4 must-see Wonders of the World
Are you struggling to decide on your next travel destination? Make your trip the holiday of a lifetime by visiting one of these four must-see Wonders of the World. From the ancient Great Pyramid of Giza to the staggeringly beautiful Taj Mahal, these man-made marvels are sure to take your breath away.
What are the Wonders of the World?
The Wonders of the World are considered the most spectacular structures created by humans. Of the original seven wonders, marked out in the 2nd century BC, only the Great Pyramid of Giza remains. So, in 2001, a Swiss Foundation ran a global public poll to decide on the new Seven Wonders of the World – all of which can be seen today.
Top 4 Wonders of the World
Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
As the only original still standing, the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt is an extraordinary wonder.
It was built as a tomb for Pharoah Khufu in the 26th century BC across a period of around 27 years. Despite being over 4,500 years old, visitors today will find the pyramid largely intact. You can even explore inside to see where the pharaoh’s sarcophagus once lay.
The Giza Complex – and the rest of the country – boasts many other ancient treasures. If you are interested in history, you should look into tailored Egypt tours for an in-depth insight into Ancient Egyptian culture.
City of Petra, Jordan
Another staggering ancient structure is the City of Petra which can be found in modern-day Jordan.
2,500 years ago, this city was a thriving trade centre because it was at a crossroads between Arabia, Egypt, and Syria-Phoenicia. An inventive engineering system controlled the water supply to allow for extensive settlement, and today it is one of the most rewarding archaeological sites in the world.
What is most astonishing for visitors to Petra is the towering façade, an elaborate design of elegant pillars and intricate statues carved directly into an enormous red sandstone rock.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Another city that cannot help but inspire awe is Machu Picchu in Peru.
Not rediscovered until 1911, Machu Picchu was a major citadel in the 15th century, hidden in the hills above Cusco – the capital of the Inca Empire. What makes this citadel a wonder is its craftsmanship: to this day, historians are baffled by how the Incas fused together huge blocks of stone without the use of any mortar.
Sitting high within a dramatic valley backed by mountains with a river running far below, the surroundings here are just as stunning as the site itself. Travellers can do a three-night trekking expedition for an unforgettable aerial view of Machu Picchu on the fourth morning.
The Taj Mahal, India
Last but certainly not least in this list of the top four Wonders of the World is India’s Taj Mahal.
Built as a mausoleum to his late wife by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is significant because of its perfect symmetry, innovative design, and sheer beauty. Despite being over 350 years old, this burial site is as exquisite as when it was completed in 1653.
The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is at dawn or dusk so you can watch the famous white marble dome glowing pink and gold in the changing light of the sun.
