The Magnificent Seven: Exploring the World’s Heritage Sites by Name
The world is a beautiful place. Right from its natural beauty to architectural marvels, there is so much to explore. UNESCO’s World Heritage Site listing attempts to document the cultural and natural heritage sites that are significant and outstanding across the world. Today, we dive into the world’s most magnificent heritage sites and explore these seven wonders by name.
1. Machu Picchu (Peru)
Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic ancient cities of the Inca civilization, situated in the Andes mountains in Peru. Built-in the 15th century, research shows that it was abandoned due to the Spanish conquest after a century of its construction. This magnificent city remained hidden from the Spanish conquistadors until 1911, when an American historian discovered it.
2. Petra (Jordan)
From the Jordanian desert, emerges the city of Petra, considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world. Built-in 312 BC, this city still boasts of a magnificent architecture that rests on close to 800 individual monuments that congregate into various temples and tombs, culminating into the well-known Al-Deir Monastery.
3. Colosseum (Italy)
Also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, this iconic city of Rome in Italy is a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Romans. This vast, elliptical amphitheater could host more than 50,000 spectators, who would gather to witness various public displays and contests.
4. Taj Mahal (India)
The Taj Mahal is no ordinary monument. This mausoleum built-in 1632, in Agra India, is a symbol of endless love, and its majestic architecture, art, and engineering are a testament to the Mughal empire. The structure made of ivory-white marble hosts the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of Emperor Shah Jahan, who built it for his beloved.
5. Great Wall of China (China)
The sprawling great wall of China is a site that has gained cultural significance. Spanning over 13,000 miles, this fortification along China’s northern borders is a capital defense system that protected its Kingdom from potential threats. Its structures and architecture make it one of the most beautiful places in the world today.
6. Great Barrier Reef (Australia)
The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia is home to underwater ecology, in addition to being the largest coral reef. This natural beauty has been added to the UNESCO world heritage site list, as it provides a unique insight into the underwater world’s biodiversity.
7. Stonehenge (England)
Stonehenge is a site in England that boasts an intriguing structure, whose origin is still a mystery after the site was first investigated. The archeological layout of standing stones is laid such that the sunset aligns with the northwestern part of the site. Stonehenge is an excellent reminder of the incredible engineering feats of this community.
The Takeaway
The history of the world is filled with amazing sites, some that have disappeared, and some that remain as mystical and intriguing as ever before. Visiting these sites allows us to walk in the footsteps of our ancestors and learn a lot about engineering, archeology, and natural history. From architectural prowess to natural wonders, these magnificent seven heritage sites are undoubtedly worth a visit.
