The selection of the New Seven Wonders of the World was a global initiative aimed at identifying and recognizing iconic structures that represent human achievement and cultural significance in the contemporary era. The project was initiated by the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss-based organization, in 2001, with the goal of updating the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World for the modern age.
Unlike the ancient wonders, which were chosen by various authors and travelers over centuries based on personal preferences, the New Seven Wonders were determined through a combination of global popularity and a democratic voting process. The initiative sought to engage people worldwide in the selection process, leveraging the power of the internet and telecommunications to allow individuals to cast their votes for their preferred landmarks.
To start the selection process, the New7Wonders Foundation invited nominations for potential wonders from around the world. A diverse panel of experts, including architects, historians, and other professionals, was involved in creating a shortlist of 21 finalists from the numerous nominations received. These finalists represented a broad spectrum of cultural, historical, and architectural significance, spanning different regions and civilizations.
Following the compilation of the shortlist, the New7Wonders Foundation launched a global campaign to encourage people to vote for their favorite landmarks. The voting process was not limited by geographical boundaries, enabling individuals from every corner of the globe to participate in selecting the New Seven Wonders. The initiative embraced the concept of cultural diversity and aimed to reflect the opinions and preferences of a wide and varied global audience.
The voting mechanism allowed participants to cast their votes online or via telephone, contributing to a transparent and inclusive process. The New7Wonders Foundation utilized cutting-edge technology to tally the votes, ensuring accuracy and authenticity in the final selection. The campaign generated immense public interest and involvement, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for preserving and celebrating the world’s cultural heritage.
After a comprehensive and extensive voting period, the New Seven Wonders of the World were officially unveiled on July 7, 2007, during a globally televised event. The results were based on the cumulative votes received by each of the 21 finalists, with the top seven vote-getters securing a place as the New Seven Wonders. The selected landmarks represented a mix of ancient and modern marvels, ranging from architectural wonders to archaeological treasures.
The final list included the Great Wall of China, Petra in Jordan, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Machu Picchu in Peru, Chichen Itza in Mexico, the Colosseum in Italy, and the Taj Mahal in India. Each of these structures garnered widespread recognition for their historical significance, architectural excellence, and cultural impact.
While the New Seven Wonders of the World initiative faced some criticism for its commercial aspects and the subjective nature of the selection process, it undeniably succeeded in engaging a global audience and sparking conversations about the importance of preserving and appreciating cultural heritage. The chosen wonders continue to be celebrated as symbols of human ingenuity and endurance, contributing to the collective narrative of our shared global history.
More Informations
Delving into the specifics of each of the New Seven Wonders of the World unveils a rich tapestry of history, culture, and architectural brilliance, showcasing the diversity and ingenuity of human civilizations across different epochs and geographical locations.
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Great Wall of China:
The Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Chinese engineering, stretches over 13,000 miles and is renowned for its historical significance. Built over several centuries, primarily during the Ming Dynasty, it served as a defensive fortification against invasions. The wall’s architectural grandeur and its strategic role in Chinese history contributed to its inclusion as one of the New Seven Wonders. -
Petra, Jordan:
Known as the “Rose City,” Petra is a historical and archaeological marvel in southern Jordan. Carved into vibrant rose-red cliffs, this ancient Nabataean city flourished as a major trading hub during the 6th century BC. The architectural brilliance of Petra is epitomized by structures such as Al-Khazneh, a mausoleum with intricate carvings, and the Monastery, an imposing rock-cut structure that reflects the city’s architectural sophistication. -
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil:
Perched atop the Corcovado mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Christ the Redeemer stands as an iconic symbol of Christian faith and a testament to artistic achievement. Completed in 1931, this colossal statue of Jesus Christ overlooks the city, with arms outstretched in a gesture of blessing. The monument combines religious symbolism with breathtaking panoramic views, making it a cultural and architectural landmark. -
Machu Picchu, Peru:
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel that captivates with its breathtaking mountainous backdrop. Believed to have been built in the 15th century and later abandoned during the Spanish Conquest, Machu Picchu showcases advanced Incan engineering, with precisely cut stone structures and agricultural terraces. Its mystique and historical significance contributed to its inclusion as one of the New Seven Wonders. -
Chichen Itza, Mexico:
Chichen Itza, a pre-Columbian archaeological site on the Yucatรกn Peninsula, was once a thriving city of the Maya civilization. The site features the iconic El Castillo pyramid, a marvel of ancient Mayan astronomical and architectural knowledge. During the spring and fall equinoxes, the play of sunlight creates a serpent-like shadow on the pyramid’s staircase, highlighting the cultural sophistication embedded in Chichen Itza’s design. -
Colosseum, Italy:
The Colosseum, an enduring symbol of ancient Roman engineering, is an amphitheater that once hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Completed in AD 80, this monumental structure could accommodate up to 80,000 spectators. The Colosseum’s architectural innovation, featuring a complex system of tunnels and chambers, reflects the Romans’ engineering prowess and cultural fascination with entertainment. -
Taj Mahal, India:
The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a sublime testament to Mughal architecture and undying love. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this ivory-white marble mausoleum in Agra is celebrated for its symmetrical beauty and intricate craftsmanship. The Taj Mahal’s cultural and romantic significance has earned it a place among the world’s most revered architectural wonders.
The inclusion of these landmarks as the New Seven Wonders of the World not only acknowledges their individual magnificence but also highlights the shared human heritage embedded in these diverse cultural and historical treasures. Each wonder tells a unique story, contributing to the collective narrative of human achievement, creativity, and the enduring legacy of civilizations that have shaped our world.