In 2001, the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation conducted an international poll to update the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  After more than 100 million votes and international campaigns, the  finalists were announced on July 7th, 2007. From Mexico to India, the  new wonders represented the magnificent man-made marvels of the modern  day. 

Chichen Itza, Mexico
With a name meaning “At the  mouth of the well of Itza”, Chichen Itza is the ruins of a Mayan  civilization, dating back to about 600 AD. It served as a political and  economic center and housed magnificent buildings including, temples  (including Temple of Warriors and Temple of Chac Mool), the Hall of the  Thousand Pillars and the last Mayan temple, the pyramid of Kulkulkan.  The site fell into disrepair over the centuries through various  invasions, looting and abandonment. 
 
   

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
The iconic statue of  Jesus Christ, standing atop Corcovado Mountain that overlooks Rio de  Janeiro, is the symbol of peace, warmth and welcoming nature of the  Brazilian people. It was designed by Heitor da Silva Costa, sculpted by  French artist Paul Landowski and completed in 1931 after five years of  construction. 
 
   

The Colosseum, Italy
The mother of all sports  stadiums, the Colosseum in Rome was built between 70 and 82 AD. At its  height, the amphitheater could seat up to 50,000 spectators, who enjoyed  various public spectacles including the infamous gladiator fights,  animal hunts, executions and dramas. The site was partially ruined after  an earthquake, but still stands today as a testament to the prowess of  Imperial Rome. 
 
   

Great Wall of China, China
The 4,000 mile brick wall  was erected to fortify the northern borders of the Chinese Empire  against Mongol invasion. Construction first began in 8th century BC and  the majority was completed during the Ming Dynasty between 1368 and 1644  AD. 
 
   

Machu Picchu, Peru
One of the lost cities of the  world, Machu Picchu is an awe-inspiring ruin of the Inca civilization.  Check out our previous post on panaromic views from the top of Machu Picchu
 
   

Petra, Jordan
Another  lost city of the world, Petra dates back to the 6th century BC, when it  was the capital city of the Nabataens, the masters of water technology.  The stone-cut architecture, which survived centuries, makes it one of  the most fascinating and beautiful sites in the world. 
 
   

Taj Mahal, India
The majestic Taj Mahal in Agra is  the most epic display of love in history. Emperor Shah Jahan built the  marble mausoleum in 1630 AD to honor the memory of his deceased wife.  After its construction, legends insist the architect responsible for the  design had his hands cut off so that he couldn’t create anything  similar ever again. The Taj Mahal is considered the best representation  of Muslim art in India.
 
  