These are the initial centuries following the death of Jesus Christ. During much of this time, the Roman Empire dominated Europe and the Middle East. Nothing was known of the Americas, while Chinese society flourished, albeit in isolation.
1. Colosseum, Rome, Italy (80) — This symbol of the magnificence of Rome still delights tourists despite the fact that almost all of its marble (it was gleaming and white) was confiscated and used for other projects.
2. Roman Aqueduct, Segovia, Spain (100) — This amazing structure stills works after almost 2,000 years.
3. Hadrian’s Wall, Northumbria, England (122) — This 75-mile long wall was built to separate Roman territory from the land of the barbarians to the north. It was the northernmost limit of the Roman Empire and proved difficult to defend.
4. Pantheon, Rome, Italy (126) — Probably the best-preserved of the Roman buildings, this temple to all religions is still used for services. Its oculum allows light to bathe the floor of the lovely building.
5. Arch of Constantine, Rome Italy (312) — This is the best-preserved of the three triumphal arches which grace the Roman Forum, one of the city’s major tourist attractions.
6. Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem, Israel (330) — This very special church, shared by several different religions, was built on the site of Christ’s crucifixion. It is an important pilgrimage site for Christians.
7. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey (360) — This church-turned-mosque-turned museum is one of the most popular tourist sites in Istanbul. Caretakers have recently uncovered several of the original mosaics which were covered in accordance with Islamic regulations.