Many of us are familiar with the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. We may have read about the Hanging Gardens of Babylon or the Lighthouse of Alexandria in history textbooks in school. However, most of these ancient wonders have long since been destroyed, either by natural or manmade causes.
From 2001-2007, a foundation in Switzerland decided to reimagine the concept of the 7 Wonders of the World, with seven extant monuments that can still be visited. After conducting the largest poll in the world at that time, the final list, dubbed the New 7 Wonders of the World, was revealed.
The result is a list of attractions across the world that should be on the bucket list of every traveler. Many you may have heard of, but some may be new to you. Whether you’d like to visit just one, or make it a goal to someday get to all seven, join us as we explore the New 7 Wonders of the World.
1. Great Wall of China, China
Stretching over 13,000 miles and visible from space, it would be difficult to see all of the Great Wall of China. Luckily, there are numerous tourist centers near Beijing where the wall has been restored and is easily accessible. For the truly adventurous, there’s even an annual Great Wall of China Marathon, where competitors run along the wall.
2. Petra, Jordan
This ancient city in southwestern Jordan is literally carved into the rose-colored rock of the surrounding mountains. Inhabited by humans since 7000 BC, this city was once the capital of the Nabatean kingdom. Today, it is considered one of the most valuable cultural and archaeological sites on earth, and is Jordan’s most popular tourist attraction, drawing over a million visitors each year.
3. The Colosseum, Rome
There’s no doubt that the Colosseum is to Rome what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. It’s the most popular tourist attraction in the city, and still the largest amphitheater ever built. Once home to the infamous Roman games, and later used as a cemetery and a castle, the Colosseum has a history that stretches back nearly 2,000 years. Any visitor to Rome or Italy as a whole owes it to themselves to see this iconic structure.
4. Chichen Itza, Mexico
Located just three hours from Cancun, Chichen Itza is a fascinating ancient Mayan city full of temples, observatories, cenotes, and even a sports court where inhabitants once played a game called Pok-a-Tok, which was potentially one of the games that inspired soccer. Chichen Itza has some of the most well-preserved examples of human sacrifice practices, ancient astronomy, and Mayan architecture. It is a once-in-a-lifetime destination that you can spend an entire day exploring.
5. Machu Picchu, Peru
Hikers, trekkers, and history buffs from around the globe come to Peru to visit this famous Inca citadel located high in the Andes Mountains. Built in the 15th century, Machu Picchu is known for iconic sights like the Temple of the Condor, the Hall of Mirrors, Ladder of the Fountains, and the Temple of Three Windows. And although the site was temporarily closed in early 2023, it has since reopened, and is welcoming tourists as normal.
6. Taj Mahal, India
This instantly recognizable ivory mausoleum in Agra took over 20,000 artisans more than two decades to complete from 1631 to 1653. Today, it is one of India’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 8 million visitors per year. And it’s not just everyday people who visit the Taj Mahal. The complex has played host to numerous US presidents and members of royal families.
7. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Since its construction was completed in 1931 in the mountains overlooking Rio de Janeiro, the Christ the Redeemer statue has become the most recognizable symbol of Brazil. Each year, this 125-foot statue of Jesus Christ draws millions of tourists and religious pilgrims to the site. It remains an enduring symbol of Christianity around the world, and one of its most celebrated monuments.
8. Honorary Mention - Giza Pyramids, Egypt
The Giza Pyramid Complex holds the distinction of being the only wonder on this list that was also one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, and is thus honorarily included. Constructed between 2600 and 2500 BC, the complex includes hugely popular tourist attractions such as the Great Pyramid, the Great Sphinx, and Pyramid of Khafre. As one of the most recognizable sites in the world, it should be at the top of the list for any history buff.
Insurance to Explore with Confidence
Whether you’re planning to visit one of the New 7 Wonders of the World or more, it’s essential to have insurance coverage for the unexpected.
Travel medical insurance is important for anyone heading to destinations outside of the United States. Being as the domestic health insurance plan from your home country is unlikely to be accepted in another country, you need to have a contingency plan in place if you get sick or injured. A travel medical insurance plan allows you to get the best available care without being solely responsible for paying the hospital/doctor bill yourself. This is incredibly important, as ancient tourist attractions can be treacherous, and the possibility of a sprain or broken bone can increase.
US residents traveling abroad should look into travel insurance. It only takes one cancelled flight or lost bag to completely ruin your vacation. With a travel insurance plan, you can be reimbursed for covered costs you incur due to a travel mishap. In addition, most plans can also offer emergency medical coverage.
Regardless of where you’re going or what you plan to do while you’re there, proper insurance for traveling is important. When visiting one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, the right insurance plan will allow you to explore and enjoy yourself with total peace of mind.