MADRID— The World Travel & Tourism Council has launched a global campaign inviting people to nominate the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World, aiming to recognize modern landmarks that have reshaped tourism, strengthened local economies and transformed destinations around the globe.
Announced on Wednesday, the yearlong initiative seeks to identify iconic buildings, attractions and cultural sites created since 1801 that have made a lasting contribution to travel, economic development and community growth.
Unlike the traditional Seven Wonders lists, which celebrate ancient achievements, the new campaign focuses on the modern era and highlights destinations that continue to influence how people travel today.
Among the examples cited by WTTC are Eiffel Tower, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and the Grand Egyptian Museum. The organization said such landmarks have done more than attract millions of visitors — they have also generated investment, created jobs and helped redefine the global identity of their cities and countries.
WTTC said the initiative comes at a time when governments are increasingly looking to tourism as a driver of sustainable economic growth. By spotlighting successful tourism infrastructure and cultural investments, the campaign aims to demonstrate how public and private sector collaboration can create attractions that deliver long-term economic and social benefits.
The selection process will consider more than architectural beauty or historical importance. Nominees will also be evaluated on their contribution to tourism, economic impact, community value, destination development, and their ability to inspire future investment.
“We are inviting people everywhere to help recognize the landmarks that have defined the modern age and will continue to inspire new ways of experiencing the world,” said Gloria Guevara.
“The most influential tourism assets do far more than attract visitors,” Guevara said. “They create jobs, stimulate investment, support local businesses, strengthen communities, and enhance the global profile of destinations.”
The campaign will unfold over four stages during the next year. Public nominations opened on July 7, 2026, with WTTC scheduled to announce a list of 70 nominees on Jan. 7, 2027, when public voting will begin. The field will then be narrowed to 30 finalists on April 7, 2027, before the final 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World are revealed on July 7, 2027.
WTTC said the campaign is also intended to showcase emerging landmarks alongside globally recognized attractions, allowing newer destinations to gain international attention.
By encouraging public participation, the organization hopes the initiative will promote greater appreciation for the role tourism plays in supporting local communities while inspiring future investment in attractions that can shape the next generation of global travel.
