In July 2007, a worldwide poll was taken in which people could vote on the Internet or call by phone to give their personal opinion on what the Seven Wonders of the World should truly be. These findings, recorded by the New 7 Wonders website (see Resources), reflect the opinion of over 100 million voters.
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
- Once used for gladiatorial contests in ancient Rome, the Colosseum is one of the greatest works in Roman architecture. This brilliantly-constructed elliptical amphitheatre is capable of seating over 50,000 people.
Taj Mahal, India
- Combining elements from Persian, Indian and Islamic architecture, the Taj Mahal in India is a beautiful, white-domed mausoleum set around sprawling gardens.
Great Wall of China
- Stretching over 4,000 miles, the Great Wall of China is an architectural wonder which was not built without sacrifice. Approximately 2 to 3 million Chinese died building this wall.
Ancient City of Petra, Jordan
- Running from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aquaba, the ancient city of Petra is best-known for its amazing display of rock-cut architecture.
Machu Picchu, Peru and Chichén Itzá, Mexico
- Comprised of classical Incan dry stone wall architecture, Machu Picchu in Peru is one of the most familiar symbols of the Inca Empire. The Temple of the Sun and the Room of the Three Windows are highlights of this ancient civilization.
Built by the ancient Mayans, Chichén Itzá houses the Great Temple of Kukulkan, which is 79 feet tall and has four sides with 91 steps each. The four sides added together equal 365; the number of days in a single calendar year.
Christ the Redeemer Statue, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Standing 120 feet tall atop the Corvocado Mountain of the Tijuica Forest National Park, the breathtaking Christ the Redeemer statue is a 635-ton symbol of Christianity in Brazil.
Machu Picchu
7,000 feet above sea level and nestled on a small hilltop between the Andean Mountain Range, the majestic city soars above the Urabamba Valley below. The Incan built structure has been deemed the “Lost Cities”, unknown until its relatively recent discovery in 1911. Archaeologists estimate that approximately 1200 people could have lived in the area, though many theorize it was most likely a retreat for Incan rulers. Due to it’s isolation from the rest of Peru, living in the area full time would require traveling great distances just to reach the nearest village.
Separated into three areas - agricultural, urban, and religious - the structures are arranged so that the function of the buildings matches the form of their surroundings. The agricultural terracing and aqueducts take advantage of the natural slopes; the lower areas contain buildings occupied by farmers and teachers, and the most important religious areas are located at the crest of the hill, overlooking the lush Urubamba Valley thousands of feet below.
Hikers, tourists, and the early explorers describe similar emotions as they climb their way through the Inca Trail. Many call the experience magical. Glancing out from the Funerary Rock Hut on all the temples, fields, terraces, and baths seems to take you to another time. Blending in with the hillside itself, many say the area creates a seamless and elegant green paradise, making it a must for anyone who travels to Peru.
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