The list of The 7 Wonders of the Ancient World is believed to have been created in the first century as greeks and epytians explored the area. Here we have them recreated with GIFs – how extraordinary!
The Colossus of Rhodes
This statue was of the Greek sun-god Helios. It was a symbol of victory. Though often portrayed straddling the entrance to the harbour this is not likely the case. It collapsed during an earthquake and the bronze was melted.
292 BC
The Great Pyramid of Giza
The largest pyramid built was built for King Khufu and is the only wonder still standing. For most of its existence it was the highest structure in the world.
2560bc
Hanging Gardens of Babylon
These fabled gardens may or may not have existed. They were built by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife.
565 BC
Lighthouse of Alexandria
Built by Ptolemy I and II it stood for 1600 years until it was destroyed by several eartquakes
280 BC
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Built by Mausolus as a tomb for himself and his wife. Thus mausoleum. It was eventually destroyed by catholic knights. The whereabouts of the bodies of Mausolus and his wife is unknown.
350 BC
Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Made of wood covered in gold it stood for 1000 years.
430BC
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
This large temple (twice the size of the Parthenon). It was destroyed and rebuilt but eventually torn down by a Christian mob. In its place now stands one column.
6th century BC
