Colossus, a lost wonder of the ancient world could be rebuilt in Rhodes, Greece

Its outside would be made of bronze-colored solar panels making it completely self-sufficient

Its outside would be made of bronze-colored solar panels making it completely self-sufficient

In an attempt to alleviate the ongoing economic crisis in Greece, a group of ambitious engineers have envisioned making Rhodes a world-wide attraction, highlighting the island’s history and attracting millions of visitors every year. So, are proposing the construction of a contemporary building, a modern Colossus, the statue of the Greek god Helios.

As the original 32m-tall statue was destroyed by earthquake in 226 BCE, the new one –which is designed to be 122 m tall- would be earthquake-proof, consisting of two different structures which do not come in contact with each other. The inside would house a cultural center, a library and a lighthouse visible for 56 km! This new structure would also be fully sustainable and self-sufficient, as bronze-colored solar panels would completely cover its exterior. The Greek god of Helios would be powered by the sun… Quite suitable for the Greek god of Helios indeed!

The study was based on economists’ advice, who claim that this investment could prolong the tourist season, helping the island’s economy and creating an income of more than 30 million € per year. The project’s cost is estimated at 250-270 million €, and funding is expected to come from private institutions in Greece and abroad, via a crowd-funding campaign and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, which can sponsor a project by 50% to 75%, especially when it is of cultural interest.

A museum inside the statue would display ancient Greek treasures currently stored away.

A museum and library are among the interior plans for the statue.

A view of the statue’s lighthouse, which would be seen from 56 km away

A solar panel skin will make the structure entirely self-sustaining.

A revolving restaurant underneath the lighthouse