wonders set in stone
The general consensus is that ancient Greek historians compiled the original list of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, and of that list the only surviving man-made wonders are the Pyramids of Egypt.
The Great Pyramids narrowly missed making the New 7 Wonders list, but now standing tall amongst the top 7 is Petra’s 42-metre-high Hellenistic temple facade. These wonders had been on the must-see list of Express reader Rachael Wellington for too long, so finally the opportunity arose to explore them firsthand…
“On a recent trip to the Middle East, I was able to visit to visit both the Pyramids and Sphinx in Egypt and the remarkable Palace Tombs of Petra in Jordan – wonders of the world that had been on my to-do list for way too long!
On Intrepid’s Egypt Adventure we spent our second day visiting the Pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza. It was an experience I have trouble putting into words. The whole time I walked around thinking I’ve seen so many pictures of these, I cannot believe I’m actually here! They are massive and breathtaking and completely awe-inspiring. It was hot, even in November, and the coolest place was in the shade of the Pyramid. There were hawkers and men selling camel rides, people from around the globe marvelling at the amazing constructions and I was amongst it all, simply taking it in and enjoying the moment. The whole experience was just incredible!
A week later on my Pyramids to Petra trip, I found myself wandering through the narrow Siq leading to the Treasury at Petra. Making my way through the dark red chasm was like a dream and I admit to enjoying a little Indiana Jones moment. The walls are rippled and flowing like a river of rose-coloured rock and lead you directly out to this incredible and fascinating site! The Treasury, carved right into the cliff, is stunning and unlike anything I had seen before. The experience was well worth the wait, but having thoroughly enjoyed my Middle East adventure I’m already planning which destinations to cross off my to-do list next!”
Tour the Middle East with Intrepid on trips like these great small group adventures:
Pyramids to Petra – 18 days Cairo to Amman
Middle East Basix
