Japan is an ancient country with much to offer the tourist. Probably the majority of sites are religious in nature, although there are some modern structures which deserve mention.  Here is my list of the top seven, to be followed shortly by a photo album.

 

     1. Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto. This is one of the most revered of Japan's temples. It sits on a mountainside and the complex contains a waterfall which is thought to have therapeutic properties. There are several other shrines within the complex as well. It is a World Heritage Site and was a finalist in the voting for the New Seven Wonders of the World.

 

     2. Great Buddha, Kamakura. This outdoor, seated Buddha is over 40 feet tall and weighs 93 tons. It was cast in 1272. The city of Kamakura is only about 30 miles south of Tokyo so is a popular day-trip from the capital.

 

     3. Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto. This temple, better known as the Golden Pavilion, sits on Mirror Pond and has a wonderful Japanese garden next to it. Its top two floors are covered with pure gold leaf.

 

     4. Nijo Castle, Kyoto. This complex consists of two concentric rings of fortifications and houses the remains of two palaces and several gardens. It was built as a residence for the local Shoguns. One curious feature of the castle is its "nightingale floors," designed to squeak like birds when an intruder walks along the corridors.

 

     5. Todaiji Temple, Nara. This Buddhist temple is thought to be the largest wooden temple in the world and houses a large, bronze, Daibutsu Buddha, over 50 feet tall, which was completed in 751 AD. The complex contains other  buildings as well as gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

     6. Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo. More appropriately known as the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market, this is the largest fish market in the world, and a major tourist sight for visitors to Tokyo. It offers more than 400 different types of seafood and over 2,000 metric tons are handled each day.

 

     7. Katsura Imperial Villa, Kyoto. This mansion is one of Japan's architectural treasures and includes magnificent Japanese gardens, a tea house and other buildings, mostly done in the shoin style.

 

      Other sights considered:

          Ryoan-ji, Kyoto

          Kyoto Imperial Palace

          Sento Imperial Palace, Kyoto

         

    Peru is an important country in South America. It is not only the source of the Amazon River, the world's largest, but it was also the center of the Inca civilization, perhaps the most advanced pre-Columbian civilization in the New World. Many of its man-made wonders are associated with its native people, but there are also several more modern examples of man's presence here which are worthy of note, particularly in its two major cities, Lima and Cusco. Below is my list of Peru's most important man-made structures, to be followed by a photo album.

 

    1. Machu Picchu, near Cusco. Dating back to 1450 AD, this "lost city of the Incas" is the most spectacular pre-Columbian site in South America. It has been voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is, of course, a World Heritage Site. The buildings are all constructed of polished, dry stone and are combined without mortar, a technique called "ashlar," for which the Inca are world-renowned.

 

    2. Nazca Lines, in the western part of the country, south of Lima. These geoglyphs were created between 200 BC and 700 AD in an area which covers over 200 square miles. There are over seventy (70) animal, insect and human figures along with many more geometric lines. Most scholars assume that the purpose of the lines was somehow religious in nature, but no one knows for sure.

 

    3. Cathedral, Cusco. This large and beautiful church sits on the Plaza de Armas and is one of the major focal points for most visitors to this ancient city.

 

    4. Cathedral, Lima. Begun by Francesco Pizarro, conqueror of the Incas, this Colonial masterpiece contains his tomb as well as numerous sculptures and other artwork.

 

    5.  Aqueduct, Cumbe Mayo. This 5-mile long aqueduct is thought to have been constructed in 1500 BC, making it the oldest man-made structure still in existence in South America.

 

    6. Choquequirao. This Incan "sister city" of Machu Picchu (see above) is just as impressive but not as frequently visited. It was built in 1535 AD and is thought to have been the last area and refuge of the Incans when the city of Cusco was under siege.

 

    7. Agricultural Terraces, Moray. The Inca ruins here consist of several terraced depressions which were used to determine the effects of altitude on crops. The resourceful Incans used a complex irrigation system to supply water to the entire area.

 

 

      Santo Domingo Church, Cusco.

      Gran Vilaya Archaeological Site

      Governor's Palace, Lima

      Cathedral, Arequipa

      Casas Antiguas, Trujillo

 

 

    Central America is a collection of seven (7) small countries whose historic past is closed tied with native american populations such the aztecs. There are numerous ruins scattered in the jungles which attest to this fact. However, there are also some more recent structures which qualify in this group of man-made wonders. Look below for my list and descriptions, then check out the photo album which is due to follow.

 

    1. Tikal, Guatemala. Tikal is the largest ancient Mayan ruin and is a World Heritage Site. Some of its architecture dates back to the 4th century BC, although most of the buildings are more modern. Curiously, the entire city survived on seasonal rainwater stored in underground facilities. The two most prominent buildings, the Temple of the Great Jaguar and the Temple of the Moon face each other on the Plaza Mayor (Main Square).

 

    2. Copan, Honduras. Copan, another ancient Mayan city, is located in southern Honduras, near the Guatemalan border. It is famous for its elaborately carved stelae, standing stone monuments, intricately worked, some of the best pre-Columbian art in all of Mesoamerica.

 

    3. Panama Canal, Panama. One of the greatest engineering projects of the Twentieth Century, this travel lane for ships across the Isthmus of Panama connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and eliminates the need to circumnavigate the South American continent on the way from the Far East to Europe and vice versa. The idea was first attempted by the French, but they failed with the loss of 22,000 workers. The United States then continued the project and completed the canal in 1914. The country of Panama assumed complete control of the Canal Zone in 1999.

 

    4. Cathedral of Santiago, Antigua, Guatemala. This church is one of a number of buildings in this former capital which exhibits Spanish Baroque architecture with a Mudejar (Moorish) influence.

 

    5. Casco Viejo, Panama City, Panama. This part of the city is the Old Quarter and contains much Colonial architecture and the majority of the sights which would interest the traveler. In particular, these attractions include Las Bovedas, a waterfront promenade which juts into the Pacific Ocean, the Cathedral, and Heron's Palace, the Presidential compound.

 

    6. Forts at Portobelo, near Colon, Panama. Portobelo, a port city in the vicinity of Colon, is famous for its fortifications, the ruins of which have been recognized as a World Heritage Site. Note that these imposing forts were not strong enough to resist the attack and capture of the city by the pirate Captain Henry Morgan.

 

    7. National Theater, San Jose, Costa Rica. This theater is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the capital city. The ornate interior showcases the art of the country. It is still used for performances and is the home of Costa Rica's National Symphonic Orchestra.

    Brazil is another country, like the USA and Canada, which is blessed with numerous natural wonders. However, it also has some significant man-made structures as well. See my list below.

 

     1. Statue of Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro. This 130-foot tall statue sits at the top of Corcovado Mountain and overlooks the city of Rio de Janeiro. The icon turned 75 years old in October of 2006. It was recently voted in as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, in a competition sponsered and supervised by the Swiss-based New Open World Corporation.

 

     2. Brasilia City Plan. Brasilia is the modern-designed, totally planned capital of Brazil. The city plan was the work of Lucio Costa (city planner) and Oscar Niemeyer (architect). It has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its innovative style and architecture. Some of its distinctive and unusual buildings include the National Congress Building, the Alvorada Palace (residence of the President), and Our Lady of Aparecida Basilica/Cathedral.

 

     3. Church of San Francisco, Salvador de Bahia. The Baroque interior of this church is unequaled in all of Brazil. The inside is filled with gilded woodwork and artwork. The church dates from the early 18th century.

 

     4. Bom Jesus de Matosinhos, Congonhas. The Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Congonhas is another of Brazil's Baroque masterpieces. It was designed and carried out by Aleijadinho, one of the greatest Baroque artists in the world. The sanctuary has also been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. 

 

     5. Igereja de Nossa do Senhora do Carmo, Ouro Preto. Completed in the mid-1700's, this is another Baroque masterpiece by Aleijadinho. Its location in the former mining town guaranteed that no expense would be spared in its construction.

 

     6. Palacio do Itamaraty, Brasilia. This building is the home of Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs and is one of the best examples of Brasilia's unique, modern architecture. Entrance is across a bridge over a pool dotted with islands of tropical plants. The sculpture and artwork inside is breath-taking.  

 

     7. Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro. This festival is celebrated several days before the onset of the Christian religious period of Lent and is signified by overindulgence prior to the sacrifices which must be made over the next forty days. The most elaborate and hedonistic carnival celebration takes place in Rio de Janeiro, with parades and many other activities.

 

     Other sites considered:

          Imperial Museum (Former Royal Palace), Petropolis, near Rio

          Municipal Theater, Rio de Janeiro

          Cathedral of Se, Belem

    

    Russia, although the largest country in the world, is largely unpopulated except for its western section, nearest Europe. As a result of its very isolated areas, all of the countries man-made wonders are found in its far west. They are concentrated around the two major cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. Check out my list of these fantastic wonders below and then check out my photo album.

 

     1. Kremlin, Moscow. This massive complex on historic Red Square contains four palaces, four cathedrals and is surrounded by an imposing wall.  It is also the official residence of the President of Russia. Construction began in the late 15th century and continued until 1516. Notable structures include the Grand Kremlin Palace, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, tallest structure in the city until the Russian Revolution, and the Church of the Deposition with its superb frescoes and artwork.

 

     2. St Basil's Cathedral, Moscow. This distinctive cathedral, located on Red Square, is also known as the Cathedral of Intercession of the Virgin on the Moat. Its multi-colored onion domes top the structure which is really nine separate chapels on a single foundation. The church was built in the mid-1500's, and there is no truth to the rumor that its architect was blinded by Ivan the Terrible to prevent the construction of any building to equal its beauty.

 

     3. The Hermitage/Winter Palace, St Petersburg. This palace-turned museum is now one of the largest art museums in the world with an immense collection of especially European art, due to the fascination of the Russian Tsars with all things European. The collection began with Catherine the Great in the mid-1700's. Now the complex consists of six (6) buildings, with the rooms of the Winter Palace a major attraction for tourists.

 

     4. Peterhof Palace, just west of St Petersburg. This huge palace, sometimes referred to as Russia's Versailles, was commissioned and begun in the early 18th century. Perhaps it most famous for its cascading fountains and meticulous grounds, adroned with elaborate sculptures. The palace interior is no less impressive, truly a grand and opulent residence. 

 

     5. Pushkin (Catherine) Palace, outside of St Petersburg. This Rococo masterpiece, the summer palace of the Russian Tsars thoughout the 18th century, is about 15 miles southeast of St Petersburg. Although totally destroyed by the Germans in World War II, much of the orginal has been restored. Notable rooms include the Agate rooms, the Ballroom, and the Palace Chapel.

 

     6. Assumption (Dormition) Cathedral, Vladimir. One of the largest cathedrals in Russia, this magnificent edifice was built in the 12th century. The exterior of the church is adorned with elaborate carvings and contains five domes. The tall bell tower next to the church was added later.

 

     7. Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood, St Petersburg. This magnificent church commemorates the assassination of Alexander II on this site in March, 1881. It resembles St Basil's Church in Moscow (see above) with its colorful exterior and onion domes. Its interior ceiling and walls are covered in intricate mosaics, depicting Biblical scenes.

 

     Other sites considered:

         Transfiguration Cathedral, Suzdal

         St Isaac's Cathedral, St Petersburg

         Menshikov Palace, St Petersburg

         Pavlovsk Palace, outside of St Petersburg

    Australia, though recognized as a country with great natural beauty, also has its share of man-made wonders. Here is a list of them. Look for my photo album which will follow shortly.

 

     1. Sydney Opera House, Sydney. Completed in 1973, this recently-acknowledged World Heritage Site is probably the most recognized symbol of Australia. Its most distinctive features are its concrete shells within shells which seem to convey a futuristic, yet functional and pleasing ensemble.

 

     2. Great Ocean Road, Victoria. This glorious scenic drive along the southern coast of Australia, from Torquay to Warrnambool is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in the world. It was completed in 1932 and provides incredible vistas of the Southern Ocean as well as the unusual rock formations, such as the Twelve Apostles, which characterize this rugged coastline.  

 

     3. Harbor Bridge,Sydney. This distinctive bridge, the fourth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world, celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2007. It allows rail, vehicular, and pedestrian traffic between two sections of the city, divided by the harbor. For tourists, there is a walk up the southern side of the bridge, known as Bridge Climb, which provides wonderful views of the harbor and the Opera House below.

 

     4. Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne. These gardens are considered Australia's best and one of the world's best landscape gardens. There is even a satellite section, south of the city which concentrates on native plants.

 

     5. Royal Exhibition Buildings, Melbourne. This building is another World Heritage Site, dating to 1880 when the World Exhibition was displayed here in Melbourne. The dome was inspired by Bruneleschi's dome on the Duomo of Florence. It is still used for special events.

 

     6. Australian War Memorial, Canberra. This Byzantine-inspired memorial to all of Australia's war dead consists of four main elements: the Anzac Parade, a Commemorative Area, a sculpture garden, and the distinctive memorial building.

 

     7. Shrine of Remembrance, Melbourne. This war memorial was patterned after the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It is located in an area of parkland known as the King's Domain and consists of several sections which recall various wars or battles in which Australians, in particular, Victorians, lost their lives.

 

       Other sites considered:

          Perth Mint. Perth

          Flinders Street Station, Melbourne

          AMP Tower, Sydney

          Port Arthur Church, Tasmania

          Katoomba Scenic Railway, Blue Mountains

          City Hall, Brisbane

 

    

    Egypt is most often associated with the Egyptian Civilization which thrived from about 3000 BC to 100 BC. Thankfully, there are many reminders of this era still available to the traveler. Along the Nile River, the longest in the world, there are many ancient sites with well-preserved or restored ruins of this glorious period. Besides these ancient relics, there are also many modern wonders since Egypt is, still today, a major player on the global scene. My list of Egypt's seven man-made wonders is found below. Look for the photo album which will follow directly.

 

     1. Great Pyramids of Giza, just south of Cairo. The only one of the original, ancient Seven Wonders of the World which still stands, the Great Pyramid (Khufu's burial chamber) was constructed in 2560 BC and was the tallest building in the world for 3,800 years. It is joined on this plane by two other pyramids and the Sphinx, a half-lion, half-man who was probably built to guard the burial chambers.

 

     2. Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple, Luxor. This huge complex of ancient temples is located on the Nile River in Luxor, which was once the ancient city of Thebes. Many Pharoahs contributed structures to the complex, which was begun in the 16th century BC. The main part of the complex is the Precinct of Amun-Re and it is the only section which can be visited today.

         The dramatic entrance through the First Pylon of the Temple of Luxor is flanked by two large statues of a sitting Ramses II. The large obelisk in view has a twin in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. The Colonnade and the Peristyle courtyards are other interesting areas.

 

     3. Great Temple of Abu Simbel. There are actually two temples here, both carved out of the rock. Both were constructed by Rameses II, in the 13th century BC, the larger one for himself and the other one for his consort, Queen Nefertari.  The larger temple has a facade consisting of four, colossal statues of the Pharoah, over 60 feet tall.

 

     4. Valley of the Kings, Luxor. This giant necropolis was the place that Egyptian pharoahs were buried for nearly five (5) centuries, beiginning in the 16th century BC. The most famous tomb is that of Tutankhamen, or King Tut as he is sometimes known. There are at least 63 tombs in the valley, some of which are open to tourists.

 

     5. The Citadel, Cairo. This area near the center of Cairo was fortified by Saladin in the 12th century AD in expectation of the Crusades. There are three (3) mosques and several other buildings in the complex which presides over the city below.

 

     6. New Library, Alexandria. The ancient library of Alexandria was the world's largest and most prestigious. No one is quite sure when and why it was destroyed, but, in 2003, the city of Alexandria completed construction of a new library (Bibliotheca Alexandrina), near the site of the old one. This new library, modernistic in its design, is a symbol of the investment being made here to restore the city as an academic and educational center.

 

     7. Valley of the Queens, Luxor. This necropolis, near the Valley of the Kings (see above) was the burial place for the wives of the pharoahs for hundreds of years. There are probably over 70 tombs, the foremost being the tomb of Nefertari, wife of Ramses II, one of Egypt's most prominent kings.

 

      Other sites considered:

         Temple of Isis, Agilika Island, Aswan

         Temple of Horus, Edfu

         Temple of Hathor, Abu Simbel

         Step Pyramid, Saqqara

         Tombs of the Nobles, Luxor

         Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo

         Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, Cairo

     Mexico was home to a number of Pre-Columbian civilizations that have left remains of their sophisticated and rich cultures for modern travelers to appreciate. Thus there are a number of fantastic sites which recall these ancient times. Since the arrival of Europeans, the Mexican culture has added many more modern wonders. Thus, choosing seven from the wealth of man-made structures is difficult and arbitrary. However, here is my list, to be followed shortly by a photo album.

 

     1. Chichen Itza, Quintana Roo, the Yucatan. This huge archaeological site preserves the remains a large ceremonial center, inhabited by the Mayans beginning in around 600 AD. The religious nature of of the city revolves around the sacred cenote (well) which has been determined to hold the remains of human sacrifice. The signature site on the grounds is El Castillo, a large step pyramid which symbolizes the Mayan's obsession with time.

 

     2. Teotihuacan, just north of Mexico City. This city, just north of Mexico City, dates to the first century AD. Its founders are still unknown and debated, but it later became an important Toltec site. The largest building in the complex is the Temple of the Sun which flanks the Avenue of the Dead, a broad thoroughfare. Excavations still continue at the site.

 

     3. Palenque, on the Yucatan peninsula. This Mayan site is located in southern Mexico, at the base of the Yucatan Peninsula. Although not as large as some other sites of this type, it nevertheless preserves some excellent examples of Mayan architecture and sculpture. The city apparently dates to around 600 AD.

 

     4. Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City. One of the largest cathedrals in the Americas, this edifice sits on Mexico City's main square, the Zocalo. The magnificent Baroque structure was consecrated in 1667, although construction continued for almost 150 years. Its towers soar almost 200 feet and contain 18 bells.  

 

     5. Uxmal, near Merida, on the Yucatan peninsula. This archaeological remnant of the Mayan civilization is located about 50 miles south of the city of Merida, in the Western Yucatan. It is considered the one of the best examples of Puuc architecture in all of Mexico. Noteworthy buildings include the Governor's Palace and the Pyramid of the Magician.  

 

     6. Cathedral, Guadalajara. This distinctive cathedral, with its yellow-tiled towers, actually on the Plaza de Armas, dominates one end of the pedestrian-only avenue known as Plaza Tapatia. Its altarpieces are particularly striking.

 

     7. Monte Alban, just outside of Oaxaca. This site, only about 5 miles from the city of Oaxaca, in southern Mexico, is one of Mesoamerica's oldest cities. The location dates to about 500 BC and was presumably inhabited by the Zapotec civilization, which seems to have had commercial dealings with Teotihuacan to the north.

 

        Other sites considered:

           Tulum, south of Cancun, on the Yucatan coast.

           Tenochtitlan, Mexico City

           Xochimilco, just south of Mexico City

           Chapultepec Park, Mexico City

           Cathedral, Puebla

          

    Thailand, fomerly Siam, is an extremely interesting southeast Asian country which is taking great pains to preserve its past glory. Bangkok, in particular, contains a wealth of structures which exemplify this Buddhist country. Check out my choices for the best seven of its many man-made wonders. A photo album will be posted subsequently.

 

     1. Royal Palace, Bangkok. This grand complex, along the Chao Phraya River, contains a number of striking and significant buildings. Among them are the Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Chakri Mahaprasad Hall. This location was the official residence of the king from the 18th to the mid-20th century. 

 

     2. Wat Pho, Bangkok. Also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, this religious center and place of pilgrimage is adjacent to the royal palace. The famous buddha is over 130 feet long and about 50 feet tall, covered in gold with inlaid mother-of-pearl. It is the oldest temple in the city.

 

     3. Wat Arun. Bangkok. This temple, the Temple of the Dawn, is a large complex on the western side of the Chao Phraya River. Its central prang (tower) is extremely tall and is visible from a great distance because of its location on the river. The towers are decorated with shells and bits of porcelain which were used as ballast for ships coming from China.

 

     4. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai. This popular pilgrimage site, just outside the city of Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, dates from 1383 and is, perhaps, most famous for the legend of the White Elephant which inspired the king to build this shrine and temple.

 

     5. Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya. These ruins, recognized by UNESCO in 1981 and designated a World Heritage Site, preserve the remains of the royal palace of the former capital of Thailand (Siam) (1350 - 1767).  

 

     6. Wat Traimit, Bangkok. This temple is the home of the largest solid-gold buddha in the world. The buddha weighs 5 1/2 tons and is fifteen feet tall. It was cast in the 13th century, but was covered up with plaster for much of its life until accidentally dropped in 1955.

 

     7. Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai. This temple is also a center for meditation and dates to 1345. It is located within the city walls and is a classic example of Northern Thia architecture.

 

       Other sites considered:

           Bridge Over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi

           Wat Benchamabophit, Bangkok

           Vimanek Palace, Bangkok

    The Czech Republic, only recently opened to the world from its long-time position behind the Iron Curtain, is rich in cultural and historical treasures. Its capital, Prague, has become a major tourist destination and has fomented the appreciation of Eastern Europe by travelers. Bohemia and Moravia, the major cultural regions of the country are blessed with other attractions besides the impressive capital city. See my choices for the seven wonders of the country below and then look for my photo album, soon to follow.

 

    1. Prague Castle, Prague. One of the largest castles in the world, Prague Castle still holds the Bohemian Crown Jewels. The Romanesque Basilica of St George is the oldest building in the complex, dating to the 10th century. Construction on the huge, Gothic St Vitus Cathedral began in 1344. Ir dominates the skyline of the Castle District of the city and can be seen for miles. An interesting section of the castle complex, known as Golden Lane, contained the tiny, colorful residences of the workers.

 

    2. Chateau & Castle, Cesky Krumlov. The second largest castle in the Czech Republic can be found in the small town of Cesky Krumlov, in the southern part of the country. Most of the buildings in the complex date to the 14th century. Perhaps the most interesting structure in the castle is its Baroque theater, complete with its original stage machinery, scenery and props.

 

    3. Karlstejn Castle, just west of Prague. This large, Gothic castle, just a few miles southwest of Prague, was built in the mid-14th century and, for many years, held the Czech coronation jewels. It is popular with tourists who appreciate its setting and its artwork.

 

    4. Old Town Square, Prague. This glorious complex of buildings creates one of the most elegant and distinctive squares in all of Europe. From the Gothic Tyn Church to the Baroque St Nicholas Church to the Astronomical Clock (check out the walk of the Apostles each hour), there are numerous sights to interest the tourist. There are also many places to relax, have a cup of coffee or a beer and people-watch.

 

     5. Chateau, Litomysl. This large and prominent Renaissance-style mansion dates to the mid-16th century. The exquisite interior draws travelers from all over the world.

 

    6.  Charles Bridge, Prague. This cultural and physical landmark of Prague connects the Old (Lower) Town with the Upper Town, which contains the Castle District. Construction was begun on the bridge in the mid-1300's and its Gothic towers make it prominent and distinctive. Its span is lined with statues  

 

    7. Church of St Barbara, Kutna Hora. This church, begun in the late-14th century, is one of the most famous in Central Europe. Its five naves are distinctive, as is its exterior. Another unusual feature of the bridge is the presence of thirty statues lining its span, dedicated to various saints.

 

     Other sites considered:

         Krivoklat Castle

         Konopiste Chateau, southeast of Prague.

         Municipal House, Prague

         Astronomical Clock, Prague

         St Vitus Cathedral, Prague

         Zamec (Castle), Telc.

     Canada is the second largest country in the world and is blessed with some incredible natural wonders. But what about man-made structures? Well, look below to see my list of Canada's best man-made wonders. Look for a photo album which is due to follow shortly.

 

     1. CN Tower, Toronto. This symbol of the city of Toronto, until last year, was the tallest free-standing structure in the world, at over 1800 feet. It opened to the public in 1976 and is Toronto's most popular tourist attraction.

 

     2. Notre Dame Basilica, Montreal. The interior of this glorious church in the old part of the city has drawn millions of visitors to see the back-lit area around the altar with it blues and purples. The church dates to the mid-1800's and was once the largest church in North America.

 

     3. Parliament Complex, Ottawa. The buildings on Parliament Hill in Ottawa stand proud as a symbol of the emergence of Canada on the world stage. The Centre Block, a Gothic-revival structure, especially conveys this attitude with its tall Peace Tower rising majestically from the landscape.

 

     4. Fortress of Louisbourg, Nova Scotia. This open-air museum, located on the Cape Breton peninsula, portrays a snapshot of life in the French colony in the 1740's, just before the siege, in 1758, that resulted in the fort's destruction by the British in 1760. Approximately one-quarter of the original complex has been reconstructed. Local residents dress in period apparel and simulate the community of Louisbourg at work and play.

 

     5. Chateau Frontenac, Old Quebec. This elegant hotel, originally built for the Canadian Pacific Railway, sits on a promontory above the St Lawrence River in the upper section of the old part of the city and is the unchallenged symbol of the city. It is close to the famous Plains of Abraham, where British forces defeated the French General, Montcalm, in 1759, and took over the city. The hotel's patio provides access to Dufferin Terrace, a walk along the historic section of cliffs which define the upper town.

 

     6. Parliament Buildings of British Columbia, Victoria. These elegant and impressive late-nineteenth-century Neo-baroque buildings face the inner harbor of the city, making a great first impression for visitors, by boat, to the capital. A statue of Queen Victoria, for whom the city is named, stands on the front lawn.

 

     7. Cabot Trail, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. This incredible, scenic highway traverses the edges of Cape Breton Island, in the northern part of Nova Scotia. It offers coastal views during most of its 200 mile length, but also cuts through the Cape Breton Highlands to provide dramatic mountain scenery as well. It is considered one of the best scenic highways in the world and draws thousands of tourists to this fairly remote area of Canada.

 

       Other sites considered:

         Olympic Stadium, Montreal

         Annapolis Royal Gardens, Nova Scotia

         Chateau Lake Louise, Banff, Alberta

         Butchart Gardens, Victoria, British Columbia

     China is one of the most intriguing countries on the planet, because of its long and distinguished history and because, for many hundreds of years, it was not well known or accessible to tourists. It definitely possesses some of the most important man-made sites on earth, so it is really difficult to narrow its wonders down to seven. Well, here goes.

 

    1. Great Wall, most popular locations are northwest and northeast of Beijing. This incredible fortification extends for some 2,000 miles across the northern part of the country. It is certainly one of man's crowning achievements and a testament to the tenacity and persistence of the Chinese people. Much of the wall is crumbling since it has been around for over 2000 years, but there are a number of restored sections that are extremely popular with tour groups.

 

     2. Terra Cotta Warriors, Xi'an. These guardians of the tomb of Qin Shihuang, the first emperor of a unified China, date to the 3rd Century BC. More than seven thousands life-size soldiers, chariots and horses adorn the tomb, with over 1,000 painstakingly pieced together at this time. This site is considered by many to be the greatest archaeological find (1974) of the Twentieth Century. The tomb is located just outside of the ancient capital of Xi'an.

 

    3. Forbidden City, Beijing. This huge complex of buildings (980) and gardens in the center of Beijing was the royal residence since the 15th Century, until its opening to the public fairly recently. It sits at the northern end of Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world, and is still surrounded by an 8-meter high wall and a moat.

 

    4. Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, Beijing. This exquisite, detailed, wooden structure in the Temple of Heaven complex, south of Tiananmen Square, is a symbol of China, with its blue roof and unusual design, based on the calendar. It was originally built in 1420 AD, but had to be rebuilt, using similar construction methods in 1889 after a devastating fire.

 

    5. Leshan Giant Buddha, Leshan. This figure is the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world, 71 meters tall. It was completed in about 800 AD. It is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

    6. Ming Dynasty Tombs, north of Beijing. Final resting place for thirteen of the Ming Dynasty rulers are located here. Only three have been excavated to date, but further excavations are planned. Visitors normally see Chang Ling and Ding Ling's tombs, including the latter's underground chamber. Entry is along the Spirit Way, a tree and statue-lined road.

 

    7. Gardens of Suzhou, about 60 miles west of Shanghai. The city of Suzhou, besides being the center of silk manufacturing, is noted for its Chinese gardens. Here, there are numerous examples of the classic Chinese garden which blends landscape features such as rocks and water, with trees and shrubs and flowers. The overall effect is one of tranquility and peace. Some of the notable gardens in Suzhou are the Humble Administrator's Garden, the Master of the Nets Garden, and the Lion's Grove Garden

 

    Other sites considered:

        Summer Palace, Beijing

        Tiananmen Square, Beijing

        Lama Temple, Beijing

        Pudong, Shanghai

        The Bund, Shanghai

        Great Goose Pagoda, Xi'an

        Shibaozhai Pagoda, along the Yangtze River

        Mogao Caves, Dunhuang

     

Turkey is famous as a crossroad between Eastern and Western cultures. It contains a marvelous mix of structures and elements from both. It is also close enough to where human civilization started to possess a long and storied history of habitation, war, and achievement. Here are my choices for this country's seven man-made wonders.

 

     1. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul. This church, turned mosque, turned museum, was originally constructed in the 6th century AD. It is considered one of the greatest examples of Byzantine architecture in the world. Its glorious mosaics, covered up for centuries when the Ottoman Turks took over Constantinople, are now again on display for the world to see.

 

     2. Topkapi Palace, Istanbul. This grand palace and complex was the principal residence of Ottoman sultans for about 400 years. Now it is a showcase of the former glory of Constantinople and a major tourist attraction in Istanbul. It is a vast complex with many buildings and numerous courtyards. Some of the more popular parts of the palace are the Kitchens, which now display a fine collection of Oriental ceramics, the Imperial Treasury, which contains numerous gem-encrusted and golden artifacts from the Ottoman Empire and the Chamber of Sacred Relics which has several remains of the prophet, Mohammed, and is, thus, a pilgrimage site for Muslims.  

 

     3. Ephesus. The ruins of this great Greek and Roman city are a favorite stop for cruise ships in the Aegean Sea and are the site of a long and distinguished history. The Temple of Artemis, one of the original Seven Wonders of the World, was located here. Alexander the Great entered the city triumphantly after his defeat of the Persians in 334 BC. As a part of the Roman Empire, Emperor Augustus made Ephesus capital of Western Asia Minor in 27 BC. The city's Celsius Library was one of the three great libraries of antiquity. The final house of the Virgin Mary is nearby and has become a major pilgrimage site for Christians. The apostle, St Paul, spoke in the Roman Amphitheater here.

 

     4. Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia. A Fairy Chimney is a conical rock formation with a cap of harder stone. In this region of Turkey, these geological oddities have been hollowed out to make homes, churches and monasteries. Some of the most spectacular examples are found in the Goreme region of central Turkey.

 

     5. Blue Mosque, Istanbul. This mosque, more appropriately known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is the National Mosque of Turkey. It is named for the blue mosaic tiles which adorn its walls. It is one of only two mosques in Turkey with six (6) minarets.

 

     6. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul. The Grand or Covered Bazaar is one of the largest indoor markets in the world, with 58 "streets" and over 4,000 shops. It is visited by a quarter to a half-million people daily and is one of the premier tourist attractions in Istanbul. It dates to the 15th century and was expanded considerably in the 17th century by Suleiman the Magnificent.

 

     7. Dolmabahce Palace, Istanbul. This European-style palace sits on the Bosporus and contains 285 rooms and 46 halls. Fourteen tons of gold were used to line the ceilings, and the mansion contains the largest Bohemian crystal chandelier in the world. The building became the Sultan's residence when Topkapi Palace failed to satisfy the rulers because of its lack of modern conveniences.

 

     Other sites considered:

        Beylerbeyi Palace, Istanbul

        Hippodrome, Istanbul

        Amphitheater, Heirapolis

        Ruins of Pergamum

 

     

    India was a country steeped in mystery until British rule began and opened the country to the Western world. Visitors began to discover the incredible man-made sights and the natural beauty of this large nation. They also began to uncover the extraordinary history and heritage of the Indian people. Today, India remains open to the world, and more and more travelers are exploring its countryside. I have narrowed the awesome man-made attractions of this land down to the following seven:

 

     1. Taj Mahal, Agra. This mausoleum dedicated to love was built by the Mughal Shah Jahan upon the death of his favorite wife, Mumtaz. Besides being a World Heritage Site, it garnered the most votes in the recent competition for the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. The gorgeous, completely symmetrical structure is made of white marble with many details and inscriptions. It is thought by many to be the most beautiful building in the world.

 

     2. Ajanta Caves, near Aurangabad. This complex of 29 rock-hewn monastic residences (Viharas) and monument halls dates to the 2nd century BC, although some are more recent, dating to the 7th century AD. Cave facades range from simple to ornate and the interiors are all different and exceedingly interesting.  

 

     3. Ellora Caves, near Aurangabad. This complex of cave architecture, considered the epitome of this genre, contains 34 caves. Twelve are Buddhist, seventeen are Hindu, and 5 are Jain. Cave 16, the Kailasanatha Temple, is considered the finest of them all. The earliest structures at Ellora are thought to date from the 5th to the 7th century AD.

 

     4. Pink (City) Palace, Jaipur. Hawa Mahal, known also as the Palace of the Winds, is the most imposing building in what is known as the City Palace of Jaipur. Built of pink sandstone, like the rest of the city, it is one of the most popular attractions in this capital of Rajastan. Other important tourist sites in Jaipur include Jantar Mantar, an observatory, and the Amber Fort (see below), just outside the city.

 

     5. Golden Temple, Amritsar. This Sikh temple's real name is Harmandir Sahib and it is the most holy Sikh shrine in the world. The site is actually a complex of buildings surrounded by a lake. It was originally built in 1604, but the gold was added in the early 1800's. Non-Muslims may enter the temple as long as they are dressed appropriately.

 

     6. Red Fort, Old Delhi. This stunning Mughal palace was built in 1639 by Shah Jahan, the builder of the Taj Mahal (see above), when he moved his capital from Agra. The fort is surrounded by a 1.5 mile wall, which is as high as 60 feet, on the sides facing the city. Its architectural design is meant to be an imitation of paradise as described in the Koran. 

 

     7. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur. One of the largest forts in India, this complex is located high on a hill above the city of Jodhpur and is surrounded by thick walls. Inside the complex are several palatial buildings. Noteworthy are the Chamunda Mataji Temple, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Palace of Flowers.

 

        Other sights considered:

            Temples of Khajuraho

            Banks of the Ganges, Varanasi

            Lake Palace, Udiapur

            Sun Temple of Konark, near Puri

            Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

            Amber Fort, Jaipur

            Fatepur Sikri, near Agra

     Greece, the cradle of Western Civilization and beginning of Democracy as a political system, has a wealth of structures which are extremely significant in world history and architecture. Although many of these sites are now in ruins, since Greece has had its share of conflict and bad management over the years, there is enough remaining to appreciate the splendor of this pivotal country. Below is my list of Greece's Seven Man-Made Wonders.

 

     1. Acropolis & Parthenon, Athens. Named the top European Cultural Heritage Monument in March of 2007, The Acropolis has long been seen as a symbol of the Greek civilization which began Western Civilization as we know it. The buildings whose ruins grace this promontory and center of Athens were constructed in the 5th century BC. Although there has been much damage to the structures since that time, their former glory can still be appreciated.

 

     2. The Oracle at Delphi, Delphi. Considered by the Greeks the center of the Universe, Delphi housed the world-renowned oracle which was consulted on a regular basis by the leaders of the various Greek city-states. Most of them maintained treasuries on the grounds of the oracle to house their offerings. The actual "oracle" was beneath the Temple of Apollo, to whom the area was consecrated. Also nearby, further up the slopes of Mount Parnassus was an Amphitheater and an arena for the performance of the Pythian Games, forerunners of the Olympics, during which athletes from all over Greece competed for honor and glory.

 

     3. Meteora Monasteries, near Kalambaka. These monasteries, perched high on pinnacles of rock, were probably built in the 14th century as refuges from the expanding Turkish occupation going on at that time. Orginally there were 20 monasteries, although only six remain. They were extremely inaccessible, but now can be visited by tourists. They are all considered World Heritage Sites.

 

     4. Knossos Palace, Crete. This complex is thought to be the center of the Minoan civilization until its destruction in the 15th century BC, presumably by a tidal wave or other aftermath from the eruption of an immense volcano on the island of Santorini, to the north. Discovered in the late 19th century and excavated in the early 20th century by Sir Arthur Evans, it has become a major tourist destination and common stop on the itinerary of cruise ships. The site is unusual in that several sections have been restored to what they are thought to have looked like when the site was occupied.

 

     5. Monastery of St John the Theologian & the Cave of the Apocalypse, Patmos. The monastery, high on a hill of this island which is near the Turkish coast, is a formidable fortress as well as a religious site. Just below the monastery is the cave where St John is said to have received visions which lead to the description of the Apocalypse and the Book of Revelation.

 

     6. Palace of the Grand Master, Rhodes. This major structure in the city of Rhodes was built in the 14th century by the Knights of Rhodes and was used a fortress during the Ottoman invasion and takeover of the island. The location of the palace is at the end of a well-preserved cobblestone street, known as the Avenue of the Knights, lined by residences for the knights.

 

     7. Greek Amphitheater, Epidaurus. This premier example of the classic Greek amphitheater is well-known for its excellent acoustics. Built in the 4th century BC, it holds 15,000 spectators, it is still used for productions today.

 

        Other sites considered:

           Ruins of Delos

           Ruins of Olympia

           Corfu Palace

           Agia Sophia Church, Thessaloniki

           Island Fortress, Nauplion

           Corinth Canal

 

     Portugal is a small country in size, but rich in history and tradition. During the 14 and 1500's, Portugal was a major force in exploration and one of the most powerful countries in the world. Notables such as Ferdinand Magellan and Vasco de Gama journeyed all over the known world. Thus, it is no wonder that there are numerous sights in the country which can be considered "wonders." Here are my choices for the best seven.

 

     1. Pena National Palace, Sintra. This extravaganza is, like Neuschwanstein in Germany, a combination of several artistic styles. The blend turns out to be especially pleasing. It served as a summer palace for Portuguese rulers and, although it is still used occasionally for state functions, it is primarily a tourist attraction. 

 

     2. Sintra National Palace, Sintra. This white mansion dates to the 15th century and was a royal residence for centuries. Notable rooms include the Arab Room, the Swann's Room and the Pegas' (magpie's) Room.

 

     3. Padrao dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries), Belem parish, Lisbon. This concrete edifice commemorates Portugal's contribution to world exploration. It is designed as the prow of a ship with a number of statues representing famous Portuguese pioneers, including Henry the Navigator (leading), Vasco de Gama, Ferdinand Magellan, and others.

 

     4. Castle of Saint George, Lisbon. This crenulated fortress dominates the highest hill in the capital city of Lisbon. Fortifications have been present here since the 2nd century AD, and retaking this castle from the Moors was the goal of one of the Crusades. Castle grounds also held a royal palace which is now in ruins.  

 

     5. Belem Tower, Belem parish, Lisbon. This fortification, built to commemorate Vasco de Gama's expedition, has become the symbol of the city, and, together with the nearby Jeronimos Monastery, has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It dates to the early 1500's and marks the entrance into Lisbon's harbor.

 

     6. Church of Saint Francis, Porto. This Gothic structure which was begun in 1383 has a marvelous Baroque interior that distinguishes it as one of Portugal most important Medieval sites and has been recognized as a World Heritage Site.

 

     7. Castle of the Moors, Sintra. Its prominent location at the top of a hill overlooking Sintra, and its somewhat intact walls which make it seem impenetrable, make this ruin a major tourist attraction. The views of the Pena Palace (see #1 above) and the Sintra National Palace (see #2 above) from here are tremendous.  

 

    Other sites considered:

       Queluz Palace