At over 5,000 miles, the Great Wall is the longest man-made structure in the world. It was built between the 5th century B.C. and the 16th century to protect the borders of the Chinese Empire from the Mongols. It spans northern China from East to West and was designated a World Heritage site in 1987. Visitors can travel to Beijing to see parts of this magnificent structure.
Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this 130-foot statue on Corcovado Mountain in the National Park of Tijuca was designed by engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and is a widely recognized Brazilian image. Visitors can visit the statue by train in Corcovado. The tour is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
This ruin in Peru was part of the Incan Empire built in the mid 15th century and later abandoned. Known only to locals, it was rediscovered in 1911 by archaeologist Hiram Bingham. The ruins can be reached by foot, helicopter or train. The name Machu Picchu means Old Mountain, according to the Peru cultural foundation website. On many days rainbows can be seen from the location. Many temples and palaces still remain
Before they were ruins, this city was the political and economic hub of the Mayan civilization. As a trading center for cloth, slaves, salt and honey this city flourished between 800 and 1200 A.D. The astronomical observatory, El Caracol is the most known ruin. It is located in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.
This elliptical structure, located in the center of Rome, Italy, was built between 70 and 80 A.D and was in use for about 500 years. It could seat nearly 50,000 spectators and its design influences the construction of many modern day amphitheaters.
By many, the Taj Mahal is considered a perfect example of Muslim art in India. It was built between 1632 and 1648 in Agra, India as a commissioned mausoleum for the wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Its architecture incorporates Persian, Turkish, Islamic, and Indian styles. The surrounding grounds include formal gardens and a linear reflecting pool.
This wonder, located in Jordan, was declared a World Heritage site in 1985. Petra was the capital of the Nabataean empire of King Aretas IV. The members of this civilization created a pseudo oasis by manipulating water technology. It has several structures carved into stone, a 4,000 seat amphitheater and the El-Deir monastery.
