Journey to the Seven Ancient Wonders
Thousands of years ago, intrepid travelers chronicled the awe-inspiring sights they encountered on their grand voyages. Seven of these monumental achievements earned a place in history as the definitive Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, only the enduring Great Pyramids of Giza still stand as a testament to that era; the others succumbed to the ravages of time, fire, earthquakes, or human conflict and looting. Nevertheless, experts can still provide a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and architectural brilliance of these lost marvels. Exploring these incredible sites, including the legendary first seven wonders of the world, like the debated Hanging Gardens and the powerful 6th Ancient Wonder Of The World, the Colossus of Rhodes, offers a unique connection to the classical world and provides fascinating insights into human ingenuity across the millennia.
Imagine visiting the locations of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World across the Eastern Mediterranean, experiencing history firsthand while traveling in unparalleled comfort and on your own schedule. With luxurious travel options available, accessing these historic sites is more feasible than ever. Let’s embark on a journey through history and explore each of these remarkable wonders.
The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
Sunset casting long shadows over the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt
As noted by Johnny Ward of One Step 4Ward:
History and Construction
“The six Pyramids of Giza are located near Cairo, Egypt. The largest and most famous of these, the Great Pyramid, was commissioned by and built for the pharaoh Khufu. These monumental structures were constructed approximately 4,500 years ago, with the Great Pyramid specifically dating back to around 2550 BC. Subsequent pharaohs contributed other pyramids and the iconic Sphinx to the complex. The sheer scale of these constructions, particularly considering the limited technology available in ancient times, has led to much mystery surrounding the methods used to build them. The Great Pyramid of Giza held the title of the largest man-made structure in the world for nearly 3,800 years, until the completion of Lincoln Cathedral in England in the 14th century. Its outer structure alone is composed of over two million individual stone blocks.” It is widely recognized as [which is the first wonder of world] due to its age and status as the sole survivor.
Visiting the Pyramids Today
“Located only about 15 kilometers (roughly 9 miles) from the Egyptian capital of Cairo, the pyramids are relatively easy to access. Visitors have several transportation options to reach the site, including private taxis, public buses, or various shuttle services. A ticket is required to enter the pyramid complex and can be purchased at the entry and security kiosks. If you have pre-booked an organized tour, the ticket cost is typically included in the overall package.”
Travel Tips and Access
“Egypt experiences two primary seasons: a very hot summer spanning from May to October, and a mild winter lasting from November to April. Summer temperatures can be extremely high, making the milder winter period much more comfortable for sightseeing. Therefore, the ideal time to visit is immediately after summer concludes or at any point during the cooler winter months.” Flying into Cairo International Airport (CAI) via private charter flight offers a discreet and comfortable travel experience, minimizing interaction with other passengers. You can easily obtain a private jet quote for this journey. Once in Cairo, consider a private helicopter tour to see the historic city’s stunning sights and landmarks from above before heading to the Great Pyramid of Giza. Seeing this incredible sight from the air is an unforgettable experience.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon
Artistic rendering of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon under a blue sky
Legend and Location
Historical accounts suggest that the 6th-century BC Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar II commissioned the construction of a series of tiered gardens featuring hanging trees and lush plants around his palace. The popular belief is that he built them to appease his wife, Amytis of Media, who longed for the verdant landscapes of her Median homeland in northwestern Iran. While the palace and gardens are said to have been destroyed by powerful earthquakes, their very existence remains a subject of debate among archaeologists and historians due to a lack of definitive physical evidence or mentions in contemporary Babylonian texts. The earliest known descriptions of the gardens were recorded by Greek scholars centuries later, who placed their location in the heart of ancient Babylon, near present-day Hillah in Iraq.
Status Today and Visiting
The ‘wonder’ status of the gardens is largely attributed to the sophisticated and intricate irrigation system described by the Greeks, which reportedly drew water from the nearby river Euphrates to sustain the plant life in a region that was, and remains, largely arid. All that is believed to remain today of this ancient wonder of the world are scattered remnants of Nebuchadnezzar’s palace and fragments of the old city walls.
Getting There
The most practical way to reach the ruins of ancient Babylon is by arranging an aircraft charter to Baghdad International Airport (BGW). From Baghdad, you can take a taxi south towards Hillah in central Iraq. The historical area is open to tourists, but it is crucial to review your government’s official travel advisories for Iraq before planning your trip. There are no tickets required to view the site.
The optimal time of year to visit Iraq is between November and April. During this period, temperatures are considerably milder compared to the scorching summer months, typically ranging between 16-21°C (61-70°F), making exploration much more comfortable.
Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Depiction of the Golden Statue of Zeus seated at Olympia
According to The Fairytale Traveler:
Creation and Fate
“The magnificent Statue of Zeus at Olympia was created around 435 BC by the renowned Athenian sculptor Phidias. It was conceived and built as a tribute to Zeus, who was considered the most powerful and mightiest god in the Greek pantheon and is also associated with the origins of the Olympic Games. Tragically, the statue no longer exists, and the precise circumstances surrounding its demise and destruction are not definitively known. Several myths and theories attempt to explain what happened, with some suggesting it was damaged by fire while others propose it was intentionally dismantled. Regardless of the cause, all that remains at the site today are foundational rocks and debris. Olympia itself is now a small town located in Elis on the Peloponnese peninsula in modern-day Greece.” Zeus is often considered [who is the first wonder of the world] in the context of the list originating in Greece, linking him to the very concept of the wonders.
The Site Today
“As there is no dedicated airport in Olympia, you will need to travel by road from either Patras (Araxos Airport; GPA) or Athens International Airport (ATH). Araxos Airport in Patras operates seasonally, mainly during the summer, and serves both small private jet charters and budget flights. Athens International is a larger airport, handling domestic and international flights throughout the year. From either city, you have the option of taking a bus service to Olympia or renting a car for the drive. The historical temple site is situated at the corner of Amalias and Vasilisis Olgas streets.”
Travel Information
“Tickets for the site can be purchased directly on location and cost €12 (approximately $14.40 USD). The archaeological site is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The peak tourist season in Greece begins in April (spring) and concludes in late October (fall). My personal recommendation for travelers is to visit a destination at the beginning or end of its busy season. This approach allows you to enjoy the best possible weather while avoiding the largest crowds.”
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
Epicure and Culture shares their perspective:
Historical Significance
“When visiting the ancient site of Ephesus in Turkey, there are several buildings of particular historical importance to explore. Among these is the location of the once exceptionally beautiful marble Temple of Artemis, which dates back to the mid-6th century BC. It was dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess revered as the protector of wilderness, animals, and fertility. Although today only its foundational base and scattered columns remain, their presence still allows visitors to imagine the immense scale and significance of this grand building.”
What Remains and Visiting
“During my visit, I opted for a tour originating from Kusadasi, a large resort town situated on Turkey’s Aegean coast. I found Kusadasi to be the primary gateway for visiting the ancient site, with an abundance of tour operators available. Many cruise ships also dock here, offering their passengers excursions to Ephesus. While entrance to Ephesus itself costs 40 Turkish lira, access to the specific site of the Temple of Artemis is free of charge.”
Planning Your Visit
“There are numerous local tour companies offering excursions, and I highly recommend utilizing one of their services. Booking a tour eliminates the need to worry about transportation, often includes other local experiences, and most importantly, provides valuable context and interpretation, allowing you to gain a much deeper understanding of what you are seeing. The most pleasant time to visit Ephesus is during the spring (April and May) and fall (October and November) months when the weather is mildest. If you happen to visit in the summer, as I did, be sure to come prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat.”
Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Artistic rendering of the towering Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Origins and Design
This elaborate tomb structure was commissioned around 353 BC by Artemisia II of Caria for her husband and brother, Mausolus, the Persian satrap, upon his death. Built by renowned Greek architects Pythius of Priene and Scopas of Paros, the Mausoleum stood approximately 135 feet (41 meters) tall. It was strategically placed on a hill offering commanding views over the ancient city of Halicarnassus, located near what is now the bustling town of Bodrum in Turkey. The structure was celebrated for its opulent decoration, featuring intricate statues, graceful columns, and rich coverings of marble and gold. While the original list includes this as one of the seven, debates continue regarding what constitutes the [5 wonder of the world] in various alternative lists.
Destruction and Legacy
The Mausoleum survived the city’s capture by Alexander the Great but was eventually destroyed by a series of earthquakes between the 12th and 15th centuries AD. Today, only its foundational remnants are visible at the site. Such was the fame and impressive nature of its structure that the name ‘Mausolus’ became the root for the modern English word ‘mausoleum,’ used to describe any grand, impressive above-ground tomb.
How to Visit Bodrum
The most common way to reach Bodrum is by flying into Istanbul first. Istanbul offers multiple airports accommodating private plane and charter flights, including Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul Atatürk Airport (ISL – now primarily cargo/general aviation), and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). SAW is particularly convenient for private aviation, offering a separate private terminal for smooth and discreet transfers from your private aircraft to ground transportation. From Istanbul, you can take a connecting flight or a bus service to Bodrum. The archaeological site of the Mausoleum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and a small entrance ticket of 8 YTL (approximately $1 USD) is required.
Travel Tips
The most comfortable time of year to visit the site is between November and April. During these months, the temperature is moderate, generally ranging between 16-25°C (61-77°F). Summers in this region can be intensely hot, with temperatures often reaching a high of 35°C (95°F).
Colossus of Rhodes
Illustration of the Colossus of Rhodes standing with a flaming torch
David’s Been Here provides insight into the Colossus:
Statue’s Purpose and Size
“The Colossus of Rhodes was a colossal statue depicting the Greek titan-god of the sun, Helios. It was erected in the city of Rhodes, located on the island of the same name (the largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands), by the sculptor Charles of Lindos in 280 BC. The construction was undertaken to commemorate Rhodes’ victory over the ruler of Cyprus, Antigonus I Monophthalmus, whose son failed in his attempt to besiege the city in 305 BC. Often cited as the 6th Ancient Wonder Of The World in historical lists, before its destruction by an earthquake in 226 BC, the Colossus of Rhodes stood more than 98 feet (30 meters) tall, making it one of the tallest statues constructed in the ancient world.”
Fate and Modern Relevance
“The earthquake that struck in 226 BC caused significant damage, breaking the statue at the knees. Despite an offer from Ptolemy III Euergetes of Egypt to fund its reconstruction, the Rhodians, citing an oracle’s prophecy, decided not to rebuild it. The fallen pieces lay on the ground for centuries before being eventually sold for scrap in the 7th century AD. Today, while the statue itself is long gone, the legend of the Colossus endures, and discussions continue about potentially building a modern replica.”
Visiting Rhodes Island
“The most straightforward way to reach Rhodes Town is by flying from Athens to Rhodes Island, which conveniently has its own international airport (RHO). You do not need any tickets to visit the location where the statue once stood in the harbor.”
Travel Tips
“The optimal time of year to travel to Rhodes to experience the site of the Colossus is between April and October. The weather is most mild and pleasant during the shoulder months of April, May, September, and October. The summer months of June, July, and August can be extremely hot, which might make exploring less comfortable.”
Lighthouse of Alexandria
Dramatic depiction of the Lighthouse of Alexandria amidst lightning and stormy seas
Function and Structure
The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was constructed during the Hellenistic period, around 250 BC. Its strategic location at the mouth of the harbor in Alexandria, a major Mediterranean port city in Egypt, served a vital purpose: guiding sailors safely back to port. The lighthouse was an impressive structure, estimated to have stood between 383 feet (117 meters) and 450 feet (137 meters) high. It was built using light-colored stone blocks. During the day, a large mirror positioned at the summit would reflect sunlight far out to sea, while a fire was kept burning at night to emit light and signal ships.
Decline and Remains
The Lighthouse withstood several earthquakes over the centuries but was ultimately destroyed by three significant seismic events occurring between 956 AD and 1323 AD. It remained a ruin until 1480 AD, when the stones from the collapsed structure were reused in the construction of the medieval Fort Qaitbay, which was built on the exact same site at the harbor entrance. Underwater archaeological expeditions in recent decades have discovered significant remnants of the lighthouse on the seabed near the fort.
Travel Guide to Alexandria
The most convenient way to reach Alexandria is by flying into its main airport, Borg El Arab Airport (HBE). This airport features a runway capable of accommodating even larger private jets, making it suitable for travelers in bigger groups. From HBE, you can easily take a taxi, train, or bus to the city center and the harbor area. Car hire services are also available from around $40 USD per day if you prefer independent transportation. Since the 15th-century Fort Qaitbay now houses a maritime museum, entrance to the fort costs approximately $35 USD for adults.
Travel Tips
The most favorable time to visit Alexandria is during the spring months, from March through June, and the fall months, from September through November. It is generally advisable to avoid visiting Alexandria during the summer, as many Egyptians from hotter inland cities like Cairo flock to the coast to escape the heat, resulting in crowded conditions.
Charter a Plane to Visit the Ancient Wonders
Exploring these sites provides a profound connection to ancient civilizations and offers a wealth of historical knowledge. With luxury travel solutions like those offered by Air Charter Service (ACS), you don’t have to sacrifice modern comforts and luxury to delve into the past. Contact ACS to discover how a private jet charter can transform your trip to the remnants of the ancient world into an unforgettable travel experience. Accessing these incredible sites has never been easier or more comfortable, blending historical exploration with unparalleled convenience, allowing you to curate a journey that includes stops to contemplate the scale of these wonders and perhaps even consider what sites like the [grand canyon wonder of world] might mean to future generations.
