Medieval Wonders

In the past, kings got the state architects and builders to design and construct some of the most wonderful buildings. However, only some of them could withstand the ravages of time. Down the years, these wonderful structures found their place in history

THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA

The Great Wall of China is only a few metres wide.

Though the construction of 'The Great Wall of China' was initiated by Emperor Shi Huangdi in about 221 BBC, it was Qin dynasty (221-206 BBC) that hastened the work towards its completion. The work lasted for centuries, and each successive dynasty added to the height, length, and breadth of the wall. Today, with a length of over 7000 km, it is one of the longest structures ever built in the world.

THE CATACOMBS OF KOM EL SHOQAFA, ALEXANDRIA, EGYPT

Built a burial grounds, there were a number of catacombs Egypt. However, these lied undiscovered for centuries. The catacomb of Kom el Shoqafa hd three levels with a spiral staircase. It also had a seperate aea for hosting a feast in the memory of the dead. Many beautiful sculptures adorned the walls of this catacomb.

 




THE PARTHENON, ATHENS, GREECE

Like most Greek temples,
the Parthenon was used as a treasury.

This amazing temple, perched on Acropolis hill, was built between 447 BC to 432 BC. It was dedicated to the city's patron-goddess, Athena Parthenos. There are eight columns at each end and 17 columns along each side. Inside the temple, there are two chambers - one fr the statue of the goddess and the other for the temple treasury.

THE STONEHENGE, BRITAIN

The Stonehenge complex was built almost
over a period of 2,000 years.

The Stonehenge, is approximately 5000 years old! However, what we see today are the ruins of the original monument. One wonders how such big pieces of stone were carried to this place without the help of machines! The purpose of these stone pillars and ditches is not clear, though,historians claim that it could have been used as an almanac or a calendar.

FUN FACTS! The largest stones at stonehenge are nearly 9m high and weigh over 45 tonnes