Dwarfie Stane: Scotland's Dark Mystical Isle of Hoy, Home To The Mysterious 5,000-Year-Old Rock-Cut Tomb

A particularly old and substantial block of red sandstone is known as the "Dwarfie Stane." There has been a mystery surrounding this 5,000-year-old brick up to this day.

There is no documentation of who built this enormous tomb, how they did it, or for what purpose or purposes.

The mysterious stone, known as the Dwarfie Stane, is thought to be the sole rock-cut tomb in Britain and is located in a narrow valley with steep sides between Quoys and Rackwick on the island of Hoy in Orkney, Scotland.

Between the Neolithic and the Early Bronze Period, most likely around 3,000 BC, the chamber was hollowed out. Based on similar graves found in the Mediterranean region, this estimate was made.

What makes this enormous slab so unique? Someone once hollowed out the "Dwarfie Stane" using only a few basic tools, persistence, and a lot of physical might.

The stone slab is up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) high and measures roughly 8.5 meters (28 feet) long by 4 meters (13 feet) wide. The west face of the stone had an entrance that was 1 meter (3.3 ft) square and went into the inner chamber.

Both "bed-places," which are oddly too little for someone of average height, are the subject of numerous folktales and legends about dwarfs, and these ancient tales are said to encircle the location.

Visitors once left gifts at the "Dwarfie Stane" as a sign of their appreciation. Why? Was the room intended for a monk or hermit who lived there by himself?

It is reported that the aperture was first sealed with a sizable slab of sandstone that was outside the opening. It's interesting to note that the enigmatic tomb was still covered up until the 16th century.

The strange stone slab has never been the subject of any archaeological dig, and we have no idea what, if anything, was discovered inside.

Yet, there is evidence of a hole that was likely an effort to break into the inside of the stone via the roof that was later covered with concrete.

An old Orcadian mythology claims that a giant and his wife created the Dwarfie Stane. The gigantic pair was imprisoned inside the stone by a third giant who desired to become the ruler of the island of Hoy.

His malicious schemes, however, were foiled when the giant who was being held captive was able to escape through the chamber's roof.

History's Greatest Mysteries | Is the Trojan War fact or fiction

In today’s video we will investigate whether the Trojan War was a fact or fiction. Watch the video below to find out more!

The Cryptic Voynich Manuscript - World's Most Mysterious Book

The Voynich Manuscript is a handwritten document of unknown origin and authorship, written in an unknown script and language. The manuscript is named after Wilfrid Voynich, a Polish book dealer who purchased it in 1912. The manuscript contains approximately 240 pages, and is richly illustrated with diagrams, drawings of plants, astrological symbols, and human figures.

The Voynich Manuscript is written on vellum, a type of parchment made from animal skin, and has been dated to the early 15th century based on carbon dating of its materials. Despite many attempts by scholars and cryptographers, the script has not been fully deciphered, and the meaning of its contents remains a mystery.

Over the years, many theories have been put forward about the origins and purpose of the Voynich Manuscript. Some have suggested that it may be a medical or alchemical treatise, while others have proposed that it is a religious or mystical text. Others have speculated that it may be a hoax or a cipher that was intended to keep information secret.

Despite numerous attempts to decipher the manuscript, the script has remained indecipherable. Some researchers have claimed to have made progress in deciphering certain portions of the text, but their findings have been controversial and not widely accepted by the academic community.

In summary, the Voynich Manuscript is a mysterious and enigmatic document that has confounded scholars and intrigued the public for centuries. Its meaning and purpose remain a mystery, and its contents continue to be the subject of intense study and speculation.

The Lamp of Aeneas found in Tenea, Greece: What it proves about the city's relationship with Troy

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By Dimosthenis Vasiloudis

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Tenea: An Ancient City with a Rich History and Mythical Connections

Nestled in the region of Corinthia in southern Greece, the ancient city of Tenea boasts a history that dates back to the Bronze Age. Known for its cultural and historical significance, this enigmatic city has been the subject of archaeological studies for decades. Its origin story, which links Tenea to the Trojan War, has intrigued scholars and history enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the history behind the foundation of Tenea, its discovery by archaeologists, and delve into its possible connections to ancient Troy.

Foundation of Tenea

The foundation of Tenea is steeped in myth and legend. According to ancient Greek tradition, the city was founded by Trojan captives who were brought to the Peloponnese after the fall of Troy. These captives, were given the task by Agamemnon of building a new city, which they named Tenea in honor of the goddess Athena, who was also known as Teneatis.

This origin story, while rooted in myth, is believed to hold some elements of truth. It is thought that Tenea was established during the 12th century BC, around the same time that the Trojan War is thought to have taken place. The city's strategic location, between the ancient cities of Corinth and Mycenae, allowed it to grow and flourish throughout the centuries, becoming a prosperous trade center.

Discovery by Archaeologists

Tenea's ancient ruins remained hidden from the world until the 19th century when the first excavations began. However, it wasn't until the 21st century that the significance of the site started to become clear. In 2013, the archaeologist Eleni Korka led a team of researchers to conduct extensive excavations, unearthing a wealth of artifacts and evidence of ancient life.

The archaeological site spans several acres and includes remnants of ancient houses, tombs, and a theater. The discovery of an ancient cemetery, in particular, provided crucial insights into the lives of the people who once inhabited Tenea. The graves, which date from the 4th century BC to the 4th century AD, contained valuable offerings such as pottery, jewelry, and weapons, indicating the wealth and status of the ancient Teneans.

Clues About Tenea's Connection with Ancient Troy

The mythical connection between Tenea and ancient Troy has long captivated historians and archaeologists. While definitive proof of this connection remains elusive, there are several clues that suggest a strong link between the two cities.

Firstly, the mythological origin story of Tenea's foundation by Trojan captives implies a direct connection to Troy. Additionally, the worship of the goddess Athena Teneatis further strengthens this link, as Athena was the patron goddess of both cities.

Furthermore, during the excavations led by Eleni Korka, a stone inscription was found that bore the name of a Tenean man, Sekoundos. This discovery is significant because the name Sekoundos has a Trojan etymology, suggesting that the Teneans may have maintained their Trojan heritage for centuries after their settlement in Greece.

The Lamp of Aeneas - Tenea Under Roman Rule

There were several items uncovered at Tenea in 2018, including a Roman oil lamp depicting Aeneas leaving Troy holding his aged father Anchises on his shoulder and his younger son Ascanius by the hand. This representation was based on Virgil's epic "The Aeneid". A 500-square-meter complex of Roman baths was discovered during this season's dig at Tenea.

The relationship between the Romans and the Trojans is a captivating aspect of ancient history, blending myth and reality to create a powerful origin story. Despite the geographical and temporal distance between the two civilizations, the Romans viewed the Trojans as their ancestors, forging a connection that shaped the cultural and historical narrative of ancient Rome.

The most famous account of the relationship between the Romans and the Trojans comes exactly from the Roman poet Virgil's epic, the Aeneid. Written during the 1st century BC, the Aeneid recounts the story of Aeneas, a Trojan prince and the son of the goddess Venus (Aphrodite in Greek mythology) and the mortal Anchises. Following the fall of Troy, Aeneas and a group of survivors embark on a journey to find a new homeland.

After many trials and tribulations, Aeneas reaches the Italian peninsula, where he marries the Latin princess Lavinia and establishes the city of Alba Longa. According to the myth, Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, are direct descendants of Aeneas, thus connecting the Romans to the Trojans through a shared lineage.

The relationship between the Romans and the Trojans held significant political implications. By claiming descent from the Trojans, the Romans could assert their divine lineage and elevate their status among the ancient Mediterranean civilizations. Furthermore, this connection allowed Rome to distance itself from the Greeks, who were often viewed as rivals.

The Roman conquest of Greece began in the 2nd century BC, with the Macedonian Wars marking the beginning of Rome's expansion into the Greek world. By the mid-1st century BCE, Rome had effectively annexed the entirety of Greece, incorporating the region into the Roman Empire as the province of Achaea.

During this time, Tenea's strategic location between Corinth and Mycenae made it an important center for trade and communication. Consequently, the city attracted the attention of the Roman conquerors, who sought to integrate Tenea into their growing empire.

The Roman conquerors brought with them their own customs, beliefs, and practices, which influenced the local culture of Tenea. At the same time, Tenea's unique history and connections to ancient Troy likely intrigued the Romans, who themselves believed in a shared lineage with the Trojans through the myth of Aeneas.

This mutual fascination led to a cultural exchange, with the Romans adopting certain aspects of Tenean culture, and the Teneans integrating Roman practices into their own way of life. For instance, the worship of the goddess Athena Teneatis, which was central to the Tenean religious tradition, may have resonated with the Romans due to their own reverence for the goddess Minerva, the Roman equivalent of Athena.

The city of Tenea experienced a period of transformation under Roman rule, as it adapted to the new political, economic, and cultural landscape. Roman influence in Tenea is evident in the archaeological record, which shows the construction of buildings, infrastructure, and monuments characteristic of Roman architecture.

As part of the province of Achaea, Tenea enjoyed a degree of autonomy, allowing it to maintain its local customs and traditions. The city continued to prosper during the Roman period, benefiting from the extensive trade networks that connected the Roman Empire. The ancient cemetery discovered in Tenea, with its rich grave offerings, provides evidence of the city's wealth and status during this time.

While archaeological evidence has not yet provided conclusive proof of a connection between Tenea and ancient Troy, the tantalizing clues unearthed so far invite further exploration and study. As excavations continue, it is hoped that more insights into the captivating history of this enigmatic city will be revealed.

As Tenea continues to be uncovered and studied, it stands as a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of ancient Greece. Its unique history, which blends myth and reality, serves as a reminder of the complex connections between the ancient civilizations that shaped the world as we know it today.

In the meantime, the archaeological site of Tenea continues to draw visitors from around the world, eager to catch a glimpse of the city's ancient ruins and to uncover the mysteries that still lie buried beneath the earth. The ongoing exploration of Tenea promises to shed new light on the complexities of ancient Greek society and the enduring legacy of the Trojan War. As the story of Tenea unfolds, it enriches our understanding of the past and fuels our curiosity for the secrets that remain to be discovered.

What was life like after the Bronze Age collapse (Extended Version)

Have you ever wondered what life was like after the Bronze Age collapse? Watch the video below to find out everything!

Battle of Torvioll, 1444 Skanderbeg's Rebellion - Rise of the Albanian Dragon

Skanderbeg, a national hero of the Albanians, was the first to organize a league of Albanian princes, over which he was appointed commander in chief, in 1444. For twenty two years, in the period 1444-66, he effectively repulsed 13 Turkish invasions. His successful resistance to the Ottoman armies made him a hero throughout the Western world.

The Sacred Band of Thebes Documentary

In this ancient history documentary we take a closer look at one of the most famous units of history, the Sacred Band of Thebes. The video begins with an over view of the the history of Thebes. We cover its mythology, founding in the bronze age, and rise to power over the course of the Greco Persian wars, the Peloponnesian war, and the ensuing wars in greek history.

The Sacred Band actually only exists for a brief period of 40 years around the height of Theban power. It was formed in response to Spartan aggression following the restoration of the Theban democracy. The unit was supposedly composed of paired male lovers according to Plutarch. They were garrisoned on the acropolis of Thebes and became a jack of all trades for their polis, capable of serving as not just front line troops but also fire fighters and strategic strike forces.

The history documentary then covers their military training, equipment, and service history. This includes a discussion of the battle of Tegyra where they defeated a superior Spartan force and the famous battle of Leuctra where the Sacred Band of Thebes helped defeat a spartan army. Finally we conclude with the battle of Chaeronea where the Sacred Band faces its match in the invading Macedonian Army of Philip II of Macedon and his son, Alexander the Great.

Secrets of the Libyan Pharaohs

In this video we will explore the ruins of Tell Basta (site of ancient Bubastis) and San al-Hagar (site of ancient Tanis) to find out answers about the time of the Meshwesh Libyan rulers of Egypt in the mysterious Third Intermediate Period of Egyptian history. Enjoy!

Incredible Stone Age House: Primitive Technology 3,800BC

Here is a Stone Age Primitive House inspired by the 4,000 BC Horton Neolithic House excavated in Berkshire, England. Built with a Scots Pine roundwood timber frame, and 12 tons of reed thatch for the roof. With wattle and daub walls, a solid oak timber frame entrance with deer skin doors and complete with fire pit and deer skin beds inside. This replica Primitive House built at Butser Ancient Farm was inspired by the finds of Wessex Archeology. Only post holes and faint outlines of the foundations were discovered in Berkshire, England. We can only guess that the structure would have used a basic timber frame structure, likely an A-frame roof to shed water, and being near the river Thames, likely covered in water reed for the thatched roof.

The Soldier That Saw The Last Minutes Of Jesus On The Cross

In the following video we will be talking about the soldier that saw the last minute of Jesus on the cross. Watch the video to find out more!

Fossil prep: plesiosaur bone cluster mystery

In the following video we will be prepping a Cretaceous fossil. Watch the video to find out more!

Dwarka: Have archaeologists finally found India's sunken kingdom?

The city of Dwarka is one of the seven holy pilgrimage centres in India. It is the only place which is contemporary with the events described in the epic Mahabharata, where it is described as the ancient kingdom of Krishna. It is written that upon Krishna's death the city was sunk beneath the Arabian sea.

Today, archaeologists searching for the lost kingdom believe they have found evidence of its existence off the coast of the modern-day Dwarka, and are trying to understand what could have caused it to be lost beneath the sea.

What Was The Earth Like During The Ice Age?

For hundreds of millions of years, an abundance of large animals, the megafauna, was a prominent feature of the land and oceans. However, in the last few tens of thousands of years—a blink of an eye on many evolutionary and biogeochemical timescales—something dramatic happened to Earth’s ecology; megafauna largely disappeared from vast areas, rendered either actually or functionally extinct. Only in small parts of the world do megafauna exist at diversities anything close to their previous state, and, in many of these remaining regions, they are in a state of functional decline through population depletion and range contraction.

The last ice age peaked around 20,000 years ago. Glaciers covered huge areas of North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. The last ice age was during the Pleistocene epoch which was a geological period starting 2.6 million years ago and ending 11,700 years ago. This epoch saw many glacial and interglacial periods. When the climate was cooler, the glaciers advanced. When it was warmer, they retreated. During the last ice age, global temperatures were about 11 degrees Fahrenheit (or 6 degrees Celsius) cooler than today. This last ice age began 115,000 years ago and ended 11,700 years ago.

With cooler temperatures and a lot of ice cover, there was less precipitation and less rainfall. Snow and ice reflected more of the sun’s rays, only adding to the cold. In addition, sea levels were much lower as more of the oceans were locked up as ice. This resulted in land bridges that had previously been covered by the sea. These bridges allowed species to access islands from the mainland and even cross from one continent to another.

Troy: The Real City Behind the World's Most Famous Myth

In the following video we will discuss about the real city of Troy behind the world’s most famous myth. Watch the video to find out more!

Where Did Cheese Really Come From?

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How Did the Ancient Romans Actually Dress?

Picture a citizen of the Roman Empire. What are they wearing? Most likely, you imagined someone wearing a white toga, sandals, and maybe some kind of laurel on their head. But most ancient Romans didn't really dress that way in their day-to-day lives.

Many of us get our ideas of how Romans dressed from pop culture - movies like Spartacus or Gladiator, or TV shows like Rome. But no movie or TV show can perfectly recreate a historical era no matter how big their budget, and many don't try very hard.

What Life Was Like as a Samurai In Feudal Japan

Samurai dominated the country of Japan from the 12th to the 19th century. The fierce, disciplined warriors lived according to the bushido code, an unwritten set of rules and norms based in loyalty, sacrifice, bravery, and honor, remembered popularly as samurai code. Along with the code came samurai traditions and customs that defined their physical appearance, sexual relationships, how they killed and how they died. Just like pirates cherished their earrings and Vikings dyed their hair, samurai demonstrated their dedication to the code and to their lifestyle in some unique ways.

10 Ludicrous Laws from the Middle Ages That We Still Break Today

The Middle Ages spanned from roughly 500 to 1500 CE. For much of that time, the people of England lived under a feudal system in which both the laws, and the penalties for breaking them, were significantly more bizarre than the ones we are familiar with today.

What Viking Diets Were Really Like

Though Vikings are known for pillaging the coasts of Europe, Viking facts reveal that the marauders were more than just bearded warriors filled with blood-thirsty rage. Analysis of what Vikings ate shows that the ancient Norse people had surprisingly modern appetites. The Viking diet went beyond slabs of meat and tankards of mead to include a healthy balance of vegetables and breakfast staples like yogurt.

The perception of Vikings as crude, dirty troublemakers doesn't match up with the refined nature of their meals. Viking cuisine incorporated a range of food and drink options, creating the balanced diet that made Viking men such notorious bruisers.

The Mysterious Disease That Wiped Out the Aztecs

For hundreds of years, history left us wondering what disease killed the Aztecs in the mid-1500s. Many assumed the Aztecs were one of many Central American groups to be wiped out by European diseases like smallpox. However, DNA testing has unearthed new evidence about what really killed 80% of the Aztecs.