One of the wonders of the ancient world that stood an impressive 32 meters high in Rhodes harbour was the Colossus of Rhodes. This massive statue was dedicated to the sun god Helios and was built to commemorate the successful defense of the city against a siege in 305 BC.

The Colossus of Rhodes was constructed by the sculptor Chares of Lindos and took 12 years to complete. It was made of bronze and iron, with a hollow interior that allowed visitors to climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the harbor and surrounding city.

Unfortunately, the Colossus of Rhodes stood for only 56 years before it was toppled by an earthquake in 226 BC. The statue lay in ruins for centuries, with various attempts made to rebuild it but ultimately unsuccessful.

Despite its short lifespan, the Colossus of Rhodes remains a symbol of ancient engineering and artistic skill. Its massive size and intricate design continue to capture the imagination of historians and archeologists alike.

If you are interested in learning more about the Colossus of Rhodes and its fascinating history, you can visit the official UNESCO website for more information: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/151. Additionally, you can explore the National Geographic website for stunning images and interactive features about this ancient wonder: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/colossus-rhodes-wonder-world.

Overall, the Colossus of Rhodes is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the ancient Greeks. Despite its eventual destruction, the memory of this magnificent statue continues to inspire awe and wonder in all who learn about its history.

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