Ten Ancient Monuments That Define Human Civilization's Architectural Legacy

The Great Pyramid of Giza, built for Pharaoh Khufu around 2550 BC, is the only remaining Wonder from the Ancient World. In 1911, Hiram Bingham rediscovered Machu Picchu, which dates back to about 1420 under Emperor Pachacuti. Stonehenge's Altar Stone, originating from Scotland, hints at teamwork in its construction around 2500 BC. Petra, established as the Nabatean capital by the 5th century BC, is home to the stunning Al-Khazneh Treasury. The Colosseum, built in Rome between 72 and 80 AD, could hold up to 80,000 people. The Great Wall of China started during the Spring and Autumn Period and was later unified by Emperor Qin Shi Huang. Angkor Wat was built in the early 12th century under King Suryavarman II, while Easter Island's iconic moai statues were created between 1250 and 1500 AD. Tikal flourished during the Classic Period, with Temple I as the resting place for Jasaw Chan K'awiil I.