What are the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World?
The 7 Wonders of the Ancient World have fascinated travellers and historians alike for centuries. These legendary constructions were first documented in Hellenic texts as early as the 2nd century BC. Over time, the original list evolved, but the most widely accepted version dates back to the Renaissance period.
Today, only one of these wonders still stands. While the New 7 Wonders have since taken their place, the awe and mystery surrounding the ancient wonders continue to captivate the imagination of people around the globe.
Where were the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World located?
The Seven Wonders were spread across the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, spanning three continents: Africa, Europe, and Asia. Of the original seven, only the Great Pyramid of Giza remains intact.
Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
The Great Pyramid is the only ancient wonder still standing today. One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, it dominates the Giza Plateau. Not much has changed since ancient Greek historians declared it a wonder of the world.
Dating back to the 26th century BC, the Great Pyramid is also the oldest of the wonders. Built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu, this marvel of engineering continues to amaze visitors with its scale and precision.
Location: Giza Plateau, near Cairo, Egypt. The pyramid is largely intact and open to visitors, though tickets to explore the interior are limited.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Iraq
Perhaps the most mysterious of the Seven Wonders, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are believed to have been located in present-day Iraq. There is still debate among scholars as to whether they truly existed, as no physical evidence has ever been found.
Thought to have been a lush, multi-tiered garden, the Hanging Gardens were said to be built by King Nebuchadnezzar II around 600 BC, possibly to please his queen who missed her mountainous homeland.
Location: Near Hillah, Iraq, roughly 85 km south of Baghdad. Despite excavations, no definitive remains have been uncovered.
Temple of Artemis, Ephesus, Turkey
This ancient Greek temple, dedicated to the goddess Artemis, once stood in the historic city of Ephesus. After being destroyed by flood and fire, the temple was rebuilt twice before its final form was recognised as one of the Seven Wonders.
A major site of worship and pilgrimage in its day, the temple was destroyed for good in 401 AD. Only a single column remains at the site today, but you can see a scale model of the temple at Miniatürk Park in Istanbul.
Location: Near the modern town of Selçuk, Turkey. Artefacts from the temple are housed in the Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Turkey
Built around 350 BC, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was the grand tomb of Mausolus, a ruler of Caria in Asia Minor. Its size and decorative features earned it a place among the Seven Wonders. Earthquakes eventually destroyed the structure between the 12th and 15th centuries.
It was so renowned that the word “mausoleum” comes from this very monument. Standing over 40 metres tall, it dominated the ancient skyline. Sculptures from the mausoleum can still be seen today in London’s British Museum.
Location: In Halicarnassus, now known as Bodrum, Turkey. Though only the foundations remain, sculptures from the site are displayed in the British Museum.
Statue of Zeus, Olympia, Greece
Crafted by the sculptor Phidias in the 5th century BC, the Statue of Zeus stood over 12 metres tall inside the Temple of Zeus. It depicted the king of the gods seated on an elaborate throne, adorned with ivory, ebony, gold and precious stones.
The statue was lost to history, but the workshop of Phidias was uncovered in the 1950s, allowing historians to piece together its creation. Today, visitors can still see the foundations of the temple and the site of the workshop in Olympia.
Location: In Olympia, in Greece’s Peloponnese region. Greece. The statue no longer exists, but the temple site is a major archaeological attraction.
Lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, once guided sailors safely into the bustling port. Built in the 3rd century BC, it stood over 100 metres tall, making it one of the tallest man-made structures for centuries.
A mirror reflected sunlight during the day, and a fire illuminated the way at night. Earthquakes damaged the structure over time, and in 1994, its underwater remains were discovered in Alexandria’s eastern harbour.
Location: On Pharos Island, Alexandria, Egypt. The Fort of Qaitbay now stands on the site, built with stones from the original lighthouse. Underwater ruins are still being explored today.
Colossus of Rhodes, Greece
The Colossus of Rhodes was a 33-metre-tall statue of the Greek sun god Helios, built in 280 BC to commemorate Rhodes’ victory over a military siege. Though impressive, it stood for just 54 years before being toppled by an earthquake.
It was never rebuilt—legend says the Oracle of Delphi warned against it—and for centuries, the broken statue remained on the ground, admired by travellers from across the ancient world.
Location: Near the harbour of Rhodes. Though no remains survive, the old town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still draws thousands of visitors each year.
Why are the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World important?
These wonders represent the incredible ingenuity, ambition, and artistry of ancient civilisations. They provide insight into historical values, cultural achievements and technological innovation long before modern tools were invented.
While only one still stands, the legacy of the Seven Wonders continues to inspire modern architects, engineers and explorers across the globe.
Step back in time with Exoticca
Now that you’ve explored the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which one captures your imagination the most?
At Exoticca, we specialise in cultural travel experiences to the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. Our team takes care of all the details—from flights and hotels to knowledgeable guides who bring ancient history to life.
