The campaign to update the Seven Wonders of the World culminated in 2007. While the final list highlights some of the most extraordinary sites humanity and nature have to offer, many nominated places didn’t make the cut but are wonders in their own right. Let’s take a look.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and an iconic symbol of Cambodia. This temple complex, built in the early 12th century, is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and is dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. It later became a Buddhist temple and remains a significant spiritual site.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
Originally a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum, the Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. It has stood the test of time and religion, showcasing Istanbul’s complex history and cultural diversity. Its massive dome, considered an engineering marvel, and its stunning mosaics make it one of the most visited sites in Turkey.
Mount Fuji, Japan
Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak and an active stratovolcano that has become synonymous with the country’s natural beauty. It’s inspired artists and poets for centuries. Mount Fuji is a sacred site and a place of pilgrimage, embodying the spiritual and cultural essence of Japan.