Great Wall may become one of New 7 Wonders

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-29-2007 11:30

This undated photo shows a beautiful scene of China's Great Wall. [File Photo: Xinhua]

The stage has been set to hold a global vote to determine the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Great Wall has long been a famous symbol of China. And now, it's in the running for this prestigious, worldwide honor. Public voting is now open for an array of ancient historic sites.

The Great Wall is considered by many as a symbol of China's ancient civilization and its peoples' ingenuity.

And now, this 2,600-year-old fortification is in the running to become one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Many Chinese are expressing their confidence ahead of the competition. That's because, they say greatness defines itself.

Xie Jiuzhong, spokesperson Badaling tourist district, said, "Last year I went to Italy and Greece and toured around the sites there. But it only impressed upon me why the Chinese are so proud of the Great Wall. No other cultural heritage sites can compare with the Great Wall in terms of length, magnitude and the man-power required to build it."

The Great Wall's magnificent features are attracting tourists from across the world. So far, the Badaling section alone has attracted over 130 million tourists. (Singing) For these visitors, this is the best way to express their excitement.

Erin Manning, choir member, said, "Well, it's definitely true but it just, the words and everything and the pictures don't capture it all, it's just amazing, it's really beautiful, just the landscape and everything."

But the Great Wall of China is facing fierce competition from the other 20 UNESCO listed nominations. Among them the Eiffel Tower of France, the pyramids of Egypt, the Colosseum in Rome and the Taj Mahal in India.

Public voting is now underway online at www.new7wonders.com . The final results will be announced during a ceremony in Lisbon on July 7th this year.

Editor:Du Xiaodan