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    Selects: How the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World Work, Part I

    enJune 22, 2024

    Podcast Summary

    • Seven Wonders of the Ancient WorldThe Seven Wonders of the Ancient World were popular tourist attractions for ancient Greeks, encouraging exploration and discovery of these marvels.

      The ancient world had its own version of a travel bucket list, known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These wonders, which included the Great Pyramid of Giza, Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, Statue of Zeus at Olympia, Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, Colossus of Rhodes, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria, were popular tourist attractions for ancient Greeks who had the means and leisure to travel. The list, which dates back to ancient Greece, was created to encourage people to explore and see these marvels. The wonders were added to or subtracted from over time, but the original list is credited to Deodorus Siculus. While some of these wonders may be familiar, others, like the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, may be new discoveries for some. Regardless, this list provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world and the wonders that captivated people thousands of years ago.

    • Great Pyramid of GizaThe Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest of the 80 pyramids in Egypt, is a testament to ancient civilization's ingenuity and ambition, despite modern establishments nearby.

      While many ancient wonders have faded into history, the Great Pyramid of Giza remains a marvel. Despite its popularity, the presence of modern establishments like Pizza Hut and KFC near the pyramids can be disheartening for some visitors. The Great Pyramid, specifically the Pyramid of Khufu, is the largest of the 80 pyramids in Egypt and has stood as the tallest man-made structure for over 3,000 years. Its massive size, with each side at the base being about 755 feet long, is a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of ancient civilizations. Despite theories suggesting it may have been unfinished, the Great Pyramid's enduring presence continues to captivate and inspire awe.

    • Ancient Engineering, PyramidsThe Great Pyramid of Giza, built around 2589-2566 BC, is a marvel of ancient engineering with over 2 million precisely cut and fitted limestone and granite blocks, intentional size, height, and slope, and an internal structure of corridors, shafts, and rooms.

      The Great Pyramid of Giza, despite appearing as just a large pile of stones, is a marvel of ancient engineering. Built during the reign of King Khufu around 2589-2566 BC, it consists of over two million limestone and granite blocks, each precisely cut and fitted together with less than a 50th of an inch gap. The pyramid's impressive size, height, and slope are all intentional, and its internal structure includes corridors, shafts, and rooms, requiring careful planning to prevent collapse. Originally, the pyramid was encased in limestone, but an earthquake in the 14th century caused damage and led to the removal of the casing to rebuild Cairo. Despite theories of it being unfinished or looted, the lack of inscriptions and unfinished aspects may be due to the ongoing discovery of hidden rooms and passages. The pyramid's longevity is a testament to its engineering prowess and the impact of natural disasters on ancient structures.

    • Historical landmarks and events controversiesHistorical landmarks and events are often subject to controversies and debates, requiring us to consider multiple perspectives before making judgments.

      Throughout history, there have been debates and controversies surrounding various landmarks and events, from the authenticity of ancient structures like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon to modern-day scandals involving public figures. Some people may advise against visiting certain places based on their personal experiences or opinions, but it's essential to consider multiple perspectives before making a decision. Additionally, historical trials have raised important questions about justice and the legal system, shaping our understanding of the world we live in. So, whether it's exploring ancient wonders or delving into legal battles of the past, remember that there's always more to the story than meets the eye.

    • Hanging Gardens locationThe existence and location of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, a legendary ancient wonder, are uncertain as there is no concrete evidence to support their presence in Babylon and theories suggest they may have been in Nineveh instead

      The existence of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a topic of ongoing debate among historians. Despite their legendary status, there is no concrete evidence that these gardens were actually located in Babylon, as they are not mentioned in any ancient records from the region. Some theories suggest that they may have been located in Nineveh instead, and recent discoveries of ancient irrigation systems in that area have fueled this hypothesis. However, without definitive proof, the true location and historical accuracy of the Hanging Gardens remain a mystery.

    • Ancient TrialsAncient trials, like the trial of Artemis at Ephesus, showcased the complexity and nuance of the legal system and continue to challenge our perspectives and shape our society.

      Throughout history, important trials have raised questions and challenged our understanding of justice and the world around us. For instance, the trial of Charles Gato after President James Garfield's assassination in 1881, and the ancient trial of Artemis at Ephesus, showcased the complexity and nuance of the legal system. The History on Trial podcast explores these trials and their impact on our present. Ephesus, an ancient city known for its wealth, law, and magic cults, was home to the massive Temple of Artemis. The temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess of fertility and the hunt, was a fusion of two deities: Artemis and Sibyl. The temple housed a statue of Artemis, adorned with a row of bulbs, which could be interpreted as breasts or bull testicles. These trials, like Ephesus's, continue to challenge our perspectives and shape our society. Listen to History on Trial on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

    • Temple of Artemis at EphesusThe massive Temple of Artemis at Ephesus, known for its bull testicles decoration, was a major ancient wonder and tourist attraction that inspired awe and wonder for centuries despite multiple destructions and rebuildings.

      The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus was an ancient wonder and tourist attraction, famous for its massive size and unique feature of having bull testicles hanging around the statue of the goddess. The temple, located in Ephesus, was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and attracted visitors from far and wide. Its destruction and rebuilding multiple times throughout history, including by a pyromaniac named Herod Stratus and later by the Goths, did not deter people from continuing to visit and marvel at the temple. Despite its eventual destruction, the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus left a lasting impact on history and the art world.

    • History trialsListening to the History on Trial podcast provides insights into intriguing American legal battles, uncovers the truth behind headlines, and reveals the impact on society

      History, particularly the stories of significant trials, provides valuable insights into our past and shapes our present. Through the History on Trial podcast, listeners can delve into intriguing cases from American history, uncovering the truth behind the headlines and understanding the impact of these legal battles on our society. From the Monkey Trial to the OJ Simpson case and beyond, these stories continue to resonate and inspire reflection. Join Mira Hayward as she explores these fascinating tales on the History on Trial podcast, available now on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, and other popular podcast platforms. Don't miss this opportunity to broaden your historical knowledge and gain a deeper appreciation for the legal system's role in shaping our world.

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