New7Wonders of the World
Introduction
The New7Wonders of the World is a contemporary list of seven remarkable constructions that were selected through a global poll organized by the New7Wonders Foundation. This initiative aimed to update the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which were primarily located around the Mediterranean basin and have largely been lost to history. The New7Wonders were chosen based on their architectural and cultural significance, as well as their ability to inspire awe and wonder in people across the globe.
Background and Selection Process
The New7Wonders Foundation, established by Swiss-Canadian filmmaker Bernard Weber, launched the campaign in 2000. The aim was to engage a global audience in selecting seven new wonders from a list of 200 existing monuments. The selection process involved several stages, including expert panels and public voting, which culminated in a final list announced on July 7, 2007, in Lisbon, Portugal. The campaign attracted over 100 million votes, highlighting the widespread interest and participation in the initiative.
The New7Wonders of the World
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an ancient series of fortifications that stretches across northern China. Originally constructed to protect Chinese states and empires from nomadic invasions, the wall is renowned for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. The wall's construction began as early as the 7th century BC, with significant expansions during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 AD). The Great Wall is a testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of ancient Chinese civilization.
Petra
Petra, located in present-day Jordan, is an archaeological city famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. Established as early as the 4th century BC, Petra was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and a major trading hub. The city is accessed through a narrow gorge called the Siq, leading to the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh), a monumental structure carved into the sandstone cliffs. Petra's unique blend of Eastern and Hellenistic architectural styles reflects its historical significance as a cultural crossroads.
Christ the Redeemer
The Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is an iconic symbol of Christianity and a masterpiece of modern engineering. Standing 30 meters tall atop the Corcovado Mountain, the statue overlooks the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by French artist Paul Landowski, Christ the Redeemer was completed in 1931. The statue's Art Deco style and its commanding presence make it a significant cultural and religious landmark.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. Built in the 15th century under the reign of Emperor Pachacuti, Machu Picchu is renowned for its sophisticated dry-stone construction and panoramic views. The site was largely unknown to the outside world until its rediscovery by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911. Machu Picchu's architectural ingenuity and its harmonious integration with the natural landscape exemplify the advanced engineering skills of the Inca civilization.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. The city was a major regional center during the Terminal Classic period (c. 800–1000 AD) and is known for its diverse architectural styles, which reflect a fusion of Maya and Toltec influences. The Temple of Kukulcán, also known as El Castillo, is the most prominent structure at Chichen Itza and is famous for its astronomical significance and the shadow phenomenon that occurs during the equinoxes.
Roman Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an ancient Roman structure located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD and completed by his successor Titus in 80 AD, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built. It was used for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and other forms of entertainment. The Colosseum's architectural innovation and its role in Roman society make it a significant historical monument.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal was completed in 1648. It is renowned for its symmetrical design, intricate carvings, and the use of precious stones in its decoration. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles, and is considered a symbol of love and devotion.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The New7Wonders of the World represent a diverse array of cultural and historical achievements from different civilizations across the globe. Each wonder reflects the unique artistic, architectural, and technological advancements of its time. The selection of these wonders highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting global understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Criticism and Controversy
The New7Wonders campaign faced criticism for its voting process and the commercial aspects of the initiative. Some critics argued that the selection was biased towards countries with larger populations and greater access to technology, which could influence the voting outcomes. Additionally, concerns were raised about the potential impact of increased tourism on the preservation of these sites. Despite these criticisms, the campaign succeeded in raising awareness and fostering a sense of global community.