7 Ancient Wonders You Can Still Visit Today

Embark on a remarkable journey to witness the grandeur of the ancient world, where history comes alive amidst the remnants of civilizations long past. These seven ancient wonders, testaments to human ingenuity and cultural richness, stand as captivating destinations for modern-day explorers.

Giza's Great Pyramid: An Egyptian Eternity

The Great Pyramid of Giza, the sole survivor of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, rises majestically from the sands of the Giza Necropolis near Cairo, Egypt. Constructed during the Fourth Dynasty for Pharaoh Khufu (around 2580-2560 BCE), this colossal structure served as his tomb and a symbol of his divine power. Its precise construction and alignment with celestial bodies reflect the ancient Egyptians' advanced understanding of astronomy and engineering.

Visiting the Giza Necropolis is an awe-inspiring experience. The complex includes the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, the Great Sphinx, and various smaller pyramids and temples. Each monument tells a story of ancient Egyptian life, beliefs, and funerary practices.

To reach the Giza Necropolis from Cairo, you have several transportation options. Uber and taxis are readily available, providing a convenient and direct route. Alternatively, numerous guided tours offer transportation and in-depth historical insights.

Upon arrival, you'll need to purchase tickets to enter the Giza Necropolis. Separate tickets are required for entering the Great Pyramid itself. The Giza Necropolis is generally open from 7 AM to 6 PM from April to September and 8 AM to 4 PM from October to March. Keep in mind that these hours can vary, especially during religious holidays or special events.

Exploring the interior of the Great Pyramid is a highlight for many visitors. While the passages can be narrow and the climb strenuous, the Grand Gallery and King's Chamber offer a glimpse into the pyramid's intricate design and the pharaoh's final resting place. Be prepared for limited space and warm temperatures inside the pyramid.

The 9 Pyramids Lounge and the new visitor center provide modern amenities, enhancing the overall experience. These facilities offer a comfortable space to relax, enjoy refreshments, and learn more about the history of the site.

To make the most of your visit, it's best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the intense desert heat. The summer months can be particularly challenging due to the high temperatures, so plan accordingly.

Responsible tourism is crucial to preserving this ancient wonder. Stick to official guides to avoid scams and ensure accurate information. Respect the site's heritage by not climbing on the monuments and disposing of waste properly.

Local Tip: Consider visiting the Giza Necropolis during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for more pleasant weather and fewer crowds. A guided tour can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the vast complex efficiently.

Colosseum: Rome's Arena of Gladiators

The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome, stands as a testament to the grandeur and brutality of the Roman Empire. Constructed in the 1st century AD, this amphitheater hosted gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and dramatic performances for over 500 years. Its impressive architecture, featuring Tuscan, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, showcases the Romans' engineering prowess.

Planning a visit to the Colosseum requires careful consideration of ticket options and logistics. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to skip the long queues. Combination tickets are available, granting access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are located nearby.

The Colosseum is easily accessible by public transportation. The Metro B line stops at the Colosseo station, and several bus and tram lines also serve the area.

Opening hours vary depending on the season, but generally, the Colosseum is open from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM during the summer months and closes earlier in the winter. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Walking on the arena floor, you can almost hear the roar of the crowd and the clash of gladiators. Imagine the spectacle of ancient Roman entertainment as you explore the different levels of the amphitheater. Night tours offer a unique perspective, with the Colosseum illuminated against the night sky.

When visiting the Colosseum, it's essential to bring your ID for verification purposes. Avoid bringing large bags, as they may not be allowed inside. Pre-booking tickets is crucial to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.

A guided tour can enhance your experience, providing access to restricted areas like the underground hypogeum, where gladiators and animals were held before their performances. These tours offer in-depth historical insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives.

Local Tip: Take advantage of the combination tickets to explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are located adjacent to the Colosseum. These ancient sites offer a comprehensive view of Roman civilization.

Petra: Jordan's Rose-Tinted City

Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking ancient city carved into sandstone cliffs in Jordan. This architectural marvel, once the capital of the Nabataean kingdom, showcases a unique blend of Nabataean, Roman, and Byzantine influences.

The journey to Petra begins in Wadi Musa, the town adjacent to the ancient city. From there, you'll enter through the Siq, a narrow gorge that winds its way to the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh).

The best times to visit Petra are during sunrise or late afternoon, when the sandstone cliffs glow with vibrant colors. Engaging a knowledgeable guide can greatly enhance your understanding of the site's history and significance.

Respecting local customs is essential when visiting Petra, especially during religious observances. Dress modestly and be mindful of local traditions.

Staying overnight in Wadi Musa allows you to explore Petra at a more leisurely pace and experience the magic of Petra by Night, when the Siq and Treasury are illuminated by candles.

Local Tip: Consider purchasing the Jordan Pass, which includes a visa to the country and entry to Petra, as well as other sites around Jordan. This can save you money and streamline your entry process.

Great Wall of China: A Dragon's Spine Across the Land

The Great Wall of China, a symbol of Chinese civilization, stretches for thousands of miles across the country. Constructed over centuries, this defensive structure served to protect against invasions and raids. The Mutianyu section, known for its well-preserved structure and fewer crowds, offers a rewarding experience.

To reach the Mutianyu section from Beijing, you can hire a private car or join an organized tour. Public transportation is available but requires several transfers and takes longer.

Avoiding peak tourist seasons is recommended to minimize crowds. Hiring a private guide can provide valuable insights into the wall's history and architecture.

The Mutianyu section features dual-facing walls and 23 watchtowers. These architectural elements showcase the ingenuity of the wall's design.

Responsible tourism is vital to preserving the Great Wall. Stay on designated paths, avoid damaging the structure, and dispose of waste properly.

Local Tip: Take the cable car up to the wall to save time and energy, and then enjoy a leisurely walk along the well-preserved sections. For a thrilling descent, try the toboggan run.

Olympia: Echoes of Zeus and Ancient Games

Olympia, located in the western Peloponnese region of Greece, was the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. This sacred site, dedicated to Zeus, hosted the games every four years from 776 BC to 393 AD.

To visit Olympia, you can take a bus or drive from Athens or Thessaloniki. The journey from Athens is approximately 400 kilometers.

Exploring the Olympia archaeological site, you'll discover the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, and the original Olympic Stadium. The Archaeological Museum of Olympia houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including the statue of Hermes of Praxiteles.

Responsible tourism is essential to preserving this historical site. Respect the ruins, avoid littering, and support local businesses.

Local Tip: Visit the ruins of Phidias' workshop, where the Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was created. This offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic process of the time.

Babylon: Traces of Mesopotamia's Majesty

Babylon, located in modern-day Iraq, was once a magnificent city in ancient Mesopotamia. While the Hanging Gardens of Babylon are shrouded in mystery, the city's historical context and archaeological remains offer a glimpse into its past.

Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins of Babylon requires careful consideration of travel advisories. The site is located south of Baghdad, and access may be restricted due to security concerns.

Given the travel advisories, alternative interpretations of the Hanging Gardens can be found in modern architectural marvels such as Singapore's Parkroyal Hotel on Pickering or Shanghai's 1,000 Trees retail complex. These contemporary designs evoke the spirit of the ancient wonder.

Responsible travel involves respecting local cultures and traditions. If you choose to visit Babylon, be sure to engage with local guides and follow their advice.

Local Tip: Before planning a trip to Babylon, consult the latest travel advisories and consider joining a guided tour with experienced local operators. This can provide a safer and more informative experience.

Alexandria: Whispers of the Pharos

Alexandria, a vibrant city on the Egyptian coast, was once home to the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though the lighthouse no longer stands, its legacy continues to inspire.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria was constructed during the Ptolemaic Kingdom and stood for centuries as one of the tallest man-made structures in the world. It was severely damaged by earthquakes between 956 and 1303 AD and eventually disappeared in 1480 when its stones were used to build the Citadel of Qaitbay.

Today, remnants of the lighthouse can be found in Alexandria's East and West harbors. Divers can explore the submerged ruins, discovering colossal stone blocks, columns, and statues.

Recent archaeological discoveries have brought to the surface 22 stone blocks from the submerged ruins of the lighthouse. These architectural elements, including lintels, uprights, and foundation slabs, are undergoing photogrammetric processing for digital reconstruction.

Responsible travel in Alexandria involves supporting local economies and respecting the city's rich cultural heritage. Exploring the city's museums and historical sites offers a glimpse into its past.

Local Tip: Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site of the ancient lighthouse, to learn more about the Pharos and its impact on Alexandria's history. The citadel offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

These seven ancient wonders offer a captivating journey through time, inviting you to explore the enduring legacy of human civilization. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the rose-tinted city of Petra, each site stands as a testament to the ingenuity, artistry, and cultural richness of the ancient world. As you embark on your own adventure, remember to travel responsibly, respecting the heritage of these remarkable destinations for generations to come.