The New 7 Wonders of the World

Global Vote Makes New Wonders a Reality

Mar 4, 2008 Lindsay Foss

Over 100 million votes were cast and on July 7, 2007, in Lisbon, the New Seven Wonders of the World were announced.

Around the world, people voted for their favorite wonder via the Internet, phone and text messaging. This was the first time that children were allowed to vote in a global election and they made up the largest group of voters. Of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza is the only remaining, which incidentally prompted the world-wide vote.

The New Seven Wonders

  • The Taj Mahal (Agra, India)

Construction of the Taj Mahal began in the 17th Century, in memory of Muslim Emperor, Shah Jahan’s late wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This massive monument is built out of marble and jewels and is a true testament of love.

  • The Great Wall of China (China)

The Great Wall of China is known as the largest man-made monument and was constructed to keep Mongolian forces out of the country. Many lost their lives during the building process and to some, the Great Wall of China is referred to as "the longest cemetery in the world."

  • The Roman Colosseum (Rome, Italy)

The Colosseum, or Flavian Amphitheater as it was once called, was built during the 1st Century AD and is most famous for hosting deadly battles among gladiators. Whatever was happening in the great Colosseum, the main purpose was to keep the spectators entertained.

  • Christ Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

High on top of the Corcovado mountain is the Christ Redeemer, a 38 meter-tall statue of Jesus Christ. The statue was introduced to the city in 1931 and has become quite a tourist attraction.

  • Petra (Jordan)

Once a flourishing city carved by the Nabataeans, an ancient Semitic people, out of red rock, is now a memory of spectacular architecture and ingenuity. During the Roman rule of Emperor Trajan, the city of Petra was seized. Over the centuries, Petra has endured many earthquakes and has suffered many damages but still continues to draw tourists from all over.

  • Machu Picchu (Peru)

Hidden within the Amazon Jungle lies an ancient Inca city situated on the mountain named, Machu Picchu. It is referred to as the city in the clouds and the exact purpose of the settlement remains speculated by many.

  • The Pyramid at Chichen Itza (Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico)

A large Mayan city on the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza is a very popular attraction in Mexico. The Kukulkan Pyramid, standing at about 75-feet tall, sees thousands of visitors each year climbing it’s great stone steps.

Seven Human Virtues

Along with choosing the new Seven Wonders, people also voted for the Seven Human Virtues that accompanied them.

Taj Mahal represents Passion

Great Wall of China represents Perseverance

Roman Colosseum represents Joy

Christ Redeemer represents Openess

Petra represents Protection

Machu Picchu represents Dedication

Chichen Itza represents Knowledge

The copyright of the article The New 7 Wonders of the World in S Europe Travel is owned by Lindsay Foss. Permission to republish The New 7 Wonders of the World in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
What do you think about this article?
NOTE: Because you are not a Suite101 member, your comment will be moderated before it is viewable.
post your comment
What is 0+10?