If ever there was a list of places that you need to see before you die, the 7 Wonders of the World are it. In case you missed the announcement of the new 7 Wonders, we’ll be recapping them here and we’ll try to give some useful information about them. We won’t be going through them in any particular order, and all of them are equally worth checking out as soon as you get the chance. So lets get started…
1. The Roman Colosseum, Italy
One of the greatest feats of engineering of the Classical period, the Colosseum stands broken today, but its glory can still be seen. Although successive invasions of Rome have deprived the monument of its decorative plating and its statues – even some of its structure – the truth is its charm still draws in tourists from all over the world just to see it.
2. Petra, Jordan
Tucked away in rocky chasms, Petra is a city carved in the rock. It is so well hidden that its location remained a secret until it was discovered in 1812. People are usually surprised to know that the major architectural influence on Petra is Byzantine. This UNESCO World Heritage site is something that can hardly be described, and it’s puzzling nature and it’s unusual construction, as well as its beauty, make it an excellent addition to the 7 Wonders.
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
This large statue of Jesus Christ that towers over the city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is an amazing sight and a symbol of the country itself. Seeing it in pictures does not give you an accurate idea of its size: it is 130ft (almost 40 meters) tall. This statue inspired similar statues built in places like Lisbon or as far away as Dili in East Timor.
4. Great Wall of China
It’s hard to imagine that this wall was originally built as an actual fortification. But the truth is its extent and durability helped China thwart invasions and helped it consolidate its borders. It’s now a common tourist attraction and one of the major symbols of a country already rich in culture. Visiting the Great Wall is like walking down a path of time – something that cannot easily be described.
5. Chichen Itza, Mexico
One of the most welcome surprises into this group, Chichen Itza is a great Mayan complex complete with an amazing step pyramid. There is much still to discover in this great city, as new details seem to be unearthed every time an expedition sets camp there. But for the average tourist it is a stepping stone into a world and a culture that doesn’t seem to get the attention it deserves.
6. Machu Picchu, Peru
From Mayans to Incans – Machu Picchu is an amazing city build atop a high mountain. It’s also known as the Incan’s Lost City, and it’s easy to figure out why. There was mention of this city in some sources, but it remained hidden until 1911. It escaped destruction at the hands of the Spanish and now can be seen the closest to its former glory as we can have it.
7. The Taj Mahal, India
Considered the greatest proof of love set in stone, the Taj Mahal is India’s greatest symbol. Built in the 1600’s, it is today one of the greatest architectural wonders, and deservingly on the 7 Wonders of the World.
About the author: This article was written by Holly Adams from Coupon Croc. Visit for a Thomson discount code before you book to visit any of those wonders above!
Credits: Photo courtesy of Ali Taylor.