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The Colosseum Becomes a Wonder | A Conversation with Barry Strauss & Alison Futrell

June 30, 2025·33 min·3 clips

Hilary Swank and Ben Kingsley revealed the new Seven Wonders—but why did only one ancient wonder survive to 2007?

This episode explores the 2007 global vote to name the New Seven Wonders of the World, hosted by Sally Helm. The narrative centers on the lavish announcement ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal. Bernard Weber, a Swiss filmmaker and adventurer, initiated the worldwide poll. The televised event at Benfica Stadium featured aerial dancers, a giant globe, and performances by tenor José Carreras and Jennifer Lopez. A large replica laptop opened on the stadium floor as breakdancers performed. Actors Hilary Swank and Ben Kingsley hosted the segment announcing the winners. The original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, had largely vanished by the 21st century. Only the Pyramids of Giza remained intact, prompting Weber's campaign for a new list. Over 100 million votes were cast globally via telephone and online. The Colosseum in Rome was among the monuments selected as a New Wonder. The ceremony's elaborate choreography, with dancers in metallic bodysuits, created a distinctly modern spectacle. The campaign argued that human-made marvels from all eras deserved global recognition. Weber positioned the vote as a democratic, populist alternative to traditional UNESCO designations. The results were announced in random order, heightening suspense for viewers. The episode contrasts ancient history with a 2007 media event blending technology and performance. The original wonders list was compiled by Greek historians, not through a public vote. The tone is narrative and descriptive, recreating the sensory experience of the stadium show. The style is educational, connecting a contemporary event to broader historical themes. Listeners interested in modern cultural phenomena and the intersection of history and popular media will enjoy this episode. Those seeking deep analysis of the ancient wonders themselves might find the focus elsewhere.

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