Colossus at Rodos - One of the seven wonders

rodos.org.uk

The Colossus of Rodos is known by the rule of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, which was shaped the 17th century BC. The giant statue, dedicated to God Sun, the protector of Rodos island, was designed by the sculptor Charis from Lindos, and it took 12 years for the developpement of the project. Although Colossus was considered from the beginning as a masterpiece of art, there is no precise information for its form and position. Its height was estimated between 27-31 meters,and the prevailing image is that it reflected God Sun, with rays around his head holding a torch in his hand and stood at the entrance of the port, while the ships passed beneath his feet.

However, the most likely position is considered the Sun Temple in the town of Rodos. The statue collapsed 66 years later by a powerful earthquake in 226 BC, and according to historical sources, it was cut on knees and fell to the ground, from where Rhodians should not transfer it according to the oracle. It remained there until 653 AD when a group of Arabs pirates moved it.