40 Greatest Man-Made Wonders of the World

Imagine yourself standing before the Sphinx, its enigmatic gaze locked on the horizon. Can you feel the whispers of ancient Egypt, the secrets buried beneath the sands? Will you unravel the mysteries of the Colosseum, where gladiators fought and emperors ruled? Or perhaps the allure of Machu Picchu, a lost city shrouded in clouds, beckons you to discover its forgotten stories.

So, hold on tight as we embark on this exciting adventure. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale and beauty of these structures, to unravel the mysteries of their past, and to celebrate the enduring legacy of human achievement. Buckle up, because this journey is about to take you on a wild ride through history, across continents, and straight into the heart of human wonder!

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Number 40:

Tower of Pisa.

The world-famous leaning tower is known around the globe for its incredible four-degree tilt that makes it seem as if the tower is about to topple over. The amazing slanted belltower sits behind Pisa Cathedral and was built in the Romanesque style. Dating back to the 12th century, the tower took a whopping 199 years to complete, but began to slant during its construction due to soft ground on one side. Today, the tower — which stands at a wonky 55.86 meters tall — attracts tourists from far and wide.

Number 39:

Himeji Castle.

Himeji Castle is considered the best existing example of Japanese castle architecture. It was fortified to defend against enemies during the feudal period, but it has been rebuilt many times throughout the centuries and reflects the different design periods. It survived the bombings of World War II and is frequently seen in domestic and foreign films, including the James Bond movie “You Only Live Twice”. The white exterior and design give the castle the appearance of a bird taking flight, earning the castle the nickname ‘white egret castle’.

Number 38:

Sydney Opera House.

Regarded as a 20th century architectural masterpiece, the Sydney Opera House was designed and built by architect, Jørn Utzon, to reflect the image of a huge sailing ship.It houses multiple venues that together host more than 1,500 performances each year. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens, the famous Opera House in Sydney is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks.

Number 37:

Leshan Great Buddha.

The Giant Buddha of Leshan is a gigantic Buddha statue carved out of a cliff face in western China. Begun in the year 713 during the Tang Dynasty, the statue was not completed until the year 803, and was the effort of thousands of sculptors and workers. As the biggest carved stone Buddha in the world, the Leshan Giant Buddha is featured in poetry, song and story. The sculpture stands about 233 feet high and has 11 feet long fingers on each of its enormous resting hands.

Number 36:

Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the strait between San Francisco and Marin County to the north. The bridge took four years to build, and was completed in 1937. The Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world when it was completed, and has become an internationally recognized symbol of California. The famous red-orange color of the bridge was specifically chosen to make the brigmore easily visible through the thick fog that frequently shrouds the bridge.

Number 35:

st. basil’s cathedral

Arguably the most iconic sight in Russia, this twisting Cathedral with its multi-colored onion domes is set in Moscow’s equally iconic Red Square. St Basil’s Cathedral was built by Ivan the Terrible in 1555. The structure is a madly bright lollypop of strange styles that seem more like a funfair and look unlike anything else in Russia. Because of its unique architectural style and its historic links to a victorious battle in Tatarstan, the cathedral is a symbol of Russia.

Number 34:

Alhambra.

Built on the ruins of Roman fortifications in 889, Alhambra is a combination palace and fortress situated in Granada, Spain. For almost 1,000 years, much of the Iberian peninsula was ruled by the Islamic Moors, with Andalusia being their longest-held territory. Today, you can explore its citadel, the oldest part of the fortress, climb up its watchtower, explore the amazing Moorish gardens and courtyards, and be amazed at the delicate geometric patterns throughout the complex. The setting on the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada makes Alhambra that much more mystical.

Number 33:

Moai Statues.

With the tallest weighing in over 80 tonnes, the Moai Statues on Easter Island in Polynesia are iconic. In fact, you’ll probably recognize them from a picture even if you hadn’t heard of them. These 800-plus statues, most of which face away from the sea, were carved from volcanic ash by the Rapa Nui people somewhere between 400 and 1500 AD. Likely created using rudimentary basalt stone picks, each of these enormous monolithic statues would have taken close to a year to complete. There are many theories as to why they were built, including as a way to honor important clan ancestors and because of a believe it would improve the soil.

Number 32:

Eiffel Tower

Named after Gustave Eiffel, the unmistakable symbol of Paris is a sight that must be witnessed when visiting the French capital. Constructed between 1887 and 1889, the tower was originally built to be the impressive entrance to the World’s Fair. The tower stands at 324 meters tall and was amazingly the world’s tallest man-made structure until the Empire State Building took the title in 1930. Take the lift all the way to the observation deck of the tower and marvel at the views of the Parisian boulevard and pattern of parks below.

Number 31:

Abu Simbel.

Counted amongst the most majestic monuments in Egypt, Abu Simbel consist of two massive rock temples on the western bank of Lake Nasser. The twin temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses The Great in the 13th century BC, as a lasting monument to himself and his queen Nefertari. The complex was relocated in its entirety in the 1960s to avoid their being submerged during the creation of Lake Nasser, the massive artificial water reservoir formed after the building of the Aswan Dam on the Nile River.

Number 30:

Ifugao Rice Terraces

Photographers will want to have lots of memory cards with them when they visit the picturesque Ifugao Rice Terraces on the island of Luzon. For 2,000 years, people have been growing rice on terraces that follow the contours of the Cordilleras Mountains. The most famous ones can be found around the town of Banaue. They were created by the Ifugao ethnic people without modern tools and are still used today.

Number 29:

Neuschwanstein Castle.

One of the architectural projects of “Mad” King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is the quintessential fairytale castle. In fact, it was the castle’s soaring spires and romanesque revival style that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Construction of the castle began in 1869, but sadly, Ludwig never got to live in his castle; he died in 1886, the same year of the castle’s completion.

Set in South Bavaria among forested mountains and mirror-like lakes, the picturesque setting of the castle is as impressive as the building itself.

Number 28:

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, with two observation decks and a restaurant-bar on the 122nd floor. The world’s tallest building pierces the sky at 2715 feet and opened in January 2010, six years after excavations began. Up to 13,000 workers toiled day and night, putting up a new floor in as little as three days. Taking in the views from the world’s tallest building is a deservedly crave-worthy experience and a trip to the “At the Top” observation deck on the 124th floor is the most popular way to do it.

Number 27:

St Peter’s Basilica.

The center of the Catholic world, the Basilica of St. Peter is a huge church. With an interior height of 400 feet the space shuttle, together with its booster rockets, could fit inside, as could the Statue of Liberty. The basilica stands on the traditional site where Peter the apostle was crucified and buried. Construction on the current building began in 1506 and was completed in 1615. Many famous artists worked on the complex and its surroundings: Michelangelo designed the dome while Bernini designed the great St. Peter’s Square.

Number 26:

Borobudur.

Crafted out of an impressive two million blocks of volcanic stone, Borobudur in Indonesia is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Dating back to the 9th-century, it eventually fell into ruin until it was discovered again in the 1800s. Since then, it has been restored to its former glory and is particularly popular at sunrise. The Borobudur monument consists of six square platforms topped by three circular platforms. A pathway of enlightenment leads from the base of the pyramid up through the three levels of Buddhist cosmology, the world of forms, and the world of formlessness. It’s decorated with over 2,000 reliefs and 500 Buddha statues, each one outlining a Buddhist teaching.

Number 25:

Temples of Baalbek

Once known as the City of the Sun, Baalbek’s sprawling complex is home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins around. Of these, the two largest and grandest are the Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter. Created to be the largest temple in the Roman empire, the temple of Jupiter was lined by 54 massive granite columns each of which were 21 meters tall. Only 6 of these titanic columns remain standing but even they are incredibly impressive. The best preserved temple at the site is the Temple of Bacchus built in 150 AD. Although the site was pilfered over the centuries for building materials, Baalbek is still a significant historical site and is one of Lebanon’s most popular tourist attractions.

Number 24:

Acropolis

The Acropolis in Athens is a simply stunning sight. This monumental hill is the location of a number of ancient sites that date back to the 5th century BC. Some of the attractions that crown the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheum, and, of course, the Parthenon. Constructed at the peak of the Athenian Empire in 447 BC, the Parthenon is a symbol of Greece and impresses with its innumerable columns. After nightfall, the Acropolis is lit up with a glow that can be seen around Athens.

Number 23:

Chichen Itza

One of the most famous archaeological sites on Earth, Chichen Itza was once a thriving city on the Yucatan Peninsula. Built by the Mayans in 600 AD, it was abandoned in 1221 when Mayapan became the region’s new capital. Highlights include the Temple of Kukulkan, a giant stone pyramid with four stairways representing a compass and 365 steps for each day of the year. It is best visited during the spring or fall equinox when the sun creates a light show on the stairs of the pyramid. Other must-see sites include the Ball Court, the Wall of Skulls, and the Sacred Cenote that was once a site of human sacrifice.

Number 22:

Great Wall of China

Spreading through 15 Chinese provinces and autonomous regions, the Great Wall of China is the longest man-made structure in the world. It is made up of a series of separate sections of walls and moats that were built over the course of six Chinese dynasties as a defense from invaders. Now well over 2,000 years old, some parts of the wall have fallen into ruin. Interestingly, for those who wanted to attempt it, walking the entire length of the Great Wall of China would take approximately 18 months.

Number 21:

Christ the Redeemer

Perched atop the 2,330 feet high peak of Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, the statue of “Cristo Redentor” stands with arms outstretched, gazing serenely out over the city. Construction of the statue began in 1922 during the heyday of the Art Deco movement, and the concrete and soapstone statue is considered the largest statue designed in the genre in the world. Most visitors take a vertical cog train to reach the base of the summit. From there, visitors to the monument once had to climb hundreds of steps to reach the top. Today, elevators and escalators are available to shorten the trip.

Number 20:

Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is a magnificent representation of the Inca civilization before the Spanish Machu Picchu came. Nestled in the Peruvian Andes, Machu Picchu served as a palace for the emperor, a fortress and as a site for religious ceremonies where human sacrifices were made to appease the gods. Untouched by the Spanish, the site was abandoned after the conquest, only to be “discovered” by an American professor in the early 1900s. Built from polished stones, the city is a fascinating example of classical Inca architecture. With its spectacular views, Machu Picchu is Peru’s most visited tourist attraction.

Number 19:

Hagia Sophia

For almost 1,000 years, Hagia Sophia was the biggest cathedral in the world and is still a fantastic structure to set eyes on. Originally built as an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral in 537 when Istanbul was named Constantinople, Hagia Sophia became an Ottoman mosque from 1453 and is today a museum for all faiths to enjoy. The dome of the Hagia Sophia is a marvel in itself, and the building as a whole perfectly reflective of Byzantine architecture. Walking around the building today, you can piece together the history of the city with its intriguing murals and interesting artifacts.

Number 18:

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, stands upon Liberty Island and is one of the most famous symbols in the world. The construction of the statue was completed in France in July 1884 and arrived in New York the following year. From 1886 until the jet age, it was often one of the first glimpses of the United States for millions of immigrants. Lady Liberty on her pedestal stands at an impressive 305 feet, which visitors can climb for views of Brooklyn and Gustave Eiffel’s supportive framework.

Number 17:

Colosseum

One of the most famous buildings ever constructed, the Colosseum almost needs no introduction. Lying in the heart of Rome, the enormous oval amphitheatre is one of the Roman empire’s greatest architectural triumphs and remains standing almost 2000 years after it was completed. While three stories of huge arcades make up its outer wall, its interior boasts fantastic views of the endless seating areas and subterranean network of tunnels and rooms, which used to lie beneath the arena’s floor. Over the centuries, countless gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and even mock sea battles took place in the amphitheatre, which could hold up to 80,000 spectators. One of the most iconic symbols of Imperial Rome, the Colosseum is a must-see sight due to its awe-inspiring architecture, spectacular size, and historical importance.

Number 16:

Petra.

The Rose City of Petra is an ancient desert town that was carved out of pink sandstone cliffs by nomads thousands of years ago. Located in Jordan, tucked between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, it’s hard to believe the city was once filled with green gardens, palatial houses, and bustling markets. Instead, a walk or camel ride through the ruins of Petra will reveal abandoned caves, temples, and tombs hidden within the city walls. The two-story Treasury carved into the rock face is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the old city. It’s worth viewing for the facade alone but the interior with its Indiana-Jonesy royal tomb is worth a look.

Number 15: Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the most magnificent and largest of all the Angkor temples in Cambodia. Built around the first half of 12th century, the temple’s balance, composition and beauty make it one of the finest monuments in the world. A huge rectangular reservoir surrounds Angkor Wat which rises up through a series of three rectangular terraces to the central shrine and tower at a height of 669 feet. This arrangement reflects the traditional Khmer idea of the temple mountain, in which the temple represent Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hinduism.

Number 14:

Taj Mahal.

Located in Northern India, the Taj Mahal is an immense mausoleum of white marble, built by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife. The Taj is one of the most well preserved tombs in the world and one of the masterpieces of Mughal architecture. Called “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity”, the monument is actually an integrated complex of structures. Besides the white domed marble mausoleum it includes several other beautiful buildings, reflecting pools, and extensive ornamental gardens with flowering trees and bushes.

Number 13:

Pyramids of Giza.

Arguably the world’s most famous landmark, the Pyramids of Giza lie on the outskirts of Cairo, looking out over the endless sands of the Sahara. The pyramids in Giza were built over the span of three generations during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the oldest and sole remnant of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The pyramid is an awe-inspiring 455 feet high making it the largest pyramid in Egypt, although nearby Khafre’s Pyramid appears to be larger as it is build at a higher elevation.

Number 12:

Bagan

Embark on a mystical journey through Myanmar’s Bagan plain, where an ancient tapestry of thousands of pagodas and temples unfolds. Each structure whispers tales of a bygone Buddhist realm, weaving a rich narrative of spirituality and culture. The landscape, adorned with remnants of a flourishing kingdom, unveils a mesmerizing array of architectural styles crafted over centuries. It’s not just a sightseeing adventure; it’s a captivating exploration of the Burmese soul etched in stone and sacred stories.

Number 11:

The Empire State Building

In the heart of the bustling Big Apple, the Empire State Building reigns as a timeless icon. Built in 1931, its 102 floors stretch 1,250 feet high, a majestic silhouette that once claimed the title of the world’s tallest. From King Kong’s ascent to lovers’ vows on Valentine’s Day, it’s a living legend etched into the city’s skyline. Rivaled only by the Chrysler Building, this Art Deco masterpiece continues to capture hearts as the most photographed and adored structure, embodying the epitome of New York’s charm.

Number 10:

Stonehenge

Nestled in Wiltshire, England, the enigmatic Stonehenge beckons with its ancient allure. Crafted 4,500 years ago in the Neolithic Age, this stone circle, aligned with solstices, sparks wonder. Built with 30-ton stones, its purpose remains shrouded in mystery, presumed to be spiritual. Precise measurements defy the test of time, a testament to ancient engineering prowess. Virtual exploration unveils its secrets — immerse in the live “Skyscape” or embark on a virtual tour, unlocking the mystique of this enduring marvel from the comfort of modernity.

Number 9:

Versailles

Behold the epitome of opulence — Versailles, a royal masterpiece born from the vision of the “Sun King,” Louis XIV. What began as a humble hunting lodge near Paris transformed into an extravagant palace, a testament to power and wealth. Louis XIV’s relentless expansion, culminating in 1715, birthed the grandeur seen today. Step into the famed Hall of Mirrors, stretching 239 feet adorned with 357 mirrors, a dazzling display of decadence. Beyond its walls, the royal gardens stand as a testament to timeless grandeur, inviting awe and admiration.

Number 8:

The Forbidden City

Embark on a journey to the Forbidden City, a captivating marvel in the heart of Beijing. Crafted in 1420, this imperial complex boasts intricate Chinese architecture adorned in vibrant hues of yellow and red. Enclosed by a two-mile wall and a moat, it exudes mystery with its ominous name. Once forbidden to common folk, it housed the emperor, a “son of heaven.” Explore the Hall of Supreme Harmony, a grand spectacle atop marble terraces, unveiling the regal splendor and mythical allure within this ancient architectural masterpiece.

Number 7:

The Space Needle

Soar into the future with Seattle’s Space Needle, a 1962 World’s Fair masterpiece celebrating the “age of space.” Standing at 605 feet, its mid-century modern design exudes innovation. At its zenith, a flying saucer-like “top house” offers a Jetsons-esque spectacle. Don’t be fooled by its appearance; the sleek tripod legs ensure perfect balance. The top house, a glass-enclosed marvel, hosts the world’s sole revolving glass floor. Experience the awe with a live webcam on the Space Needle’s site, where futuristic beauty meets mid-century marvel.

Number 6:

La Sagrada Família

In the heart of Barcelona, Antoni Gaudí’s whimsical genius unfolds in La Sagrada Família — a masterpiece defying conventional description. Like a sculpted daydream, the church, under construction since 1882, is a kaleidoscope of curves, colors, and textures. Resembling a drip sandcastle, it enchants with towering spires and intricate stone details. Gaudí’s fantastical touch extends to vibrant pinnacles and mesmerizing stained glass windows, making La Sagrada Família a timeless symphony of architectural marvels set to reach completion in 2026.

Number 5:

Mont-Saint-Michel

Nestled off Normandy’s northern shore, Mont-Saint-Michel emerges as a medieval marvel atop a steep island. Viewed from a distance, it’s a celestial vision, seemingly floating above misty clouds. With tides as its dance partner, the island transforms — submerged at high tide, revealing a sandy path at low tide. Built in the Middle Ages, the monastery’s aura of danger and mystery endures. Wander into its mystique, where abbey spires reach for the heavens, and pathways beckon you through the ebb and flow of history.

Number 4:

The London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel situated on the banks of the River Thames, in London, England. The entire structure is 135 metres (443 ft) tall and the wheel has a diameter of 120 metres (394 ft). It is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, and the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom, visited by over 3.5 million people annually.

Number 3:

Mount Rushmore

Nestled in South Dakota’s Black Hills, Mount Rushmore stands tall — a testament to American history etched in granite. Adorning the mountain face are the revered visages of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. Beyond the monumental sculptures, dive into U.S. history at the visitor center, wander nature trails, or partake in the stirring evening lighting ceremony. Mount Rushmore beckons with a fusion of natural allure, cultural richness, and patriotic resonance — a pilgrimage where the past meets the present in a grand celebration of American heritage.

Number 2:

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a setting for state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a rallying point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and crisis. Originally known as Buckingham House, the building which forms the core of today’s palace was a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1705 on a site which had been in private ownership for at least 150 years.

Number 1:

Ellis Island

Set in New York Harbor, Ellis Island beckons as a gateway to America’s immigration saga. Explore the National Museum of Immigration, where the dreams of millions unfold. Wander through lush gardens, absorbing views of Lady Liberty. It’s a journey through time, weaving tales of hope and resilience. Ellis Island invites you to embrace the cultural tapestry that forged the American identity — an immersive experience, where history whispers in every corner, and the spirit of newcomers echoes across the waves of this historic harbor.

As our exploration of the 40 Greatest Man-Made Wonders of the World reaches its conclusion, I hope you’re filled with a sense of wonder and inspiration. These marvels are not just monuments of stone and steel, but testaments to the incredible potential of humankind.

But this journey doesn’t have to end here. I want to hear from you! Which wonder left you most amazed? Did any spark a particular curiosity or ignite a travel dream? Share your thoughts and feelings in the comments below.