Seven Wonders of the World - Colossus of Rhodes
When Was the Colossus of Rhodes Built?
Construction started around 304 BC.
Where is the Colossus of Rhodes Located?
At the entrance to the harbor of the island of Rhodes in Greece.
What is the History of the Colossus of Rhodes?
After winning a long war against the Antigonids of Macedonia, the Rhodians celebrated their victory by building an enormous statue of their patron sun god, Helios. Apparently, construction of the Colossus (a word that means a huge statue) took 12 years to complete. The Colossus only stood for 56 years, which isn't long for something considered one of the seven wonders of the world. Around 226 BC, a violent earthquake hit Rhodes and collapsed the statue at the knees. The Rhodians were afraid of a curse so they didn't dare replace it. It lay in pieces for many centuries before Arab pirates took the bronze pieces and sold them.
What Does the Colossus of Rhodes Look Like?
The base of the statue was made of white marble, which is where the feet and ankles were first fixed. Bronze plates were put over an iron framework (the Statue of Liberty is copper over a steel frame.) When the Colossus was finished, it stood around 33 meters (110 feet) high. Although none of the statue still exists, this wonder of the world inspired many artists, including Auguste Bartholdi who made the Statue of Liberty.
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