In 2007, the New7Wonders Foundation organized a global vote to select the “New 7 Wonders of the World” as part of a campaign. This effort was meant to celebrate humanity’s architectural and cultural achievements, expanding on the original Seven Wonders, many of which no longer exist. Today’s list features landmarks that are not only marvels of engineering and architecture but also rich in cultural and historical significance. Let us explore the 7 wonders of the world and how you can visit them.
The Great Wall of China – China
Why It’s a Wonder- The Great Wall of China is one of the most remarkable feats of human engineering. Built over centuries to protect China from invaders, it stretches over 13,000 miles and represents the resilience, strength, and ambition of ancient Chinese dynasties.
What to Expect- Travelers can explore various sections of the wall, each offering unique views and histories. The Badaling section near Beijing is especially popular for its accessibility and breathtaking scenery.
Best Time to Visit- Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best weather.
Travel Tip
Use MakeMyTrip to book flights to Beijing and find travel packages for guided tours to the Great Wall. The platform also has options for booking hotels close to the wall for easy access.
Petra – Jordan
Why It’s a Wonder- Known as the “Rose City” for its pinkish-red stone cliffs, Petra is a marvel of ancient architecture and rock-cut structures. Originally built by the Nabataeans, it served as a strategic trade hub, showcasing their skills in engineering and design.
What to Expect- Visitors often hike through the narrow canyon, or “Siq,” to reach the famous Treasury. There are many beautiful rock-cut tombs, temples, and staircases to explore, creating an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit- Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
Travel Tip
Cleartrip offers comprehensive travel options to Petra, including flights to Amman and accommodations close to the site. Cleartrip also features transportation options to Petra from Amman.
Christ the Redeemer – Brazil
Why It’s a Wonder- Christ the Redeemer is an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro and one of the largest Art Deco statues in the world. Standing atop Corcovado Mountain, the statue welcomes visitors with open arms, symbolizing peace and compassion.
What to Expect- A train ride up Corcovado Mountain leads visitors to the statue, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Rio. It’s a popular site for stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Best Time to Visit- December to March is peak season, but October to November offers fewer crowds.
Travel Tip
Use Hotels.com to find accommodation in Rio de Janeiro, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Hotels.com also has great deals for nearby hostels if you are traveling on a budget.
Machu Picchu – Peru
Why It’s a Wonder- Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel that remains a mystery to archaeologists. Its stone construction, perfectly fitted without mortar, blends seamlessly into the lush Andes Mountains, creating a unique and awe-inspiring sight.
What to Expect- Hike along the Inca Trail or take a scenic train to reach Machu Picchu. Once there, you’ll explore the terraces, temples, and plazas that make up this magical site.
Best Time to Visit- April to October is the dry season and ideal for exploring.
Travel Tip
EasemyTrip offers package deals for flights to Cusco, from where you can travel to Machu Picchu. They also have options for guided tours to ensure you don’t miss any key sites along the way.
Chichen Itza – Mexico
Why It’s a Wonder- Chichen Itza is a breathtaking archaeological site showcasing Maya civilization’s architectural and astronomical achievements. The site’s central pyramid, the Temple of Kukulcán, aligns with the sun during equinoxes, casting a shadow that resembles a serpent descending its steps.
What to Expect- Apart from the main pyramid, you can explore a ball court, temples, and observatories, all showcasing the Maya’s advanced knowledge of astronomy and engineering.
Best Time to Visit- November to April for pleasant weather.
Travel Tip
Expedia offers customizable travel packages to Chichen Itza, including flights, accommodations in nearby Cancun or Merida, and guided tours to make the most of your visit.
The Colosseum – Italy
Why It’s a Wonder- This iconic structure in Rome is an ancient amphitheater that held gladiatorial contests and other public events, showcasing the grandeur and culture of the Roman Empire. The Colosseum remains a symbol of ancient Rome and has inspired modern-day stadiums.
What to Expect- Guided tours take visitors through the massive arena, where they can walk on the same ground that once held gladiators and observe the sophisticated architectural design.
Best Time to Visit- April to June and September to October, when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are manageable.
Travel Tip
Skyscanner offers options for flights to Rome and can help you find the best deals for nearby accommodations. Skyscanner’s trip planning features also include historical tours of the Colosseum and surrounding landmarks.
Taj Mahal – India
Why It’s a Wonder- Built by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his late wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. This white marble mahal combines Islamic, Persian, and Indian design elements, symbolizing eternal love.
What to Expect- A Walk through the lush gardens leads to the iconic Taj Mahal, where visitors can admire its intricate marble work, floral inlays, and symmetrical design. The nearby Agra Fort is also worth visiting.
Best Time to Visit- October to March, to avoid the summer heat.
Travel Tip
Booking.com offers a variety of accommodations in Agra, from luxury hotels overlooking the Taj to budget stays. You can also find deals for day tours and transport options to explore Agra’s other landmarks.
Why Were the Seven Wonders Changed?
The original 7 Wonders of the World, created by ancient Greek historians, primarily featured wonders in the Mediterranean region. As time passed, only one of those wonders, the Great Pyramid of Giza, remained intact. In 2000, the New7Wonders Foundation launched a global initiative to identify a new list of wonders that reflects a broader range of cultures and celebrates remarkable architecture from across the world.
Conclusion
The New 7 Wonders of the World serve as a reminder of humanity’s creativity, ambition, and cultural richness. Each of these sites offers unique experiences, from ancient citadels to modern-day landmarks. With a bit of planning, you can visit these wonders and enjoy firsthand the beauty they bring to our world. Explore the travel options listed above to make your journey as smooth as possible.