The world is full ofinteresting thingswhich most people have never seen. Fortunately, between ready access to cameras and the internet, we can now view and read about all sorts of parts of our planet’s history, from intriguing natural formations to some of the things ancient humans were putting together.
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“These are the one’s who discovered AmericaAnd should be taught in our history booksNot the false storyline they give about Columbus discovery America.…”
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While attempting to photograph the iconic El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a photographer captured something truly extraordinary—the Andromeda Galaxy!Known as the M31 Galaxy, Andromeda is the closest spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way, located about 2.5 million light-years away. It contains over a trillion stars, and is one of the few galaxies visible to the naked eye from Earth. Its light, traveling across millions of years, reaches us as a faint, smudgy shape in the night sky, which the photographer accidentally framed perfectly while focusing on El Capitan.El Capitan, the majestic granite monolith that rises over 3,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, is a favorite subject for many photographers. But in this case, the photographer inadvertently captured the Andromeda Galaxy, creating a stunning blend of earthly and cosmic beauty in one shot.
A stunning rose quartz incense burner from the Qing Dynasty. It hails from the Qianlong Reign, which was between 1736 and 1796 CE. Right now, you can see it at the Nanjing Museum in China. It really highlights the amazing craftsmanship and cultural flair of that time period.
There is an unfortunate issue that we often get a very skewed perspective ofworld historybecause our records are only of things that survived. Remember, for everystone pyramid, there are thousands of dwellings and buildings that rotted away or fell apart. After all, as anyone who has a home knows, most materials do sustain some wear and tear over time.
For example, many researchers now use satellite data to “access” parts of the planet it might be hard to travel to. This is particularly true for the various nations that used to exist in Latin America, who often built their cities in remote areas, which are now covered injungles. Instead of wasting months trekking through the wilderness,archeologistscan now pinpoint the exact locations from a computer.
Derinkuyu, located in Turkey, is an impressive underground city that stands as the largest among more than 200 ancient subterranean cities. Spanning nearly 172 square miles, it is designed to house approximately 60,000 residents across its 18 levels. This remarkable achievement in engineering has its origins dating back 3,000 years.
Nestled in Russia’s Perm region, the Berezniki Cave stands as a stunning testament to nature’s extraordinary artistry, sculpted over millions of years. Within its depths, the enchanting rainbow walls burst forth in vibrant hues, composed of sylvinite—a potassium-rich mineral that emerged when ancient oceans dried, leaving behind a masterpiece of color. These striking layers of red, orange, and blue have been meticulously crafted under immense geological pressure, resulting in a mesmerizing underground landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Explore this psychedelic grotto and witness the breathtaking interplay of nature’s palette at work.
This intricately carved Viking axe head, which dates back to 994 CE, was discovered in Denmark. Unearthed in 1956 near the village of Mammen, this remarkable 1,030-year-old artifact is currently housed in the National Museum of Denmark. The elaborate designs of the axe head exemplify the exceptional craftsmanship and artistry characteristic of the Viking Age, making it a significant piece of historical heritage.
Column of Marcus Aurelius (180 AD), Rome
Erected in the year 155 AD, the theater of Aspendos emerges as one of the most impeccably preserved relics of ancient theatrical grandeur. Nestled within the historic Greco-Roman city in Turkey’s Antalya province, this extraordinary structure is a testament to the ingenuity and finesse of ancient architectural prowess, captivating the imagination of all who behold its timeless beauty.
Check out this amazing hand-colored photo from 1865 that shows a Jewish girl from Damascus, Syria, decked out in her traditional clothes. The colors pop and the patterns are so detailed, really showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Jewish community back then.
The rediscovered tunnels beneath Puebla, Mexico, are an incredible historical find, dating back up to 500 years. This 10-kilometer network, tall enough for horseback riders, was uncovered in 2015 after being considered a myth for centuries. Stretching from Puebla’s historic center to Loreto castle, where the Cinco de Mayo battle took place, the tunnels may have served strategic roles during the Mexican War of Independence and the Puebla War against France. Artifacts like toys, kitchen items, and weapons from the 1800s have been found preserved in the mud.
In 2007, an astonishing revelation shook the archaeological community near Seville, Spain. Picture this: a tomb hiding a jaw-dropping 5,000-year-old dagger made from rock crystal, stretching about 8.7 inches of pure craftsmanship, complete with an opulent ivory hilt and sheath. This wasn’t just any run-of-the-mill burial; it likely belonged to the elite of the Copper Age, housing 25 individuals and an impressive array of grave goods. Think amber beads, intricate ivory artifacts, and even remnants of gold blades. These treasures scream of a society steeped in complex hierarchies and rich ceremonial customs, with that striking crystal dagger serving as a bold testament to their cultural brilliance.
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Thailand, Hin Sam Wan, or Three Whale Rock, is a captivating geological wonder that dates back an impressive 75 million years. From an aerial view, the rocks take on the charming appearance of a family of whales gracefully surfacing from the depths, making for a truly breathtaking spectacle. It’s a remarkable showcase of nature’s artistry, meticulously sculpted over eons, that leaves visitors in awe of its beauty.
Journey back to the early fifth century, where the Ethiopian Bible emerges as the oldest and most complete version in existence, meticulously crafted on goat skin.This extraordinary relic not only holds the title of the first illustrated Christian Bible but also serves as a window into the intricate tapestry of early Christian traditions and beliefs.
The Great Zimbabwe Walls, an awe-inspiring feat of ancient engineering, rise majestically from the earth, crafted from granite blocks that were expertly assembled without the use of mortar. These remarkable structures, dating back to the 11th century, showcase a meticulous craftsmanship that includes a unique inward slope, transitioning from rugged, raw blocks into elegantly polished courses. This ingenious technique not only reflects the builders’ mastery but also guarantees the walls' stability and durability throughout the ages.
An Ancient tree discovered in New Zealand contains a 42,000-year-old record of a reversal of Earth’s magnetic field.
Buried Paris.This is a photograph from 1973, during the construction of Les Halles in Paris. The structure wrapped above the metal scaffolding on the right is the Fountain of the Innocents!The photograph shows underground buildings going down about five floors.
The awe-inspiring giant Olmec head, a monumental testament to the artistry of ancient civilizations, skillfully carved between 1500 and 400 BCE. These colossal masterpieces, each weighing an astonishing 50 tons, not only captivate the eye but also unveil the remarkable capabilities and intricate societal structure of the Olmec civilization, echoing their legacy through the ages.
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Daulatabad Fort is pretty awesome, sitting high up on some sheer cliffs that soar about 50 meters (or 164 feet) into the sky. This place wasn’t just thrown together; it was carefully crafted to be tough to get into, taking full advantage of the natural landscape and some clever design. Its prime location and solid rock walls turned it into one of the most secure forts in India, keeping an eye on who comes in and out of the area for ages. It looks like something out of a fairy tale and has held its ground since the 12th century.
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Within the dense jungles of the Peruvian Amazon, a geological formation known as the Face of Harakbut is situated on the cliffs of the Amarakaeri Communal Reserve in the Madre de Dios region.
The real Dracula’s castle abandoned, photo taken in 1920s.
So, if you find yourself in Cusco, you’ve got to check out the incredible stonework there. It’s mind-blowing how these ancient folks managed to fit stones together perfectly without any mortar. I mean, seriously, how do you create structures that stand the test of time and seem to defy the laws of physics? And what’s up with those smooth, rounded corners? Did they know some secret trick to soften the stone or were they just working with some next-level building skills? It’s such a fascinating mystery!
Marvel at the polished red granite columns of Baalbek, Lebanon, dating back to around 27 BC. These enormous columns, rising to a height of 19 meters (62 feet) and weighing multiple tons, highlight the remarkable engineering prowess of the Roman period.
Abuna Yem’ata Guh | Tigray Region | EthiopiaSituated at a height of 2,580 metres (8,460 ft), it has to be climbed on foot to reach. It is notable for its architecture, dome & wall paintings dating back to the 5th century.
Perched near Lonavala in Maharashtra, Lohagad Fort stands tall at a staggering 1,033 meters (3,389 feet) above sea level, boasting a history that stretches over 2,000 years. This isn’t just any ordinary fort; it has served as a critical bastion for powerhouse rulers including the Marathas and Mughals. Its imposing architecture features the jaw-dropping Vinchu Kata, a wall that literally resembles a scorpion’s tail—talk about monumental ingenuity! If you think trekking is just a leisurely stroll, think again. Lohagad becomes an exhilarating experience during the monsoon, transformed into a lush, green paradise dotted with breathtaking waterfalls.
The Castle of Pietra is an often-overlooked treasure located in the mountainous terrain of Vobbia, Liguria, part of the Genoese hinterland. This ancient fortress, strategically positioned amidst imposing rock formations that serve as natural defenses, overlooks the Vobbia stream. As a designated part of the Antola Regional Natural Park, it is recognized as a protected national monument of Italy, drawing many visitors interested in both its historical relevance and stunning vistas.
The ancient amphitheater in Verona, Italy, built way back in 30 AD, really shows off the amazing skills of Roman engineers and architects. It’s pretty impressive that it’s still so well-kept after all these years! This place was once buzzing with gladiatorial games and huge entertainment events.
In Oklo, Gabon, a remarkable discovery has been made: a natural nuclear reactor dating back 2 billion years. This finding underscores the capacity of nature to replicate processes we typically associate with human innovation. Discovered in 1972, this site represents the only known occurrence of natural nuclear fission on Earth.Scientists identified an extraordinary phenomenon when they observed that the uranium ore found at the site contained a lower concentration of uranium-235, indicating that nuclear reactions had indeed occurred. For this natural reactor to evolve, several precise conditions had to be met: an abundance of uranium-235, the presence of groundwater serving as a natural moderator, and an adequate release of neutrons to sustain the chain reaction.The operation of this reactor was cyclical, with the presence of groundwater regulating its activity. As the reaction heated up, groundwater would boil off, subsequently pausing the reaction until conditions normalized. This ancient natural reactor evidences that our planet’s history encompasses processes as complex as those evident in our contemporary technological advancements, functioning quietly for hundreds of thousands of years.
Teotihuacan is this massive ancient city located just a bit outside of Mexico City, and it used to be home to more than 100,000 people! One of the coolest sights there is the Pyramid of the Sun, which is absolutely massive, standing at 216 feet tall (that’s about 66 meters). The city was built around 100 CE and its pyramids and streets were super important to a vibrant culture that just faded away centuries later. Nowadays, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and still attracts tons of visitors.
A 1,300-year-old arrow has emerged from the ice, preserved in astonishing detail since the moment it was lost to time.This remarkable artifact boasts a nearly complete structure, featuring its iron arrowhead, sinew binding, and wooden shaft—all just waiting to share their stories. The only missing piece? The fletching, though its faint imprint still echoes the craftsmanship of its maker. This incredible find is part of the Glacier Archaeology Program, which has unearthed over 3,000 treasures from melting ice patches in Innlandet. These extraordinary discoveries, ranging from hunting tools to garments, span 6,000 years of history, offering us a mesmerizing snapshot of life long ago, frozen in time.
This bent Viking sword, which dates back to the late 10th century AD, was unearthed in a grave located in Vold, Hedmark, Norway.It is believed that the sword’s pommel was lost during a ritualistic destruction process prior to being interred with its owner.Viking warriors often had their weapons intentionally bent or broken as part of burial rites, representing the conclusion of their functionality in this life.
The Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel in southern Egypt exemplifies the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture. Constructed circa 1264 BCE, this remarkable edifice is adorned with colossal statues of the pharaoh, expertly carved to pay homage to the deities and commemorate the reign of Ramses II. Notably, the temple’s architectural design includes a precise alignment that enables sunlight to penetrate the inner sanctum on two occasions each year, showcasing its remarkable engineering and aesthetic sophistication.
This is one stone out of 2 million and 300 thousand stones that were (supposedly) cut, dragged and lifted to build the Great Pyramid more than 5000 years ago.
Archaeologists at Karahan Tepe have made a significant discovery, unearthing a 7.5-foot-tall statue of a seated man depicted holding his genital organ. This site, which is considered a counterpart to Göbekli Tepe in Sanliurfa, Turkey, is estimated to date back to around 9400 BC. This remarkable finding provides valuable insights into early human culture and artistic practices, highlighting the complexities and expressions of human society during that period.
In the year 1980, archaeologists stumbled upon a treasure that would reverberate through the ages: the Kouros of Samos. This magnificent marble statue, soaring to an astonishing height of nearly 5.5 meters (18 feet), dates all the way back to 600-570 BC. Unearthed on the Sacred Way within the sacred precinct of the Heraion, the Kouros stands as a testament to the grandeur and artistry of ancient Greek craftsmanship, its striking presence captivating all who encounter it. The sheer scale and exquisite detail of this relic beckon us to explore the rich narrative of a civilization long past, igniting curiosity about the stories it could tell.
Enormous Hungarian swords from the 14th century, including an exceptional example measuring 270 cm (8.9 feet) in length, are displayed at the Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, Türkiye.
Pisaq, the jaw-dropping Inca citadel in Peru, is not just a historical site; it’s a testament to audacious design and sheer ingenuity.Located in the Sacred Valley, Pisaq’s complex layout is nothing short of genius. With its agricultural terraces, residential quarters, and ceremonial structures all melded seamlessly into the rugged landscape, it’s clear the Incas weren’t just building—they were redefining what it means to live in harmony with nature.
Porta Nigra, a remarkable Roman structure located in Trier, Germany. The Porta Nigra, meaning “Black Gate” in Latin, is an ancient city gate that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world and has long been a symbol of Trier’s rich history. The gate, originally built as part of the city’s fortifications, was later used as a church and underwent various modifications over the centuries.The structure’s burial beneath the earth is due to changes in the surrounding landscape over time. As Trier expanded, the city’s ground level gradually rose, eventually covering parts of the gate. What remains visible today is only the upper portion of the Porta Nigra, while the lower floors were once hidden beneath layers of soil and sediment.
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