Ancient masters. Seven Wonders of the World

The amazing Pyramids of Giza, the Hanging Gardens of Amitis, the Colossus of Rhodes and the Lighthouse of Alexandria - these names of the unique ancient structures are all familiar for each and everyone. Some people are in doubt that such monuments could exist in ancient times, while others just freeze in admiration at the mention of the great architectural works of mankind. The existence of seven amazing ancient monuments has been confirmed by the research that allows us to consider them the true wonders of the world. Only one construction, majestic pyramids of Giza, has managed to survive to these days. Other structures just left a lot of legends and incredible descriptions.

The Great Pyramid of Giza is listed among the most striking wonders of the world. The structure was successfully preserved during thousands of years. The Giza pyramid complex is considered a unique monument of architecture. The most famous part of the complex is the Khufu Pyramid. The base of the pyramid is a perfect square with a side of 227.5 meters long. Scientists estimate that the original height of the pyramid reached 146 meters, but for thousands of years the building partially collapsed and now has a height of 137 meters.

The most amazing mystery of the unique architectural complex is its purpose. There are so many versions that explain the aim of constructing pyramids. The tombs of the pharaohs, the most important accomplishments of the place of religious rites and beacons for UFOs are among them. It’s believed that the pyramids were built in the 28-23 centuries BC, which makes preservation of these architectural structures even more incredible. Another unsolved mystery of the pyramids of Giza is related to methods of construction. They were built of huge stone blocks weighing more than 2 tons.

How were people able to move such a huge stone blocks over long distances and raise to the great height without any special equipment?  That's one of the greatest mysteries of mankind. All of the pyramid have a regular geometric shape. Blocks used for construction were so tightly fitted to each other, that it's not always possible to insert even the thinnest blade therebetween. The Great Pyramid of Giza is a landmark of world importance, and only one of the wonders of the ancient world that managed to survive thousands of years. Next - Hanging Gardens of Amitis

Hanging Gardens of Amitis, Iraq

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, also known as the Hanging Gardens of Amytis, is an amazing architectural structure of the ancient world, which couldn't survive to the present day. According to legend, the luxurious architectural complex was built by order of King Nebuchadnezzar II, who gave to the installation the name of his wife. According to legend, the hanging gardens were located in Babylon. Today, their location coincides with the center of the Iraqi city of Hilla. Complete article

Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Greece

The Statue of Zeus at Olympia is considered to be the third wonder of the world. By the opening of next Olympic Games, a new temple dedicated to the father of the Greek gods was built. Construction of a grand temple lasted for 15 years and was completed in 456 BC. The temple of Zeus was built under the project of the genius architect, Le Bon. He hit a grand in its scope and decoration. The main decoration of the temple was the statue of Zeus created by the famous sculptor of those times, Phidias. Complete article

Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, Turkey

One of the seven wonders of the world has been located in the Greek city of Ephesus thousands of years ago. It was the great temple of Artemis. However, only a few columns and part of the foundation have survived to these days. The prominent landmark can be seen in the small Turkish town of Selcuk, which is located in the southern part of the province of Izmir. The history of the grand building is incredibly complicated and full of tragic events. The first temple in Ephesus was built in the 6th century BC. Complete article

Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Turkey

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus is the fifth wonder of the world. Its history is closely linked with the history of the temple of Artemis at Ephesus. It was built simultaneously with the second temple of Artemis, which was being rapidly restored after the fire. The building was constructed in an era when Caria was ruled by King Mausolus, so it was named after current ruler. King Mausolus was known for his tough-minded and inflexible nature. During his reign, the city of Halicarnassus was declared the capital of Caria. Complete article

The Colossus of Rhodes, Greece

The city of Rhodes was the largest economic and trade center in ancient times. For hundreds of years, this coastal place has remained a cause of incessant wars that involved all the rulers of neighboring states. The god Helios was considered the patron of the city. So, in 304 BC, after a successful rebuff of invaders, locals decided to erect a unique sculpture in honor of their patron. Complete article

Alexandria Lighthouse, Egypt

In 332 BC, Alexander the Great has founded the city, which was called Alexandria. The Lighthouse of Alexandria was the main symbol of the city, which in a few years gained the status of a major port and commercial center. It's the seventh wonder of the world. The structure was built in the 4th century BC. The unique system of signal lights complementing the lighthouse appeared much later, in the 1st century BC. It's believed that outstanding architect Sostratus was an author of the lighthouse project. Construction works took 20 years. Complete article