It has been called magnificent, splendid, awe-inspiring and amazing. As of April 30, the Baha'i House of Worship for the North American Continent can add to its list of accolades being named one of the "Seven Wonders of Illinois."

Launched in February, the Seven Wonders of Illinois program invited consumers to nominate their favorite Illinois attractions on the bureau's website. From 3,700 nominations, 84 destinations were chosen to compete-12 from each of Illinois' seven regions. During March, visitors to the site were invited to vote from the list. Each week the field was narrowed down, based on votes, until the final seven remained.

Baha'i House of Worship of the Northern American Continent

When the votes were tallied, the Baha'i House of Worship won in the Chicagoland division. The Baha'i House of Worship, "one of only seven Baha'i temples in the world...is an architectural marvel featuring a nine-sided dome surrounded by beautiful fountains and gardens," says the Enjoy Illinois Seven Wonders website. 

Pamela Mondschein, director of the Baha'i House of Worship, says she's thrilled that the temple has won the distinction because "it was built to provide a place of sanctuary for everyone, no matter their religion, culture or nationality. And being named one of the Seven Wonders of Illinois will encourage even more people to come and enjoy the serene pleasures."

The other Seven Wonders of Illinois winners are Wrigley Field (Chicago); Starved Rock State Park, Utica (Northern); Allerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello (Central); Black Hawk State Historic Site, Rock Island (Western); Rend Lake, Benton (Southern); and Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway, Alton (Southwest).