The 7 Ancient Wonders of the World

The Great Pyramid of Giza

* Built to be used as a tomb for the Pharaoh Cheops . * The method used during its construction is unclear, but it is believed that a system of ramps, pulleys, and levers were the factors in building the pyramid. * It was built by Egyptian slaves around 2570 B.C. * It was built in Giza Necropolis, in Egypt. * The historical significance of the pyramid is that it shows the brilliance of ancient Egyptian architects and workers when they had little technology. * The pyramid still stands, and to preserve it, the pyramid was closed due to an increase in humidity levels after visitors became allowed in. * Inside the pyramid, there are “airshafts” that don’t reach the outside of the pyramid, puzzling historians who try to figure out their purpose.

The Hanging Gardens of Babylon

* It is said that the gardens were built by King Nebuchadnezzar II, to please his wife, who longed for plants in her kingdom. * The Gardens were built on terraces that were one on top of the other, so that the plants hung down to the next terrace, Hence the name “Hanging Gardens”. * The Gardens are said to have been built around 600 B.C. * They are said to have been located in present day Al Hillah, Babil Province, in Iraq. * The Gardens were simply built to demonstrate beauty and to please the Queen. * It is written that the Gardens were destroyed by various earthquakes. * The Gardens were made of mud bricks waterproofed with lead. The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus

* This temple was built by Lydians and Greeks to worship the Greek goddess Artemis. * It was built around 550 B.C. * This temple demonstrates the devotion of the ancient Greeks towards the Greek gods, and helps us learn about their culture. * The Temple of Artemis was rebuilt three times before finally being destroyed completely in 401 B.C. * The site of the temple was found in 1869, but all that remained were fragments and broken pieces.

The Colossus of Rhodes

* The Colossus was built to celebrate the victory of Rhodes over the leader of Cyprus. * The statue was built with iron tie bars, and was filled with stone blocks. * The Colossus was built between 292 and 280 B.C. and it teaches us a little about the customs of the people of Rhodes. * The Colossus was destroyed by an earthquake in 226 B.C. * Before its destruction, it stood over 30m high, making it one of the tallest statues of the ancient world.

The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus

* It was a tomb built for