Exploring Antiquity: Bettany Hughes Discusses the Seven Ancient Ponders of the World
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were a collection of awe-inspiring structures that encapsulated the spirit and ambition of their respective ages. These architectural marvels were first catalogued in the Laterculi Alexandrini, an ancient papyrus document dating back to the 2nd century BCE.
Let's delve into the stories of these legendary wonders.
The Great Pyramid at Giza, built over 4,500 years ago, was a giant resurrection machine for King Khufu. This architectural masterpiece was constructed using 2.3 million limestone blocks and originally cased in gleaming, polished, white Tura stone. Its mathematical precision is astonishing, with it being close to geometrically perfect.
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, built in the sixth century BC, was a testament to human ingenuity and accessibility. At the time of its construction, it would have resounded with the hum of 50,000-100,000 visitors. The temple was renowned as a place of sanctuary and was accessible to both kings and commoners.
The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, built by Mausolos with his wife Artemisia in c351 BC, was a hybrid of Assyrian, Egyptian, Greek, and Karian styles. Unfortunately, this magnificent structure was destroyed by war and earthquake. Artemisia, wife of Mausolos, became infamous for grinding down her husband's bones to drink them after his death. Interestingly, a number of the artists employed on the later building of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus would go on to work on other Wonders, such as the Colossus of Rhodes.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon, created between 691 and 550 BC, were a marvel of engineering and horticulture. They showcased exotic plants and trees, replicating and controlling nature itself, and were a venue for hosting visiting dignitaries.
The Temple of Artemis at Olympia, built around 430 BC, was another architectural masterpiece. It was a place of religious significance, dedicated to the goddess Artemis.
The Statue of Zeus, located in the Temple of Artemis, was an incarnation of divine and human potential. Unfortunately, this statue was taken to Constantinople in the early centuries AD and is believed to have been lost in a fire.
The Colossus of Rhodes, built in c302/292 BC, was a gargantuan representation of the sun-god Helios. It was probably erected high on the island overlooking the sanctuary of Helios.
These Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were exemplars of their age, projects of pioneering ambition that made extraordinary incursions into the landscape. They stand as a testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and ambition of the ancient civilisations that created them.
- The architecture of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, including the Great Pyramid, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, and the Colossus of Rhodes, not only encapsulated the spirit of their respective ages but also influenced contemporary lifestyle and travel, inspiring awe in visitors from around the world.
- The excavation of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World provides an opportunity for modern travelers to delve into the stories of these legendary landmarks, from the Great Pyramid in Giza to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity and ambition of the civilizations that created them.
