In 2007 the New7Wonders Foundation named seven new world wonders. A public voting process took place over the internet to select the sites. More than 100 million people participated in the voting, and the Great Pyramid was named an honorary wonder. Today, the seven wonders of the world attract millions of tourists every year. But how did they decide on the list? The foundation surveyed tens of millions of people to determine the top seven.
The Grand Canyon is a spectacular natural wonder. This 277-mile long canyon was formed by the Colorado River, and it is up to 18 miles wide at its widest point. The Northern Lights, which are visible only in the Northern Hemisphere, are also among the world’s seven natural wonders. Located in the polar regions, the Northern Lights have been awe-inspiring travelers for centuries. Landscape photographers are fascinated by the dazzling natural light show.
The Taj Mahal: The 108-foot-high, marble-and-steel construction of this iconic monument in northern India was completed between 1632 and 1643. The original design for the monument was to celebrate the defense of Rhodes against the Macedonian king. It was created by the Greek sculptor Chares of Lindos, who was inspired by the goddess of the sun, Helios.
Paricutin: One of the youngest volcanoes in the world, the Paricutin is located in central Mexico in the Ring of Fire. It last erupted in 1952 and grew nearly 1,300 feet in a year. It is currently accessible by hiking or riding a horse. The hike involves a twelve-mile round trip. Hikers and horses will trek through lava fields and enjoy breathtaking views.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: According to Herodotus, seven incredible constructions in the ancient world had the capacity to amaze visitors. The Great Pyramid of Giza, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Statue of Zeus, the Temple of Artemis at Ephes, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria were all deemed World Wonders.
In addition to the seven natural wonders of the world, Mount Everest is the highest point on earth. It is 60 million years old, and is on the border between China and Nepal. The height of Everest was measured at 8850 meters in 1999, but the general region had been inhabited long before. The Nabateans chose the site due to its proximity to major trade routes. The Greek Empire invaded the city in 312 BC, but the Nabateans managed to repel it. Eventually, the Roman Empire took control of the city and occupied it in 106 AD.