The world is wonderful – entirely full of wonder. The more time we spend exploring this vast world that we call home, the more we are left in awe of its beauty. There are seven wonders of the world so splendid and ironic because of their architectural genius and historical significance that we had to share them with you. Since we know you are always thinking about your next grand adventure, consider these new seven wonders of the world when planning your upcoming trip. They are sure to take your breath away.
Taj Mahal
Credit: Derek Story
Location: IndiaThe Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is nothing short of breathtaking. The mausoleum is architecturally impressive and holds historical significance within its ivory-white marble. Shah Jahan, the fifth Mogul Emperor, built the masterpiece as a memorial to his deceased wife. The tomb of Shah Jahan's wife is the centerpiece of the complex. Breaking ground in 1632, this wonder took over two decades to complete and cost millions of dollars.
Within the 42-acre complex, there is a mosque, a guest house, and lavish gardens that lead up to the tomb. Minarets surround the 240-foot tomb and etched onto the exterior of the structure is the Thuluth script. At dawn and at dusk, the white marble of the Taj Mahal reflects a soft, pink hue, which causes the mausoleum to appear even more magnificent and majestic. The Taj Mahal is rightfully amid the seven wonders of the world.
Machu Picchu
Location: PeruMachu Picchu is an ancient Incan city located in the Cusco Region of Peru. Built in the 1400s, the site interestingly remained untouched until 1911 when archaeologists discovered the ruins of this ancient city. Machu Picchu also sits nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. The site is nestled between two looming mountain peaks, which means the view is mesmerizing from the top.
The Roman Colosseum
Credit: Braden Collum
Location: RomeLocated at the center of the city of Rome, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater to have ever been built. Though it has been almost 2,000 years since the construction of the Colosseum, the iconic structure continues to influence modern-day amphitheater designs. Some 50,000 to 80,000 spectators used to gather in the Colosseum to view battle reenactments, animal hunts, executions, public spectacles, and gladiatorial contests. Given the 2,000 years that have passed since the creation of the Roman Colosseum, it is an amazement that the structure has kept its fundamental shape and construction.
Chichen Itza
Credit: iorni
Location: MexicoLocated on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. Some time between the 800 and 900 AD is when the city was built. The most famous ruin within the city of Chichen Itza is the Pyramid of Kukulkan. This structure is also known as El Castillo. The photo may look deceiving, but the structure soars tall at 98 feet.
Christ the Redeemer Statue
Credit: Raphael Nogueira
Location: BrazilLocated in Rio de Janerio, Brazil atop Corcovado mountain is this iconic statue of Jesus. Constructed between 1922 and 1931, the statue stands at an incredible 98 feet tall and has a 92-foot wingspan. Because the monument is absolutely massive, it is one of the largest Art Deco statues in the world.
Petra
Credit: Brian Kairuz
Location: JordanLocated in southwest Jordan is the ancient city of Petra. Petra, Greek for “rock,” showcases remarkable rock-cut architecture from within the sandstone cliffs. Built as early as 312 BC, historical evidence suggests that the city had their own resourceful water collecting systems. These impressive water systems included the use of cisterns, water channels, and ceramic pipes. Petra is also known as the Rose City, due to the creamy rose complexion of the stone. All around, Petra is an intricate and exquisite archaeological marvel.
The Great Wall of China
Credit: Hanson Lu
Location: ChinaThe Great Wall of China is an ancient and modern wonder. The wall spans 4,000 miles and goes across the historical northern border of China. Quin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, built the Great Wall around 200 BC in an effort to maintain and protect borders. Because of the large amount of land that the wall covers, it remains the world's longest man-made structure. To see the age and strength of the Great Wall wrap up and down mountainous terrain is a sight to behold.
Which of these new seven wonders of the world is next on your to-visit list?
Whichever you decide, it'll be sure to blow you away in the best way. Make sure to share your experience with us in the comments below!
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