The sixth century historian Procopius, in both his History of the Wars, and The Secret History, mentions a sea monster--a gigantic whale--named Porphyrios that dwelt in the Bosporus Strait and the Black Sea, and which terrorized the shipping lanes around Constantinople for about fifty years, and which causes significant headaches for the Emperor Justinian & the Roman navy. Our information is fairly limited, but what can we say about this real life Moby Dick?
Archaeological discovery made beneath a Paris train station
In today’s video we're going to delve into an incredible archaeological discovery made beneath a Paris train station: an ancient necropolis dating back nearly 2,000 years. Located beneath the bustling Port-Royal station on the historic Left Bank, this lost necropolis belonged to the Gallo-Roman town of Lutetia, which is modern-day Paris. The site was overlooked during the station's construction in 2014 and was only discovered when plans for a new station exit were announced.
The Plain of Jars: megalithic archaeological mystery in Laos
In the video below we will be exploring the Plain of Jars, a megalithic archaeological mystery in Laos. Enjoy!
Secrets of the Sphinx (the ancient Egyptian mystery)
In the following video we will be explaining the secrets of the Sphinx. Watch the video to find out more!
A Day In The Life Of A Viking
In this video, we delve into the vibrant tapestry of Viking society, focusing on the daily lives of free men and women, as well as the contrasting experiences of slaves, both adults and children. Enjoy!
The most impressive historical artifacts with the skillful craftsmanship of Ancient History
In this video we will go through some of the most impressive historical artifacts that constitute material evidence of the dexterous workmanship of old times. Enjoy!
The Dodo Bird: 5 Things You May Not Have Known
Although the dodo became extinct in 1690, this bird was more complex than you would realize.
Dodos were odd birds. According to popular belief, the name "dodo" derives from the Dutch word "dodoor," which means lethargic. But after examining its anatomy, scientists believe it was capable of running quickly.
The dodo, however, was not swift enough to escape its fate. The dodo was ready to believe the human settlers who came to its island because it was living on an island without predators and this led to its eventual extinction. Here are five additional facts about the dodo that you might not be aware of.
1 Weird Appearance
Dodos, which descended from Asian pigeons, lived on the Indian island of Mauritius. It had a massive head, a big hooked-tipped bill, and short legs. It weighed roughly 50 pounds. Most notably, their pectoral muscles weren't powerful enough to fly, and their wings were too short. Most likely, evolutionary biology is what led to this.
Dodos evolved to become larger and lost their capacity to fly since they were no longer need to use flight to flee from predators. Ostriches and penguins are two more birds that once flew but have since lost their ability to do so.
2 Reproduction
Despite the fact that many birds lay multiple eggs at once, it has been assumed based on eyewitness accounts that a female dodo would only lay one egg at a time. They would construct their nests on the ground and encircle them with grass as they were incapable of flying.
Up until 1638, when Dutch settlers began to arrive in Mauritius, the dodo population was thriving. The dodo population never rebounded once people moved in and started killing them; finally, they became extinct.
3 Extinction
The dodo had all the food it needed to survive, thrive, and live in safety in Mauritius for many years. As was previously said, that is, until a Dutch settlement arrived up. Contrary to common perception, settlers didn't enjoy the taste of the dodo bird, and their consumption did not cause the dodo population to decline.
Rats, monkeys, dogs, sheep, and pigs were just a few of the creatures the immigrants brought with them that decimated the dodo population. While humans harmed the trees where the dodos resided, these animals destroyed nests and ate the eggs. Although experts put the period as late as 1690 in 2013, the generally accepted extinction date is 1662.
4 They Weren't Stupid
"Ignorant," "dummy," "moron," and "dull" are a few synonyms for "dodo." However, dodos were not naive. Their brain-to-body ratio, according to research, indicates that they are of average intelligence. Dodos also have a big olfactory bulb, which improved their sense of smell. Birds usually rely on vision, thus this is rare for them.
5 Researchers May Try To Bring Them Back
Beth Shapiro, an evolutionary researcher, explores isolated areas in search of fossils from which to extract the DNA of extinct species. Her research has primarily concentrated on the dodo among other animals. She stated that the dodo had been fully sequenced earlier this year, albeit the results had not yet been made public. She has shown interest in the prospect of reviving the dodo.
According to her in an interview with Smithsonian Magazine, "if the dodo were to be brought back, it could be restored to protected habitats on [the island nation of] Mauritius, where people could go to observe dodos in their native habitat."
Augustus and the "Altar of Peace"
In today’s video we will be exploring a monumental altar in the heart of Rome and the rise of the first emperor. Watch the video to find out more!
Dunkleosteus: One of the largest and fiercest sharks 380 million years ago
The name Dunkleosteus is a combination of two words: ‘osteon’ is a Greek word for bone, and Dunkle is named after David Dunkle. A well-known American paleontologist whose study mostly concentrated on fish fossils and is best known for his work in vertebrate paleontology at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
This placoderm is reputed to consume anything, or at least most things, and is extremely fast and powerful. The Dunkleosteus is one of the biggest placoderms ever to have lived and is said to have been one of the fiercest during the Late Devonian era, often known as the ‘Age of Fishes.’
The Dunkleosteus was known to weigh up to 8000 lb (3600 kg) and have a length of up to 346 in (8.8 m). D. terrelli, D. Belgicus, D. denisoni, D. marsaisi, D. magnificus, D. missouriensis, D. newberryi, D. amblyodoratus, and D.raveri are the 10 species of Dunkleosteus.
They are noted for their strength and ability to move their jaws swiftly, allowing them to effortlessly hunt animals. Dunkleosteus fossils have been discovered in North America, Morocco, Poland, and Belgium, among other places.
The Dunkleosteus appears to be an intriguing animal, however, there is little information known about it owing to extinction and age (it existed 360-370 million years ago). While nothing is known about many areas of the Dunkleosteus body, substantial information has been gathered from Dunkleosteus fossils and reconstruction.
The Dunkleosteus was revealed to have a two-part bony and armored exterior. It has two pairs of sharp bony plates that form a beak-like shape. Reconstructions have also revealed that certain Dunkleosteus species possessed pectoral fins, suggesting that the fin pattern in placoderms is heavily impacted by mobility needs.
Dunkleosteus terrelli is distinguished by its shark-like look and a prominent front lobe on its tail. The Dunkleosteus was the most powerful fish alive during the Late Devonian era. It is reported to reach 346 in (8.8 m) long and weigh up to 8000 lb (3600 kg), making it one of the biggest placoderms ever to have existed.
The Dunkleosteus is recognized for its large and muscular physique, as well as its enormous biting force capable of effortlessly chopping ancient sharks. A Dunkleosteus is one of the biggest fish species ever known to exist. They may weigh up to 8000 lb (3600 kg), making them large creatures.
Dunkleosteus was not a particularly excellent swimmer, according to legend. Because it was usually found in shallow seas and oceans, its bone structure was adequate to defend itself against other species, and its abundance did not cause Dunkleosteus to travel deep into the sea in search of food. The Dunkleosteus was a sluggish swimmer due to its thick and bony body and armor-like bone structure.
The Dunkleosteus had a system known as four-bar linkage, which allowed it to extend its jaw quickly and deliver a strong biting force while shutting the mouth. The pressure produced aided the Dunkleosteus in cutting through any cuticle, dental build, or armor.
As a result, it is thought that, in addition to ammonites and other placoderm fish, sharks, and other free-swimming species, they are also known to devour fish from their own species when hungry. This is reinforced by the discovery of fish bones and other semi-digested or indigested elements in the fossils.
Dunkleosteus’s habitat is unclear, although it has been reported that Dunkleosteus has been discovered in shallow oceans across the world. It is thought that Dunkleosteus was one of the first creatures to reproduce sexually via the mechanism of egg fertilization. The lifetime of a Dunkleosteus is unclear, although it existed during the Devonian period 360-370 million years ago.
Dunkleosteus is regarded as one of the most hazardous sea predators. Many characteristics have been linked to this armored predator, making it one of the most hazardous placoderms. The major causes are its cannibalistic nature and its ability to bend metal.
10 Mother Saints of Christianity Celebrated on International Mother's Day
On the occasion of International Mother's Day, we explore the lives and stories of ten exceptional women who not only exemplified the ideals of motherhood but were also sanctified for their faith and devotion. In Christianity, these women, known as saints, are celebrated for their significant contributions to the faith, shaping its history, and inspiring believers across the globe.
Mary, the Holy Mother of Jesus
Mary, the mother of Jesus, is arguably the most revered mother figure in Christianity. She is venerated for her acceptance of God's will, her unwavering faith, and her strength in enduring the trials of motherhood. Mary's role as the mother of the Savior of mankind is central to Christian belief. Her gentle yet powerful influence continues to inspire Christians worldwide, making her a paramount figure on Mother's Day.
1. St. Emmelia of Caesarea
St. Emmelia of Caesarea was an influential mother in the 4th century. Known for her piety and the Christian upbringing she provided her children, five of whom are recognized as saints, including St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory of Nyssa, St. Emmelia's legacy as a nurturing mother and devout Christian serves as an example of dedication to both family and faith.
2. St. Anna, mother of the Virgin Mary
St. Anna, also known as Anne, is traditionally revered as the mother of the Virgin Mary. Her faith and virtue were instrumental in raising Mary, who would become the mother of Jesus. St. Anna's devotion to her daughter's upbringing underlines the importance of maternal guidance and the influence a mother's faith can have on future generations.
3. St. Sophia
St. Sophia was a revered martyr of the early Christian church, recognized for her unwavering faith and strength as a mother. She and her three daughters, Faith, Hope, and Charity, suffered persecution for their beliefs. St. Sophia's courage in the face of adversity and her commitment to instilling Christian values in her children serve as poignant reminders of the power of a mother's love.
4. St. Alexandra, wife of Emperor Diocletian
St. Alexandra, the wife of Emperor Diocletian, is venerated for her conversion to Christianity and her steadfast faith despite her husband's infamous persecution of Christians. Her commitment to her faith, even in the face of danger, is a testament to her courage and dedication. Her life story is a powerful message about the strength of a mother's conviction.
5. St. Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist
St. Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, holds a special place in Christian tradition. Despite her advanced age, Elizabeth was blessed with a son, a miracle attributed to her unwavering faith. Her nurturing of John, who became a significant figure in Christianity, underlines the impact a mother's faith and guidance can have on her child's path.
6. St. Theodota
St. Theodota was a mother martyred for her faith in the early Christian church. She and her three sons were persecuted for their Christian beliefs, demonstrating their commitment to their faith even in the face of death. St. Theodota's sacrifice, along with her nurturing of her sons' faith, underscores the profound influence of a mother's faith and courage.
7. St. Felicitas
St. Felicitas, also known as Felicity, was a Christian martyr known for her unwavering faith and devotion. As a mother of seven sons, all of whom were martyred for their beliefs, her story is one of profound sacrifice and courage. St. Felicitas serves as a potent symbol of a mother's strength and resilience in the face of adversity and her unwavering faith even in the midst of immense personal loss.
8. St. Theopisti
St. Theopisti was a devoted mother and wife in the 9th century who endured great personal tragedy. After the deaths of her husband and son, she turned to a life of seclusion and prayer, dedicating her remaining years to the service of God. Her story is a powerful testament to the strength of a mother's faith and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of suffering.
9. St. Makrina the Elder
St. Makrina the Elder was the grandmother of St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory of Nyssa, and St. Peter of Sebaste. A devoted Christian, she fled the persecutions of Diocletian, leading her Christian community into the wilderness. She is remembered for her wisdom, faith, and the Christian values she instilled in her grandchildren, several of whom became key figures in the church.
10. St. Helen
St. Helen, the mother of Constantine the Great, is revered for her influence on her son and her significant contributions to Christianity. She is credited with finding the true cross upon which Jesus was crucified during her pilgrimage to the Holy Land, a discovery that greatly influenced Christian devotion. Her life story exemplifies a mother's influence and the lasting legacy it can leave on her children and society.
These ten saintly mothers, celebrated on International Mother's Day, embody the essence of motherhood: unconditional love, sacrifice, strength, and resilience. They demonstrate the profound influence a mother's faith, guidance, and love can have on her children and, in turn, the world. Their stories continue to inspire and provide lessons of faith, courage, and love to Christians worldwide. As we celebrate mothers around the globe, we remember these ten saintly mothers for the unparalleled examples of motherhood they have set.
What Did Cleopatra Look Like?
by The Archaeologist Editor Group
The Enigma of Cleopatra: Modern Reconstructions and the Quest for Her True Appearance
If one thing is clear from the various accounts and reconstructions of Cleopatra, it's that her allure went far beyond her physical appearance. Cleopatra VII, the last queen of Egypt, has been a character of fascination and intrigue for centuries. Known for her intelligence, charm, and political acumen, she was a woman who made a significant mark in a world dominated by men. She was fluent in multiple languages, well-versed in politics, and an astute diplomat—traits that made her a formidable leader.
However, the question of her physical appearance, specifically her beauty, has always been a topic of debate. Her true power lay in her intellect, her charm, and her political acumen. Cleopatra’s ability to captivate and influence others was central to her rule. She managed to form alliances with two of the most powerful Romans of the time—first Julius Caesar and later Mark Antony—which were crucial for the maintenance of her power in Egypt. These alliances and the relationships she forged speak volumes about her charisma and ability to persuade.
Documentation in the literature
One of the most enduring portrayals of Cleopatra is that of a woman of unparalleled beauty. This is a narrative that has been perpetuated by countless plays, movies, and novels, most notably William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. However, the historical texts present a somewhat different picture.
Plutarch, a Greek biographer and essayist, made the earliest surviving description of Cleopatra in his work "Parallel Lives". Interestingly, he doesn't dwell on her physical appearance but emphasizes her charismatic persona and intellectual prowess. He notes that "her actual beauty, it is said, was not in itself so remarkable, but the attraction of her person and the character that attended all she said or did were something bewitching."
Cassius Dio, another Roman historian, also focused more on Cleopatra's persuasive abilities and personal charm than her physical attractiveness. These descriptions suggest that Cleopatra’s allure was not based solely, or even primarily, on her looks.
Author Louis le Grand
Artistic Depictions and Coinage
In contrast to the romanticized portrayals of Cleopatra, the extant artistic depictions and coinage of her profile provide a more realistic, albeit stylized, representation of her appearance.
Coins minted during Cleopatra's reign depict her with a prominent nose, a strong chin, and deep-set eyes. Some historians believe that these coins were a deliberate political statement, indicating Cleopatra's desire to be seen as equal to her male counterparts.
Similarly, the few surviving statues and carvings of Cleopatra from the ancient world do not present an image of classical beauty. The Berlin Cleopatra, a painted limestone statue from the 1st century BC, shows her with a hooked nose and a stern expression.
Modern Reconstructions and Their Challenges
Modern reconstructions of Cleopatra's appearance are fraught with challenges, primarily due to a lack of reliable source material. The surviving depictions are few and often stylized, while the textual descriptions are vague and focus more on her charisma than her physical attributes.
The portrayal of Cleopatra in modern media, particularly in films, has largely adhered to Western ideals of beauty. Elizabeth Taylor's depiction of Cleopatra in the 1963 movie is perhaps the most iconic example. This representation, though visually compelling, perpetuates the image of Cleopatra as a seductress and overshadows her political achievements and personal prowess.
In recent years, forensic anthropologists and digital artists have used the coinage and artistic depictions as a basis for creating lifelike reconstructions of Cleopatra. However, these interpretations are largely speculative, as they rely on an artistic impression rather than definitive evidence.
Furthermore, the idea of beauty is subjective and varies across different cultures and eras. What was considered beautiful in Ptolemaic Egypt might not align with modern standards of beauty. Therefore, judging Cleopatra's attractiveness by contemporary standards is a contentious and potentially anachronistic endeavor.
The quest to understand what Cleopatra looked like and whether she was beautiful underscores our fascination with this legendary queen. However, it's clear that her allure transcended physical beauty. She was a woman of immense intellect, charisma, and political savvy.
While it's interesting to speculate on her appearance, it's equally important to acknowledge and celebrate Cleopatra for her accomplishments as a ruler. After all, her influence has endured for over two millennia – a testament to her extraordinary life and legacy. It is this multifaceted allure, rather than her physical appearance, that truly defines Cleopatra's enduring appeal.
Was Cleopatra beautiful? The answer largely depends on one's interpretation of the surviving evidence and one's understanding of beauty. Cleopatra may not have been the classical beauty portrayed in popular culture, but her charisma, intelligence, and political savvy were undoubtedly captivating. Perhaps it is this multi-dimensional allure that has made Cleopatra an enduring figure of fascination, proving that beauty is, indeed, more than skin deep.
Jordan River Just Shocked Scientists With This
Scientists around the world are reeling in shock as a mysterious and terrifying event has unfolded in the Jordan River. Something inexplicable has happened that has left experts scratching their heads, struggling to understand what has occurred. Join us as we delve into the heart of this unnerving mystery and explore the implications of this strange and alarming occurrence. Are you ready to uncover the chilling truth behind what just happened with the Jordan River? Let's start talking!
The Jordan River travels through the country and history of the Bible, giving its waters a spiritual meaning that distinguishes it from other rivers. The Jewish people have a special connection to the Jordan River because, under Joshua's leadership, the Israelite tribes were able to ford the river on dry land and enter the Promised Land after spending years wandering in the wilderness.
15 Most Mysterious Archaeological Discoveries In the World
Those eager archaeologists are always digging stuff up and, in doing so, they’re alwaysfinding things that arguably never should have been found! Sometimes oddly deformed bodies, or even whole cities, can turn up! Who truly knows what is buried under our world’s dirt and earth!? These are the most mysterious archaeological discoveries in the world!
Graham Hancock Explains the Mystery of the Olmecs
In the following video we will be watching Graham Hancock explaining the mystery of the Olmecs to Joe Rogan. Watch the video for more!
The Craziest Parties in Roman History
Live tigers, floating taverns, a few thousand gladiators... this video explores five of the most excessive parties in Roman history. Enjoy!
12 Most Mysterious Archaeological Finds
Get ready to explore some of the world's most mysterious archaeological discoveries in this exciting video. Despite the best efforts of experts, we have yet to fully understand the significance of these artefacts. From partially understood relics to completely incomprehensible objects, the secrets they hold remain a mystery. Join us on a journey of discovery through time and space as we delve into the puzzles these ancient relics represent.
Scientific Evidence of Conflict Between Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons?
The Neanderthals were cooperative big game hunters, just like lions, wolves, and modern humans. These predators, at the top of the food chain, have few predators of their own, and competition drives conflict over hunting grounds. The same issue affected our big-headed evolutionary cousins; if predators didn't limit their population, conflict would have resulted.
Indeed, Humans have a long history of territorial behavior. Intense territorial conflicts also exist among chimpanzees, our closest living relatives. Male chimpanzees regularly form groups to ambush males from opposing bands, a behavior that is startlingly similar to human warfare.
Modern Humans frequently experience interpersonal conflict, and Neanderthals were very similar to us. Our DNA is 99.7% the same, and our skull and skeletal structures are remarkably similar. Neanderthals were astonishingly similar to us in terms of behavior.
The evidence from archaeology shows that Neanderthal lives were anything but tranquil. Warfare during the prehistoric period leaves traces. Due to the effectiveness of clubs as quick, potent, and precise weapons, prehistoric Homo sapiens and Neanderthals frequently exhibit skull trauma.
In point of fact, a new study reveals that a vicious attack on a Neanderthal caused a fracture in a 40,000 year-old skull. A computer reconstruction of the St. Césaire skull, discovered in France, led to this conclusion. According to the authors, their findings have significant ramifications for comprehending Neanderthals' social interactions with modern humans.
Mongolian nomads’ ultimate dilemma
Nomads in Mongolia have always had an intimate relationship with wolves, and travelled with the wild canines. But as the Mongolian economy has boomed drastically, a dilemma is imposed upon the nomads; maintain their relationships with nature, or cave in to the overwhelming force of the economy.
Faced with the conundrum is a shepherd Purevjav. Wolves have been killing his livestock to feed themselves, and Purevjav is well aware of the value the wolves’ pelts hold if exported. To sustain his family, Purevjav is pressed to hunt the pack of wolves he considers scared.
The Aztec Empire Weird Ancient History
Journey back in time and explore the world of the Aztecs in this mini documentary. Unearth the secrets of their advanced technology, remarkable architecture, and fascinating mythology. Delve into the mysteries surrounding their sudden collapse and uncover the lasting impact they left on modern society. Prepare to be amazed as we unlock the ancient wisdom of this powerful civilization reveal the true story of the Aztecs like never before.
What Was Earth Like Before the Dinosaurs?
Millions of years ago, Earth looked very different. All the continents were fused into one, teeming with life that was both beautiful and terrifying. When you think of prehistoric times, you might picture a T. rex rampaging through the jungle with its razor-sharp teeth. But even before the dinosaurs, there were other giant creatures ruling the Earth.
