Mysterious Origins of Patagonia's Native People (Yahgan)

Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago at the foot of Argentina and Chile, is home to one of the most distinct indigenous people in terms of culture and customs.

The history and ancestry of these people, who lived only 600 miles from the nearest point on Antarctica, may be even more mysterious and significant in the history of humanity. The Yagen tribe, who were famous for their complete disregard for the cold weather, lived in the region completely naked despite having fires and small doed shelters. Recently, a researcher claimed that their average body temperature was at least 1 degree higher than that of a European, providing them with cold resistance.

Patagonia, the southern tip of South America, is a vast region that encompasses over 400,000 square miles of Chile and Argentina. Scholars believe that people have lived in Patagonia since the end of the last ice age approximately 12,000 years ago.

The Eastern side of Patagonia is mostly within Argentina's borders and is made up of deciduous forests and open grassland steps bordered by the Atlantic Ocean whereas the Far Western side is made up of dense Evergreen forests including stands of the endangered monkey puzzle.

Archaeologists are now uncovering an intriguing story about the skills, adaptations, and resources required for people to survive there, as the Patagonia region is known for its harsh landscapes, strong winds, and extreme weather.

5 Unexplained Ancient Coincidences

The enigmatic handbag motif appears in ancient carvings across vastly separated civilizations and bears a striking resemblance to modern handbags, yet its true meaning and purpose continue to elude us.

The motif is prevalent in ruins of ancient Mesopotamia, particularly among the Assyrian and Sumerian civilizations, and similar motifs have been found in the ancient alch civilization of meso America, the mai of New Zealand, and megalithic monuments across the globe.

Scholars and historians have given various theories to explain the widespread occurrence of this motif, including the representation of a container of sacred knowledge or a cosmic symbol signifying the transfer of divine wisdom from gods to humans, or the idea of an ancient shared global culture or the influence of a lost advanced civilization.

Megalithic monuments, such as Stonehenge in England and the carak stones in France, are some of the earliest large-scale constructions that bear striking resemblances to one another despite being located on different continents and having been created by different cultures. These ancient builders may have shared a set of underlying construction principles and cultural motivations, with an occurring theme of architectural alignment with celestial bodies.

Explore the secret rooms of the Pantheon

The video features archaeologist Darius Arya taking viewers on a tour of the secret rooms of the Pantheon in Rome. The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman temples, known for its famous front porch and impressive Rotunda with the largest unreinforced concrete dome weighing about 5,000 tons.

However, there are also hidden spaces within the Pantheon, including the Graton, which is a structure constructed to sustain the Rotunda. The Graton consists of radial walls that buttress up the southern side of the Rotunda and is encased in a brick structure.

Arya takes viewers inside the Graton and shows the 7th Century icon dedicated by Pope Bonfice IV to the mother of God, Panaga Hria. Additionally, he shows the Basilica of Neptune, which is a massive structure with a Monumental app that was rebuilt after a fire in 110 AD.

The structure was attributed ultimately to Hadrian, but originally there was the Stow of Neptune in the time of Augustus built by Agria. Arya highlights the architectural features of the Pantheon, including relieving arches that are inserted in the fabric of the walls. The video offers an opportunity to explore the lesser-known aspects of the Pantheon and the history of ancient Rome.

Top 5 Greatest Samurai Last Stands

The video discusses the concept of The Last Stand within the storied history of premodern Japan, and examines several examples of legendary stories of truly heroic Samurai who lived up to the loyalty and Valiant nature that they represent. The video ranks the top five greatest examples of Samurai last stands, discussing who fought, what they were fighting for, and the impact of their actions both in the immediate aftermath and many years to come. The rules followed for choosing these particular stories include: there needs to be a numerically superior enemy attacking a smaller force, at least one key recognizable leader on the defending side, and this key leading figure did not attempt to flee and instead has to have either died in combat or through seppuku.

The top five greatest examples of Samurai last stands are:

1. Minamoto Yorimasa at the first battle of Uji

2. The Taira Clan at Dan no Ura

3. The 47 Ronin at Ako

4. Kusunoki Masashige at Shijonawate

5. Saigo Takamori at Shiroyama

The video also provides historical context for each of these last stands and their significance in the larger context of Samurai history. Enjoy!

12 Most Amazing And Unexpected Underwater Finds

Despite thousands of years of human existence on Earth, much of the ocean remains unexplored, leaving the possibility for new and exciting discoveries.

Archaeologists recently found the remains of a medieval soldier at the bottom of Lake Avea in Lithuania, complete with personal possessions, including knives, a sword, uniform, and leather boots. The discovery provides insight into the military forces of the past, with the sword allowing archaeologists to estimate the discovery dates back to the 16th century.

In November 2020, scientists discovered an ancient lake bed more than a mile below the ice in Greenland, which could contain bacteria and other information about the world's past. However, drilling through the ice is currently nearly impossible and expensive.

In 2018, scientists announced the discovery of the world's largest underwater cave in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, measuring 215 miles and containing over 100 artifacts. The cave system may have been familiar to the Maya, who lived in the area.

The US Navy sunk German uboat 166 in the Gulf of Mexico during WWII, and the well-preserved wreck was discovered during a pipeline survey in 2001. However, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig disaster in 2010 accelerated the disintegration process of the wreck.

The wreck of the Japanese cargo ship Fuji Maru, built in 1938, is also a popular dive site at Chuuk Lagoon in the Central Pacific Ocean.

What This Man Discovered Inside A Cave Shocked The World!

The world's most intriguing natural formations, caves, offer a glimpse into our planet's rich past. This video highlights three recent discoveries that have shocked the world in terms of their historical significance and mysterious nature.

- Witch marks: The largest cluster of witch marks in British caves were discovered at Creswell Craigs in Nottinghamshire. Initially thought to be graffiti, these apotropaic marks are now recognized as important artifacts that shed light on historical beliefs and practices aimed at warding off evil spirits.

- Mysterious figures: Alabama's 19th unnamed cave has revealed a treasure trove of cave art that includes unique anthropomorphs depicting supernatural beings linked to Native American beliefs in a tiered universe of unseen spirit realms. The absence of direct links to known characters raises intriguing questions about the cultural narrative embedded in these glyphs.

- Neanderthal remains: Nine Neanderthal remains were unearthed in the Guari Cave located southeast of Rome, shedding light on a grizzly fate for these ancient human relatives who fell victim to hyena attacks. The discovery of traces of vegetables alongside human and animal remains showcased the diverse diet of these Neanderthals.

These cave discoveries provide significant insights into the historical and cultural beliefs of our ancestors and offer a glimpse into the mysteries of our planet's past.

Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun: I entered 30,000-year-old Tunnels under the Oldest Pyramid

The Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun has been the subject of internet rumors since 2005, with claims that it is 30,000 years old and twice the size of the iconic Egyptian pyramids. These claims have stirred up controversy, with some experts defending the discovery as a real pyramid, while others remain skeptical.

Mainstream historians often underestimate human capabilities of the past, leading to dismissals of structures that we cannot replicate today. The Bosnian pyramid has been disputed since its discovery, with some arguing that it is a natural formation, while others insist it is a man-made structure.

Over 50 archaeologists and professors have defended the discovery, while others have tried to stop excavations. To be recognized as a legitimate man-made pyramid, the Bosnian Pyramid must meet four criteria: geometry, science of construction, material analysis, and age.

The Bosnian Pyramid meets all of these criteria, as it is a square pyramid with equilateral triangular sides, has evidence of artificially made concrete blocks that date back 32,000 years, and has compressive strength that ranges from two to four times harder than normal concrete used in residential buildings. The pyramid's buried state is likely due to cataclysmic floods that occur in cycles at the end of ice ages.

6 Neanderthal DNA physical traits in modern humans

Most modern humans outside of Africa have between 1 and 4% Neanderthal DNA, with this DNA having considerable effects on physical and psychological traits today. Physical signs of carrying Neanderthal DNA include light skin and hair, baldness, lack of back hair, obesity, elongated skull shape, and height.

Neanderthal DNA affects the composition of fat throughout the body and how much of it is stored, and may help break down fat to use as energy faster. While being bald and easily sunburnt may be negative traits inherited from Neanderthals, the same gene that causes this also makes it more likely for skin and hair to be lighter in color, which helped absorb vitamin D in cloudy regions.

The shape of one's skull is a good physical marker for Neanderthal DNA, with less globular and more elongated skulls being a sign of Neanderthal ancestry. Height may also be influenced by a gene that decreases the risk of schizophrenia and is highly influenced by Neanderthal heritage. DNA tests can also show the amount of Neanderthal DNA one has and provide information about one's genetic code, paternal and maternal haplogroups, health, pharmacological, and nutritional information unique to one's DNA.

The Impossible Architecture of Étienne-Louis Boullée

Etienne Louis Boullée was an 18th-century French architect who became famous for his designs that were never built, but were of such a vast scale that they would have been impossible to build in real life. Boullée developed a distinctive style of abstract geometric forms and produced a series of designs illustrating his ideas, making up an almost encyclopedic representation of the necessary institutions for an ideal State. While only one of his designs, the Hotel Alexandre, still exists, his visionary nature has earned him his place in history and still inspires architects today.

Boullée was a reluctant architect who originally dreamed of becoming a painter but turned to architecture at his father's insistence. It was rather as a theorist and a teacher that he achieved lasting influence, and he worked as a professor for over 50 years of his life. Boullée's call was to create buildings that would instinctively make us feel in a way that corresponded to their nature or purpose and that would shape moral values in the public. His designs often had little or no precedent in the past, and he sought to discover the properties of volumes and their precise emotional effects on humans. Boullée wrote down his theories in a book called "Essay on the Art of Architecture," in which he explained his various designs.

7 STOIC THINGS YOU MUST DO EVERY NIGHT (MUST WATCH) | STOICISM

The ancient philosophy of stoicism is a practical way of living that can help people overcome challenges, cope with stress, and achieve their goals.

One effective way to apply stoicism in daily life is to develop nightly habits that help reflect on actions, learn from mistakes, and prepare for the next day. Seven simple but powerful nightly habits of a stoic can make individuals more resilient, calm, and focused.

The first habit is to review the day by asking simple questions such as what was done well, what was done poorly, what was learned, and how to improve tomorrow. Writing down the answers creates a record of progress, challenges, and growth.

The second habit is to meditate on mortality by imagining it as the last night on earth and asking powerful questions such as how would life be remembered, what would be regretted, and what would be proud of or grateful for.

The third habit is to practice gratitude by writing down three things that were good about the day.

The fourth habit is to plan for the next day by prioritizing the most important tasks.

The fifth habit is to read or listen to something inspiring or educational.

The sixth habit is to disconnect from technology and engage in calming activities.

The seventh habit is to get enough sleep by setting a bedtime routine and sticking to it.

Applying these nightly habits can help individuals become more aware of themselves, aligned with their values, and resilient in the face of uncertainty.

12 Most Mysterious Ancient Technologies Scientists Still Can't Explain

Our ancient ancestors were highly inventive, and some of their inventions were so advanced that we still don't fully understand them today. Examples of these inventions include Inuit storytelling maps, snow goggles, the Syum Tunnel, and forced draft shaft furnaces.

The Inuit maps were used by hunters to tell stories of their fishing and hunting experiences, while snow goggles were used to protect against the glare of the sun and snow. The Syum Tunnel was an artificial water tunnel carved in the city of David in the 8th century BCE, and it was most likely built during a time when Jerusalem was anticipating an attack from the Assyrians.

Finally, the forced draft shaft furnaces were wind-powered iron smelting facilities that might have made a significant contribution to South Asia's early mastery of steel production. These inventions demonstrate the ingenuity of our ancient ancestors and their ability to create advanced technologies with limited resources.

Top 3 Neanderthal Mysteries Solved in 2023 - And One that Was Not

New research on the Roche-Cotard cave in France has revealed evidence of Neanderthal artistic expression. French archaeologist Jean Claude Marque first discovered fine lines on the cave walls in 1974, which he suspected were of human origin. Recent analysis using modern methods has confirmed that the marks were made with human fingers and are not tool marks. The cave also yielded other intriguing artifacts, including an object resembling a human or animal face and a potential oil lamp. These findings challenge the traditional view of Neanderthals as mentally inferior and suggest a closer cognitive resemblance to modern humans. The study was led by Dr. Gabrielle Russo and provides groundbreaking insights into the hunting practices and cultural significance of apex predators to Neanderthals.

Another study examined Neanderthal hunting practices and found that they hunted apex predators such as cave lions. The discovery of bones with cut marks and spear thrusts provided evidence of Neanderthal hunting practices. This study contributes to the understanding of behavioral similarities between Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens, indicating complex Neanderthal behaviors and possibly the basis for later cultural developments in Homo sapiens.

A study on Neanderthal diet and use of marine resources revealed significant aspects of their dietary habits in central Germany and Coastal Portugal. Researchers found strategic repetitive cut marks on elephant bones suggesting that Neanderthals carefully butchered these large mammals for consumption. Additionally, the study found evidence of the regular consumption of marine resources, indicating a varied diet.

In this video we look at how the scientific community was able to solve some mysteries surrounding Neanderthals, these relate to their cognitive and hunting skills and also abstract thoughts. One mystery remain elusive and continues to challenge the scientific world.

Top 5 Prehistoric Discoveries of 2023

Archaeology is a constantly evolving field with new discoveries, methods, and studies emerging every year. In 2020, several groundbreaking prehistoric discoveries were made, including a lavish burial of a woman known as the "Ivory Prince" at the Monumental Iberian Megasite of Valencina, suggesting that women held powerful positions in Iberian society.

Studies also challenged the Clovis first hypothesis and provided evidence of early human presence in the Americas, with the discovery of modified giant sloth bones and fossilized footprints dating back 21,500 years in White Sands, New Mexico.

In France, the oldest evidence of European archery was uncovered with the discovery of small flint arrowheads dating back 54,000 years ago. In China, the discovery of the HLD 6 skull proposed the existence of a new human lineage.

Finally, in Zambia, a wooden structure dating back 476,000 years was found, providing the oldest example of structural engineering. These discoveries offer new insights into prehistoric societies and the evolution of humans.

When History Repeats: A Tale of Two Mothers

The video explores the lives of two noblewomen, Julia Agripina and Irene of Athens, who married emperors and found themselves in positions of power. Agripina, the great-granddaughter of Emperor Augustus, married her uncle Claudius and was seen as a threat to his rule due to her son's potential claim to the throne.

She may have even killed Claudius to ensure her son's succession, although the truth is unknown. Irene, a Greek noblewoman, married Emperor Leo IV, who was opposed to religious iconography, while Irene and her family were in favor of it. Their marriage was strained, but Irene became Empress Regent after Leo's death and ruled on behalf of her young son. However, she faced plots and chaos and was eventually overthrown by her own son.

While the video presents alternate histories of these women's lives, it also promotes Keeps, a hair loss prevention medication that delivers affordable FDA-approved hair loss treatments to men.

Scientifically Dating the Giza Pyramids

The Giza Pyramids are the most studied ancient structures in the world, and their age is not debated by scholars. However, their origins remain mysterious and have been challenged by independent researchers. To date the pyramids, archaeology, historical writings, and scientific methods have been used.

The rich archaeology of the Giza Plateau is enough to place the construction of the pyramids in the fourth dynasty of the Old Kingdom. The Great Pyramid belongs to Khufu, the second pyramid belongs to Khafra, and the third pyramid belongs to Menkaure.

However, some say the evidence is circumstantial and not proof that they built them. Written historical sources attribute the monuments of Giza to Khufu, Khafra, and Menkaure, but they were written hundreds of years later, making them less credible sources. Scientific methods, such as surface luminescence dating and radiocarbon dating, have also been used to date the pyramids.

Surface luminescence dating was used on the Menkaure pyramid, and the results were published in 2014. The method works by erasing geological luminescence on stone surfaces through solar radiation. The contact between the stones and the mortar also provides a date range. Despite using multiple methods, not everyone agrees on who built the pyramids.

The Ongoing Saga of the “Binders of Phaleron” in Greece: 78 Chained Human Skeletons Are Still Being Rescued

In a striking juxtaposition of ancient history and contemporary conservation efforts, the "Binders of Phaleron" continue to unravel their secrets under the watchful eyes of modern archaeology. Discovered in 2016 in Athens during excavations at the Esplanade of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, these 78 chained human skeletons have become a focal point of intrigue and scientific inquiry, shedding light on a turbulent period in ancient Greek history.

Unearthing the Past

The skeletons, dating back to the latter half of the 7th century BC, present a macabre tableau. Men executed for reasons yet unknown; their remains were interred in chains, grouped into three distinct clusters. The first group portrays a haunting scene—skeletons still bound by their shackles. With remains either tied by hands or shackled at the wrists, the second and third clusters tell a slightly different story. These bindings speak volumes, hinting at a society deeply engaged in punitive practices or perhaps ritualistic activities.

Retention of slopes using polyurethane foam

The Conservation Challenge

The task of preserving these ancient remains has been nothing short of herculean. Under the supervision of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Piraeus and Islands and observed by the Greek Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, the conservation work has been methodical and meticulous. The proximity of the site to the water table, coupled with fluctuating humidity levels and the presence of salts, posed significant risks to the integrity of the osteological material. This necessitated the temporary relocation of the finds in early 2023, using a combination of iron rails and crane vehicles—a delicate operation that underscores the complexities involved in archaeological conservation.

Technological Integration in Archaeological Preservation

The relocated skeletons are now housed in a specially designed temporary enclosure. This setup includes state-of-the-art humidification, dehumidification, and air-conditioning systems closely monitored to ensure optimal environmental conditions. Electronic recorders continuously track these conditions, highlighting the role of modern technology in preserving our ancient past. The preventive and life-saving maintenance operations conducted on the skeletal material are testament to the painstaking efforts invested in safeguarding these historical treasures.

Clusters 1 and 2 have been moved to their temporary location on a concrete slab underpass

Future Plans: Bridging the Past and Present

The Recovery Fund is funding the final stage of this enormous project, which entails the construction of a museum shell with a budget of about 6.5 million euros. This structure, blending seamlessly into the Esplanade, will provide a permanent home for the "Binders of Faliro." The design cleverly balances the aesthetic integration of the museum with the functionality required for the preservation and display of the skeletons. The planned underground space will protect the skeletal material, while the ground floor will cater to visitors, complete with surveillance and operational facilities.

Supporting the collapsing bones with a mixture of silica sand and sand from the excavation site

A Window into Ancient Societies

The ongoing work on the "Binders of Faliro" is not just a tale of archaeological discovery and conservation; it's a narrative that spans millennia. It connects us, through the lens of modern scientific techniques and historical inquiry, to a past that is both mysterious and revealing. This project is a testament to the enduring curiosity of humanity, our desire to understand our history, and our commitment to preserving it for future generations. As this endeavor continues, it serves as a powerful reminder of how the past, though silent in its physical form, can speak volumes through the careful study and preservation of its remnants.

Aigai, Macedonia: The Restored Palace of Philip II was Inaugurated by the Greek Prime Minister

The Rebirth of a Macedonian Marvel: Philip II's Palace in Aigai

The long-awaited inauguration of Philip II's restored palace took place today in a magnificent ceremony at the Polycentric Museum of Aigai, and among other dignitaries, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was present. This momentous occasion marks the culmination of a meticulous restoration journey, resurrecting the palace from the depths of time to its former grandeur. The palace, an architectural marvel just a few kilometers from the new museum, stands as the largest edifice in classical Greece and a testament to Macedonian heritage. The assassination of Alexander's father, Philip II, overshadowed his coronation here. The site offers a panoramic view over the Macedonian plain, standing as a beacon of ancient civilization.

The resurrection of this grand palace began in earnest in 2007. Under the stewardship of the Imathian Antiquities Ephorate, and thanks to 20 million euros of funding received during the periods of 2007–2013 and 2014–2020, the project was a colossal undertaking. Angeliki Kottaridis, the guiding force behind this project, despite her recent retirement, remained unwavering in her dedication to archaeology. The restoration process was complex and challenging, with the revelation in 2013 of an ancient landslide that had contributed to the site's initial destruction. This discovery necessitated a major technical project to stabilize the area, which was only completed in 2018. The pandemic posed further delays, but the restoration resumed with vigor in May last year.

Dubbed the "Parthenon of Macedonia," this palatial structure, covering an impressive 15 acres, epitomizes the zenith of Philip II's architectural aspirations. It represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Greek architecture. German scholar Wolfram Hefner was the first to accurately date this magnificent structure, coining its nickname to underline its significance. Angeliki Kottaridis offers an intriguing comparison between the Parthenon and Philip's palace, noting the latter's size, multifunctional nature, and accessibility to the public, in contrast to the Parthenon's primarily religious function.

The palace was likely the brainchild of the architect Pytheos, embodying an avant-garde design for its era. It was conceived not just as a residence but as a multifaceted public space, serving various civic functions. This included being a political hub, a court, a religious sanctuary, and a cultural center for philosophical discourse and literary exchanges. It also housed common dining areas and sports facilities for the youth.

The site also boasts several other significant attractions:

1. The Museum of Royal Tombs: Constructed in the 1990s, this museum serves as a protective cover for the royal tombs of the Philip II cluster, showcasing the exquisite treasures unearthed by Manolis Andronikos.

2. The Archaeological Park of the Vergina Necropolis: Spanning nearly 550 acres, this park, introduced to the public in 2021, offers a unique blend of archaeological exploration and natural beauty.

3. The State-of-the-Art Museum Building: Inaugurated a year ago by the prime minister, this modern facility, costing 18 million euros and covering 146,000 m2, has quickly become a cultural landmark.

4. The Ancient Theater and Other Monuments: The ongoing restoration of the ancient theater, the listed church of Agios Dimitrios, and other individual monuments add to the site's historical richness.

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The ceremonial event for the inauguration was led by Georgia Stratoulis, the new head of the Imathia Ephorate of Antiquities, marking a new chapter in the appreciation and understanding of Macedonia's glorious past. The opening of the palace to the public heralds a renewed interest in the Hellenic world, offering a tangible connection to a pivotal era in human history.

12 Most Incredible Archaeological Finds

Archaeologists have made several recent discoveries, including the eighth sarcophagus of a protector of the Divine Flank, the first of its kind found in Turkey and the only one still in possession of grave goods and the bones of its occupant.

A 2nd-century marble funerary altar dedicated to a 13-year-old girl has also been found in Rome, while modernising work on an electrical substation in Mexico City led to the discovery of an ancient Aztec house dating back to the late post-classic period.

Finally, the unusually clear waters of Lake Michigan have enabled people to see many of the dozens (if not hundreds) of shipwrecks at its bottom, including the James McBride, which sank in 1857, and the Rising Sun, which sunk in 1917, and was owned by a religious cult called The House of David.

Eight Extinct Animals the Greeks & Romans Saw

The Roman Coliseum originally had a 9 ft high barrier separating the arena from the spectators, but following a tiger attack, the barrier was raised to 15 ft. Many exotic animals were used in the Coliseum during the Roman period, some of which are now extinct.

Tigers were native to a vast area ranging from Eastern Turkey to Southeast Asia, with the Caspian tiger being the most likely animal featured in Roman games. The Caspian tiger was officially declared extinct in 2003, but its population had been declining since the 19th century.

The population would have been significantly higher during the Roman period, with most imported tigers being female and smaller. Capturing female tigers involved sneaking into their dens and stealing their cubs.

The barber lion, a population of Asiatic lions native to North Africa, was also used in the Coliseum for entertainment and executing condemned criminals. The barbery lion went extinct in the 1960s and differed from African lions in size, with males weighing between 350-420 lb and females weighing between 220-285 lb.

Ancient Egypt Explained in 12 Minutes

Covering a broad range of topics within its limited timeframe, the video likely delves into the geographical significance of Egypt, emphasizing the crucial role played by the Nile River. Viewers can expect insights into the governance structure led by Pharaohs, their divine status, and the elaborate religious beliefs and practices that shaped the society. Furthermore, the video might touch upon the construction of iconic structures like the pyramids, shedding light on the technological and cultural achievements of ancient Egyptians. Daily life, cultural practices, and the eventual decline of this remarkable civilization may also be featured, providing a comprehensive yet concise overview of Ancient Egypt's rich history and cultural legacy.