Colossus of Rhodes

In stark contrast to the enduring existence of the pyramids, the Colossus of Rhodes was the shortest-lived of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It took 12 years to complete in 282 B.C., but only stood for 56 years before it was toppled at the knees by an earthquake. This towering statue, made of stone and iron with a bronze exterior, represented Helios, the sun god and patron deity of the island nation. Located on the island of Rhodes in the Mediterranean Sea and facing the Mandraki harbor, illustrations show the entrance to Mandraki harbor between its feet, though many people no longer believe this. The statue was approximately 110 feet (about 33 meters) tall.