280 BC, but destroyed due to an earthquake in 226 B.C. This Colossus was built with Bronze, Iron, and Stones. According to researchers, this Colossus of Rhodes most probably settled in Mandraki harbor.
The people of Rhodes city believe that Helios saved the city’s people from a terrible siege. This statue fell due to the 226 B.C. due to earthquake and it remained till 654 A.D. in the ground.
Some of the Interesting facts about The Colossus of Rhodes:
- It took 12 years to complete with the help of bronze, iron, and stones.
- Both the Colossus of Rhodes and the Statue of Liberty are built as symbols of Freedom.
- This statue was completed 54 year of age just before it was destroyed in a massive earthquake.
- As per the study, more than 900 Camels are used to carry metals and Scrapes.
- The interior design of this statue is made by the Stone only.
- King of Egypt, Ptolemy III tried to rebuild the statue, but Rhodes refused.
- Rhodes believes that Helios was angered and created an earthquake in order to destroy himself.
7. The Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt)
The Lighthouse of Alexandria is famous because of its size and speed. Built around 280 BC located on the island of Pharos, in the harbor of Alexandria. This lighthouse is totally different from modern lighthouses. This lighthouse was a monumental structure that stood over 100 meters tall with 3 stages, all slopes inward. It look like; the base was square, the middle was octagonal, and the top was Cylindrical. Its main purpose was to provide light in order to guide ships into the busy harbor of Alexandria, making it one of the tallest man-made structures of its time.
Inside this lighthouse, there is a large curved mirror, which reflects the sunlight during the day and even at night (fire at night). Sailors can see harbors up to 35 Miles with the help of a lighthouse. Due to a tragic earthquake in 1323, this lighthouse was destroyed.
Some of the Interesting Facts about The Lighthouse of Alexandria are;
- It was built by the order of King Egypt, Ptolemy I.
- It took 14 to 18 years of time for the whole construction.
- Light was built according to Greek architecture.
- Exact picture of the lighthouse appearance after the Arab traveler AI- Idrisi.
- During the 9th century its base was converts into a Mosque.
- A Scaled-down replica of the Faros of the lighthouse is located in China today.
- It was located at the entrance to Alexandria, Egypt.
The Seven Ancient Wonders of the World reflect the hard work, artwork, and ambition of ancient civilizations. More importantly their Engineering Excellence. Out of 7, only one remains intact today, (Pyramid) and rest all even today also continue to capture the imagination of a travel enthusiast and even for adventure seekers. As a traveler, it is very important to know its existence and importance in the point of tourism and ancient lifestyles.
Q: What are the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World?
A: 1. The Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt)
2. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon (Iraq)
3. The Statue of Zeus at Olympia (Greece)
4. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Turkey)
5. The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Turkey)
6. The Colossus of Rhodes (Greece)
7. The Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt)
