The term "Seven Wonders of the World" traditionally refers to the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These are a list of remarkable constructions of classical antiquity. They were originally considered a guidebook for travelers in the Mediterranean in ancient times. Here they are:
1. Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt): The only wonder of the ancient world still in existence, the Great Pyramid was built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu. It stood as the tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years.
2. Hanging Gardens of Babylon (Iraq): Although its exact location and existence are still a matter of debate, these gardens are said to have been an extraordinary feat of engineering, with terraces of exotic flora and fauna.
3. Statue of Zeus at Olympia (Greece): A gigantic gold and ivory statue of the god Zeus, this statue was located in the Temple of Zeus at the sanctuary of Olympia.
4. Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Turkey): A grand temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis, it was rebuilt three times before its final destruction.
5. Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Turkey): An ornate tomb built for Mausolus, a Persian satrap, and his sister-wife Artemisia II.
6. Colossus of Rhodes (Greece): A towering statue of the sun god Helios, it stood at the entrance of the harbor of Rhodes and was roughly the same height as the Statue of Liberty in the United States, minus its pedestal.
7.1. Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt): Also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, it guided sailors safely into the busy harbor of Alexandria with its flame and reflective mirrors.
Of the original Seven Wonders, only the Great Pyramid of Giza remains relatively intact. The other six are known to us only through historical, archaeological, and literary sources. The concept of the ancient wonders has inspired innumerable lists and compilations of impressive constructions, both historical and modern.