The Seven Most Endangered Wonders Of The World...

Newsweek April 3, 2006 at 12:31 AM
READ MORE: Saddam Hussein, Iraq

Dating back to the 14th century B.C., the Luxor temple complex on the west bank of the Nile River--which includes the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, more than 40 temples and the tombs of thousands of nobles--is threatened not only by the ravages of tourism and theft, but by the Nile itself. The construction of the Aswan Dam 40 years ago has caused salt to build up in the newly fertile soil around the temples, eroding their ancient foundations and filling many tombs with water. The World Monuments Fund is currently devising a management plan for the site, and hopes to give the complex its biggest renovation since Alexander the Great.

Babylon, Iraq The largest ancient settlement in Mesopotamia was built by King Nebuchadnezzar, of 'hanging gardens' fame. Since the ruins were uncovered at the turn of the 20th century,artifacts have been removed, damaged and contaminated. Saddam Hussein installed a giant self-portrait there and U. S. troops built trenches and crushed ancient roads. A recent British Museum report warns that Iraq lacks the resources to restore the site and urges an international effort.

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