Defleshed and Dismembered Corpses Revealed At Enigmatic Prehistoric Mega-Stone Spanish Burial

In the annals of history, the ancient practices surrounding death and burial rituals have often held a profound fascination for archaeologists and historians. Recent findings at Los Zumacales and La Lora in northern Spain have unveiled a mysterious and perplexing burial practice that occurred around 6,000 years ago. The discovery of defleshed and dismembered corpses within massive stone tombs has shed new light on the enigmatic funerary traditions of this bygone era.

A Glimpse into the Past

The monumental stone tombs at Los Zumacales and La Lora, unearthed several decades ago, have yielded a treasure trove of insights into the lives and deaths of the individuals who inhabited the Iberian Peninsula during the fourth millennium BC. A recent study, published in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, delves deep into the burial practices associated with these colossal tombs, seeking to unravel the social and natural processes that led to the peculiar state of the remains.

The Astonishing Discovery

Through meticulous examination of the skeletal remains, researchers, led by Angélica Santa-Cruz from the Universidad de Salamanca in Spain, made a startling revelation. Between 70 percent and 90 percent of the bones interred within the megatombs bore evidence of fracture and fragmentation. Notably, some of the fractures exhibited what can only be described as "butterfly-shaped" breaks, hinting at the possibility that they were created post-excavation using stone tools.

The Findings and Their Implications

The implications of these findings are nothing short of extraordinary. It appears that the ancient people who inhabited these regions practiced a form of secondary reduction on the remains following their initial deposition. This evidence raises numerous questions and theories about the motivations behind such a funerary practice.

One hypothesis suggests that this post-mortem manipulation of bones may have been part of a "death management process." It is conceivable that this practice was intended to expedite the natural decomposition of the bodies, with certain bones possibly collected and venerated as relics—a way to ensure the deceased's spiritual journey continued. This theory aligns with similar practices observed in various cultures throughout history.

However, there exists another, more unsettling possibility. The cut marks and fractures on the bones could also indicate signs of post-death cannibalism. While such a claim must be made cautiously, previous studies in ancient northwestern Europe have documented instances of this practice. It serves as a stark reminder of the complexity and diversity of funerary customs in different cultures and time periods.

The Quest for Understanding

Despite the tantalizing insights offered by this discovery, the exact motivation behind these ancient practices remains elusive. It is here that the scientific community calls for further research and investigation. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the funerary practices of the time, it is imperative to conduct additional studies on bones from tombs in the surrounding area.

The ancient stone tombs of Los Zumacales and La Lora have unveiled a chapter of history that is both captivating and enigmatic. The defleshed and dismembered corpses discovered within these imposing structures offer a glimpse into the complex world of ancient burial rituals. As we strive to decipher the motivations and beliefs that drove these practices, one thing remains clear: the past continues to surprise us, challenging our understanding of the human experience and the mysteries of the afterlife.

Viking Dentistry: Unveiling Ancient Techniques and Surprising Discoveries

The Viking Age has long fascinated historians and archaeologists, offering a glimpse into the lives of these seafaring warriors. Beyond their legendary exploits, recent research conducted at the University of Gothenburg has unveiled a lesser-known aspect of Viking life: their surprisingly advanced dentistry practices. In this article, we will delve into the findings of the study conducted in Varnhem, Sweden, shedding light on how Vikings cared for their teeth, sometimes not unlike today's dental treatments.

A Glimpse into the Past

The archaeological site at Varnhem, Sweden, has been a treasure trove of Viking history, with thousands of graves dating back to the 10th to 12th centuries AD. Among the preserved skeletons and teeth, Carolina Bertilsson and her team embarked on a meticulous study of over 3,293 teeth from 171 individuals.

Advanced Techniques

To examine the dental health of the Viking population, the researchers employed a combination of clinical and radiographical examinations. The teeth were subjected to clinical inspections using standard dentistry tools under bright light, mimicking modern dental examinations. X-ray examinations were also conducted, similar to contemporary dental practices.

Surprising Findings

The study's results, published in the journal PLOS ONE, revealed that approximately 49% of the Viking population in Varnhem had one or more caries lesions. Surprisingly, 13% of adult teeth showed signs of caries, often affecting the tooth roots. However, children with milk teeth, and those with both milk and adult teeth, were entirely caries-free.

Tooth loss was also a common occurrence among adults, with an average loss of 6% of teeth over their lifetimes (excluding wisdom teeth), and this risk increased with age. These findings indicate that caries, tooth infections, and toothaches were prevalent among the Viking population in Varnhem.

To the left a row of teeth showing clear signs that the person has made diligent use of toothpicks. To the right filed front teeth. The purpose of filing is unclear, but may have been used as an identity marker for men. Photo: Carolina Bertilsson

Evidence of Care

Despite these dental issues, the study revealed signs of Vikings actively caring for their teeth. There were indications of toothpick usage, filing of front teeth, and even attempts at dental treatment for infected teeth. Notably, some molars had holes drilled from the crown into the pulp, presumably to relieve pressure and lessen excruciating toothaches brought on by infections. This technique closely resembles modern dental procedures, where infected teeth are drilled into for treatment.

Identity Markers

One intriguing discovery was the filing of front teeth, which may have served as identity markers, primarily among men. While the exact purpose of this practice remains unclear, it adds another layer to our understanding of Viking culture and societal dynamics.

The study conducted in Varnhem, Sweden, provides valuable insights into the oral health and dental practices of the Viking population. It challenges the perception that Vikings had primitive dentistry and suggests that their approach to dental care was more advanced and sophisticated than previously thought.

These discoveries serve as a reminder that history is a tapestry of intricate details just waiting for devoted researchers like Carolina Bertilsson and her team to unravel it. The Viking dentistry practices unearthed in Varnhem serve as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of this enigmatic culture, shedding new light on their daily lives.

The Making of a God: Netflix Launches New Docudrama about Alexander The Great

In the realm of historical documentaries, few figures have captivated the imagination quite like Alexander the Great. His life and conquests are the stuff of legends, and now Netflix is set to bring his story to life in a new documentary series titled "Alexander: The Making of a God." Scheduled for release on January 31, 2024, this series promises to take viewers on an epic journey through the life of one of history's most iconic figures.

Filmed primarily in Morocco in September 2022, "Alexander: The Making of a God" boasts an impressive cast. Mido Hamada steps into the role of King Darius, while Buck Braithwaite takes on the formidable task of portraying Alexander the Great himself. Tony Mitchell, who is well-known for his work on "The Baxter's" and the lauded "The Bible," produced the six-episode series.

Alexander: The Making of A God – Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2024

The premise of the documentary series is tantalizing: "Combining expert interviews with gripping reenactments, this docudrama explores the life of Alexander the Great through his conquest of the Persian Empire." It promises to delve deep into the psyche of this legendary conqueror, shedding light on the man behind the myth.

Alexander the Great, born on July 20 or 21, 356 B.C., in Pella, the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedonia, left an indelible mark on history. During his reign from 336 to 323 B.C., he achieved remarkable feats. He united the Greek city-states, a task previously thought impossible, and led the Corinthian League, forging a powerful alliance.

His conquests didn't stop there. Alexander went on to become the king of Persia, Babylon, and Asia, extending Macedonian influence across vast territories. His legacy even includes the establishment of Macedonian colonies in these regions. The audacious young king dreamed of conquests that would reach as far as Carthage and Rome, but alas, his journey was cut short.

Alexander: The Making of A God – Cr. Courtesy of Netflix © 2024

Tragically, Alexander succumbed to malaria in Babylon on June 13, 323 B.C. His untimely death marked the end of an era and left an empire in the hands of ambitious generals.

Alexander's early years were distinctive due to his upbringing in the royal court of Pella. His parents, King Philip II of Macedon and Queen Olympia, daughter of King Neoptolemus, provided a regal backdrop for his childhood. It was here that Alexander received his earliest education under the tutelage of his relative, Leonidas of Epirus. However, controlling the restless and headstrong prince proved to be a daunting challenge for Leonidas.

Alexander's thirst for knowledge and adventure led him to his next tutor, Lysimachus, who employed innovative role-playing techniques to engage his young charge. Notably, the young prince was enamored with the legendary warrior Achilles, a fascination that would influence his future.

In conclusion, "Alexander: The Making of a God" promises to be a riveting exploration of one of history's most extraordinary individuals. We eagerly anticipate the release of this series, which has the potential to offer fresh insights into the life and times of Alexander the Great. It is an opportunity for both enthusiasts and newcomers to delve into the rich tapestry of Hellenic history and the enduring legacy of a man who became a legend in his own time. So, mark your calendars for January 31, 2024, and prepare to embark on a captivating journey through the life and conquests of Alexander the Great.

12 Most Incredible Ancient Artifacts Finds

Ancient artifacts can provide valuable insights into history, even the smallest artifacts can offer significant information. The first discovery is a miniature Bible found in the archives of a library in Leeds, England, containing both the Old and New Testaments in full, despite being just 2 inches tall.

The second discovery is the revival of the ancient Italian tradition of selling wine and other goods through special hatches known as wine windows, which first became popular during the Italian plague of 1629 to 1631 and regained popularity during the pandemic.

The third discovery is a sword found by archaeologists in County Firmina, Northern Ireland, initially thought to be a leftover from a 16th-century battle, but later found to be a relic of the Bronze Age, dating back 2700 years.

The fourth artifact is an ancient Inca object known as a pcha, a foot plow used to mark the beginning of the annual agricultural cycle, and symbolically irrigate and inseminate the ground.

The fifth discovery is a twisted string found in Oetzi the Iceman's quiver, made of animal fibers, confirmed to be a bowstring, offering new insights into his hunting practices.

What If Titanoboa Snake Never Went Extinct?

Titanoboa, the largest snake ever discovered, lived 60 million years ago in the swampy jungles of South America. It was a colossal snake that stretched a remarkable 13 meters long and weighed upwards of 1,000 kilograms.

Titanoboa had anatomical characteristics of a boa constrictor, but it behaved more like an anaconda, spending most of its time immersed in shallow water. It may have masked its giant body in layers of mud and murky water, slowly ambushing its prey, clamping down its hooked teeth, and choking the life from their bodies. Titanoboa could capture and kill the largest predators in its ecosystem, including crocodylomorphs and even other snakes.

During the Paleocene Epoch, global temperatures climbed due to abundant CO2 in the atmosphere, and under these conditions, the tropics of South America became a smoldering greenhouse. Cold-blooded animals like snakes flourished in the superheated jungles of the mid to late Paleocene, but none more than Titanoboa.

Titanoboa disappeared from the lowland tropics of northern Colombia sometime during the late Paleocene. The exact cause of its extinction remains unclear, though it may have been affected by sudden changes in the Earth’s climate.

Anubis: The Egyptian God of Death

The Ancient Egyptians believed in the immortality of the soul and that the life on Earth was only a pitstop on its journey to a heavenly realm called the Field of Reeds. The souls of the deceased entered an everlasting paradise, free of sickness, disappointment, and death. Before anyone could enter the Field of Reeds, souls traveled from their tombs into the afterlife.

Most souls traversed the treacherous halls of the underworld on foot; but many kings and pharaohs arrived on handcrafted ships, mimicking the sun god Ra, who sailed into the underworld each time the sun set. Each soul gathered in the Hall of Truth, where they were judged by the lord of the underworld, the god of death.

One by one, the god of death placed their hearts on a golden scale and weighed the goodness of each soul against a white feather of truth. If the soul’s heart was heavier than the feather of truth, it fell to the floor, where it was devoured by a god with the head of a crocodile. If its heart was consumed by the crocodile god, the soul ceased to exist. As lord of the underworld and guardian of the Field of Reeds, the god of death played a critical role in the immortality of Ancient Egyptian souls.

'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius - The Complete 12 Books on Stoicism in Today's Language

"Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius is a collection of personal notes written by the Roman Emperor to reflect, realign and reinforce his commitment to stoic virtues. Although not a structured treatise, it is a meditative mantra that often revisits themes for deeper introspection. The audiobook serves as both a soothing, meditative experience and a historical window into stoicism. The beauty of "Meditations" lies in its dual approach, with golden nuggets of wisdom nestled in the emperor's spontaneous streams of thought. While not every facet of stoicism may be agreeable, there is undeniable value in Aurelius's teachings that resonate even today. Chapter 8 offers a concise encapsulation of his philosophy for those with limited time.

In the book, Aurelius reflects on the lessons he learned from his family, mentors and teachers, emphasizing the importance of humility, kindness, simplicity and hard work. He also stresses the value of staying true to oneself, avoiding show-off behavior and being genuine in one's actions. Aurelius highlights the power of family love, truth, fairness and loyalty to one's beliefs. He encourages us to appreciate good teachers, not brush off criticisms and truly adore our children. Overall, "Meditations" serves as a journey through the profound mind of Marcus Aurelius, offering timeless wisdom that can benefit readers today.

What Ate Us?

The Dragon Bone Cave in China is the site where bones of Homo erectus, our predecessor, have been discovered. While the bones suggested cannibalism, researchers found that the marks were made by the giant short-faced hyena, which was a predator throughout the region 400,000 years ago.

Hyenas were capable of consuming bones whole, and their waste was full of excess calcium. This pattern is seen across Eurasia, where caves were more likely to echo with the cackles of hyenas than the laughter of hominins. Our ancestors were just as likely to be prey as predators. Humans tend to sit at the top of the food chain as apex predators, but history and prehistory show that our roles can be reversed.

This is exemplified by the story of John Wade, a young boy who survived a tiger attack in London 150 years ago. Our sense of mastery over the world can cause us to lose our sense of danger and forget that we are part of the food chain.

Every Greek God Explained in 11 Minutes

The video discusses the Greek gods and goddesses, starting with the primordial deities Gaia and Uranus who gave birth to the Titans, including the youngest, Cronus. Cronus overthrew his father, Uranus, and ruled during the Golden Age but was afraid of being overthrown by his children, so he devoured them all except for Zeus. Zeus, secretly raised by Ria, eventually overthrew Cronus and became king of the gods, fighting a war against the Titans with his siblings and ultimately confining many of them to Tartarus. The video also briefly discusses some of the major gods and goddesses, including Hera, Poseidon, and Athena.

Bizarre & Creepy Things The Greeks Did

The ancient Greeks lived in a more open society than we do today and indulged in various pleasures. They believed in things that seem crazy to us today, such as fighting sports like boxing, wrestling, and pantion, which became official Olympic sports in ancient Greece.

The fertility festival is a dedication to Dionysus, the god of debauchery, wine, madness, and physical measure, and involves hundreds of phallic objects. It is celebrated every year in Athens, and its roots go back millennia. Greek medicine began to take shape around 800 BC and became even more advanced as philosophers shaped Greece into a society of thinkers.

However, not all remedies made sense, and the father of medicine, Hippocrates, believed that everything in the body could be explained through four substances called humors. For 2,400 years, the theory of the four humors was the golden standard of medicine, and doctors tried to drain blood from patients to balance their humors.

10 STOIC RULES FOR LIFE | Listen to This, They Will Prioritize You

Have you ever felt the sting of being overlooked by someone you deeply care about? It's as if they disregard your emotions and sentiments, treating you as if you're unimportant. They never seem to put you first, no matter how much love and dedication you show them. But imagine if there was a method to alter this pattern, to make them feel an irresistible urge to value and prioritize you. In this video, we're going to unveil 10 essential rules to transform yourself into a person who is irresistibly engaging and whom others eagerly want in their lives.

The Largest Predator During the Late Cretaceous Wasn't A Dinosaur?

If you to travelled back to North America, anywhere from 83 to 77 million years ago, you would find the lands covered with dinosaurs, many of which were giant. However, they wouldn't be the largest things you could 'run' into, as during those times that largest creature in North America was not a dinosaur, but rather a crocodilian, the Deinosuchus.

Thirty Ancient Artifacts Worth $3.7 Million Were Returned to Greece by the US

In a symbolic gesture of cultural preservation and cooperation, the United States recently returned 30 ancient artifacts to Greece, including an array of marble statues, bronze helmets, breastplates, and other priceless relics. These objects, dating back as far as 4,700 years ago to the Middle Ages, were discovered to have been illicitly removed from Greece, prompting their repatriation to their rightful home.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who played a pivotal role in this restitution, described the returned artifacts as "exquisite" and collectively valued at a staggering $3.7 million (3.39 million euros). The significance of these pieces extends beyond their monetary worth, as they hold a profound cultural and historical resonance for Greece.

Nineteen of the artifacts were voluntarily surrendered by Michael Ward, a New York gallery owner, underscoring the importance of ethical stewardship within the art world. Additionally, three other artifacts were seized from British art dealer Robin Symes, shedding light on the shadowy world of art trafficking. Furthermore, one item was discovered in a storage unit belonging to an undisclosed New York-based private collector, emphasizing the need for vigilance in tracking down stolen antiquities.

Among the returned treasures stands a remarkable Roman-era headless marble statue of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love. This particular statue has been concealed in Symes' storage unit since at least 1999, underscoring the lengths to which some individuals will go to circumvent the law in pursuit of valuable antiquities.

The repatriated artifacts encompass a diverse range of historical periods and artistic styles. They include seven bronze helmets dating from the 6th century B.C. to the 3rd century B.C., two bronze and two iron breastplates used by ancient soldiers, a medieval silver platter, a marble Cycladic figurine from 2,700–2,300 B.C., as well as Mycenaean and Minoan Cretan pottery. These objects collectively represent a tapestry of Greece's rich and multifaceted cultural heritage.

Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni commended the "strong cooperation and hard work" by U.S. and Greek experts that paved the way for the return of these antiquities. Such collaboration highlights the international commitment to rectifying the illicit trade in stolen cultural treasures and safeguarding the world's cultural heritage.

This repatriation effort is not an isolated incident. It follows two similar operations earlier this year, in which 29 antiquities were returned, and a significant repatriation event last year, when 55 works were brought back from New York. These actions reflect a growing global awareness of the need to combat the illegal trade of antiquities and restore stolen heritage to its rightful owners.

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Greece has been a prime target for criminal networks engaged in the trafficking of illegally excavated antiquities, which often command high prices in the international art market. By law, all ancient artifacts found in Greece are considered state property, further emphasizing the importance of repatriating these cultural treasures.

In conclusion, the return of these 30 ancient artifacts to Greece serves as a powerful testament to the enduring value of cultural heritage and the international commitment to protecting it. It is a reminder that the past should not be plundered for profit but preserved for future generations to appreciate and learn from, and it underscores the vital role that cooperation and vigilance play in safeguarding our shared history.

An Ancient Roman Gem With a Magnificent Mosaic: The Luxurious Domus near the Colosseum

In the heart of Rome, beneath the bustling streets and modern cityscape, lies a hidden treasure that has recently come to light: a luxurious Roman home, or domus, near the iconic Colosseum. Italian archaeologists made this extraordinary discovery, revealing a mosaic of unparalleled beauty and historical significance that sheds light on the opulent lifestyles of ancient Roman nobility. In this article, we delve into the details of this remarkable find, exploring its historical context and the captivating scenes depicted in its mosaic.

A Treasure Beneath Rome's Bustling Streets

The domus, which dates back to the second half of the 2nd century BC and the end of the 1st century BC, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture and culture. Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano aptly describes it as "an authentic treasure." Discovered in 2018, the excavation is ongoing, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the opulent world of the past.

The Banquet Hall of a Nobleman

At the heart of the domus lies its main room, a banquet hall styled as a grotto, which was likely used during the warm summer months. The owner of this residence, believed to be a nobleman, would have entertained guests with spectacular water games, thanks to lead pipes cleverly set within the decorated walls.

The Extraordinary Mosaic

What truly sets this discovery apart is an extraordinary wall adorned with a 'rustic' mosaic of unparalleled complexity. This mosaic is a captivating blend of different elements, including shells, Egyptian blue tesserae, precious glass, and minute flakes of white marble. The scenes depicted are a testament to the owner's triumphs, both on land and at sea.

A Triumph of Scenes

The mosaic tells a story of victory and conquest, with depictions of Celtic-type trumpets, warships, and tridents amidst vines and lotus leaves. These symbols allude to a double triumph, suggesting that the owner of the domus achieved greatness both on the battlefield and in naval conquests. Three imposing ships, one of which is proudly raising its sails, are plowing the sea in a landscape with a coastal city and a cliff made of travertine rock. This representation hints at a warlike conquest by the domus's owner, likely an aristocratic figure, perhaps even of senatorial rank.

A Glimpse into Roman Opulence

Adjacent to the mosaic, archaeologists have uncovered white stucco of the highest quality in the reception room. This exquisite find is a testament to the opulence and attention to detail that characterized the homes of the Roman elite.

A Window into Ancient Rome

This domus serves as an early example of "luxuria," the practice of displaying wealth and rank through lavish villas and lifestyles. It also aligns with historical sources that describe the extensive residences of prominent Roman senatorial families in the northwestern area of the Palatine, one of Rome's iconic seven hills.

The discovery of this luxurious Roman home near the Colosseum is not merely an archaeological find; it is a window into the opulent world of ancient Rome. The breathtaking mosaic and the history it represents offer us a glimpse into the lives of those who lived over two millennia ago. As the excavation continues, we eagerly anticipate the day when this evocative piece of history will be accessible to the public, allowing us all to step back in time and marvel at the grandeur of Rome's past.

The Transformation of the Vatican Hill: From Roman Necropolis to St. Peter's Basilica

The Vatican Hill, an emblem of religious significance and an architectural marvel, has witnessed a remarkable transformation through the centuries. Its evolution from a Roman necropolis and the Circus of Caligula to the majestic St. Peter's Basilica is a tale that intertwines history, religion, and art.

The Early Days: Roman Necropolis and Circus

Originally, the Vatican was not a site of Christian significance. In the era of the Roman Empire, it was a necropolis, a city of the dead. This necropolis was located outside the city limits, as Roman law prohibited burial places within the city. The Vatican necropolis lay along the Via Cornelia and housed the tombs of various Roman families, some of which have been unearthed and studied by archaeologists. These findings reveal insights into the burial practices and beliefs of ancient Romans.

Author: Altair4 Multimedia Archeo3D Production

Adjacent to this necropolis was the Circus of Caligula, also known as the Circus of Nero. Constructed in the first century, this circus was a venue for chariot races and other public games, a common form of entertainment in ancient Rome. It is believed that St. Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles, was martyred in this very circus under Emperor Nero's reign.

The Birth of a Sacred Site: Old St. Peter's Basilica

The transformation of the Vatican from a pagan site to a place of Christian worship began with the construction of the Old St. Peter's Basilica. Following Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity and the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious tolerance throughout the empire, the persecution of Christians ceased. Emperor Constantine commissioned the building of a great basilica over the supposed tomb of St. Peter.

The construction of Old St. Peter's Basilica marked a significant shift, both religiously and culturally. The basilica, completed in the 4th century, was an architectural wonder of its time. It boasted a vast nave with aisles, an atrium, and numerous chapels and altars, becoming a major pilgrimage site and a symbol of the burgeoning power of the Christian church.

Author: Altair4 Multimedia Archeo3D Production

The Renaissance Transformation: New St. Peter's Basilica

By the early 16th century, the Old St. Peter’s Basilica had deteriorated significantly. The decision to rebuild led to the construction of the New St. Peter’s Basilica, a project that spanned over a century and involved some of the most renowned architects and artists of the time, including Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

Bramante’s initial plan was for a Greek Cross design, but it was later altered to a Latin Cross by Carlo Maderno. Michelangelo, taking over the project at 71, redesigned the dome, combining architectural skills with his artistic vision. The dome of St. Peter's, completed after his death, remains one of the most iconic features of the Roman skyline.

The interior of the basilica is a celebration of Renaissance and Baroque art, with Bernini's Baldachin standing as a focal point over the papal altar. The basilica’s architecture, art, and its location over the tomb of St. Peter make it a place of unparalleled religious and historical significance.

The Vatican Hill’s transformation from a Roman necropolis and circus to the site of one of Christianity’s most sacred and architecturally significant buildings is a vivid illustration of the interplay between history, religion, and art. St. Peter’s Basilica, in its successive phases, not only symbolizes the growth of Christianity but also stands as a testament to human creativity and devotion through the ages.

5 STOIC THINGS YOU MUST DO EVERY MORNING - Ancient Stoicism

This video discusses how to start each day with a morning routine that reflects the ancient appreciation for existence found in Stoic philosophy.

The video offers three Stoic practices to help begin each day with peace and purpose. The first practice is to meditate on the impermanence of all things, including the fleeting nature of life, to appreciate the beauty and fragility of existence. The second practice is to write down one's thoughts in a diary, which helps with self-reflection, grounding, and healing.

The third practice is to write daily intentions, which focus on the present journey, personal values, and the type of person one wants to be, rather than solely on future goals and outcomes. The video emphasizes that these practices can help one focus on what truly matters in life and avoid wasting time on unimportant things.

By starting each day with a sense of purpose and gratitude, one can celebrate life and make the most of it. The video encourages viewers to turn these practices into a daily routine and to use them as tools for personal growth and self-awareness.

12 Most Mysterious Recent Ancient Finds

Archaeologists have discovered several mysterious artifacts from ancient cultures that they struggle to understand. One of these discoveries includes a sacred bronze tree that was found in China's Sichuan Province. The tree is believed to have been made by the Shu culture, which existed about 3,200 years ago.

The tree was deliberately disturbed between layers of ivory, and its significance is unknown. In Scotland, a collection of artifacts from the witch hunts period, including a set of stone charms and a Gaelic prayer book that belonged to a wizard in the 16th century, were recently put on display for the public. At least 3,800 people were accused of witchcraft in Scotland between the 1560s and the 1730s.

Another artifact is the guinel stargazer idol, one of only 15 Anatolian marble female idols ever found. It is thought to have been illegally looted from Turkey in 1993 and is about 6,000 years old. Lastly, archaeologists discovered two delicately carved and polished stone balls inside a 5,500-year-old tomb on the Scottish island of Orne, and while there are many theories about their use, no conclusive answer has been found.

A day in the rebellion against the Inca Empire

The city of Chan Chan is the former seat of the Chimú Empire in modern-day Peru. The city was conquered by the Incas, and the Chimú king was taken hostage. In the midst of political turmoil, a group of influential people from the city gather secretly to plan a rebellion against the Incas. They ask Maxo, a former soldier who survived the last battle, to join them. Maxo is hesitant, fearing for the safety of the Chimú king and the city's residents. However, the Chimú king's son reveals that there are rumors that the king is already dead, and the time for rebellion is now. Maxo agrees to join the rebellion, and the group plans to attack the Inca soldiers at the old fortress down the road.

The city of Chan Chan was once a trade hub with thousands of artisans, but after the conquest, the Inca rulers took the artisans away to Cusco. The rebellion is successful, but the Inca Empire burns Chan Chan, killing many of its residents and scattering others throughout the empire. The mummified remains of a man from this period were discovered just outside Chan Chan in 2016, but many details of the rebellion and who was behind it remain mysteries.

Are there Descendants of Romans living in China?

A remote village in central China is home to people who claim to be descendants of Romans, with many having Western facial features such as blue eyes and fair hair. The story of these villagers who believe in their Roman ancestry is fascinating, with some believing that they are descendants of Roman soldiers captured during the Battle of Carrhae in 53 BC.

The Romans suffered a brutal defeat against the Persians, with 20,000 soldiers losing their lives and 10,000 being captured. According to some accounts, 10,000 of these captured soldiers were relocated to the eastern border of the Parthian Empire, which makes sense as the Parthians would have wanted to force them to fight for them.

It is believed that they were sent to what is now modern-day Afghanistan to fight against the Eastern Barbarian tribes. Fast forward 17 years, in 36 BC, and the Battle of Gigi was fought between the Chinese and the Xiongnu, with Chinese annals recording mercenaries fighting on the side of the Xiongnu, who used a fish scale formation. The formation impressed the Chinese, who extended an invitation for the strange surviving soldiers to travel with them to China.

Proponents of the theory believe that these strange soldiers using the fish scale formation were actually the surviving legionaries of the Battle of Carrhae who had switched sides from the Parthians to the Xiongnu. If true, the fish scale formation would then have been nothing else than the testudo formation of the Romans.

The Bizarre Life Of China's First Emperor: Qin Shi Huang

Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of ancient China, is known for his construction of the Great Wall and the terracotta soldiers guarding his tomb, but he was also a paranoid ruler obsessed with living forever. He ascended to the throne at 13 years old, and rumors circulated that he was the son of his predecessor's concubine, while his chancellor plotted to install his friend on the throne.

Huang ruthlessly crushed a rebellion by his chancellor and had him executed, along with his entire family, sparing only his mother, whom he banished, and living under house arrest. Huang also eradicated his enemies, exterminating multiple bloodlines and enslaving their armies. He faced multiple assassination attempts, including one from a close associate who infiltrated the court as a lute player. Despite earning a royal pardon, the musician was punished by having his eyes gouged out and later put to death. Huang died at the age of 50, partially due to his obsession with immortality, as he consumed mercury pills and had a group of alchemists searching for the elixir of life.