The Colossus of Rhodes: A Monument to Victory and a Wonder of the Ancient World
Standing majestically at the entrance to Mandraki Harbor on the Greek island of Rhodes, the Colossus of Rhodes was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Towering at an impressive 157 feet tall, this massive statue was built in 292 BCE by the Greek sculptor Chares. It was created to honor the island’s patron god, Helios, in celebration of Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. The construction of the Colossus involved the forging and reforging of iron and brass to form the statue’s outer shell, while stone filled the interior. As pieces of the statue were fitted together, earthen ramps were built up to aid in the construction process.
For 54 years, the Colossus stood as a symbol of Rhodian pride and craftsmanship until a devastating earthquake in 226 BCE caused the statue to snap at its knees, bringing it crashing to the ground. Though it no longer stands, the Colossus remains a legendary figure of history, with countless artistic depictions attempting to capture its grandeur. Its exact location at Mandraki Harbor continues to be a subject of fascination and mystery for historians and archaeologists alike, ensuring the legacy of the Colossus endures as one of the most awe-inspiring wonders of the ancient world.
