Exploring the Roman Legacy: 8 Best Preserved Roman Buildings Outside Italy

The legacy of ancient Rome extends far beyond the Italian peninsula, with impressive examples of Roman architecture and engineering scattered across the globe. From aqueducts to temples, these well-preserved structures offer a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of the Roman Empire. Join us as we embark on a virtual journey to explore the eight best-preserved Roman buildings outside Italy.

1. Pont du Gard, France

Our first stop takes us to the stunning Pont du Gard in southern France. This well-preserved Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to Roman engineering prowess. Built in the 1st century CE, this three-tiered structure once spanned the Gardon River, carrying water to the city of Nîmes.

2. Porta Nigra, Trier, Germany

Moving on to Trier, Germany, we encounter the Porta Nigra, a significant preserved Roman building. This imposing city gate, constructed from large sandstone blocks without mortar, has stood for over 1,800 years, serving as a striking example of Roman city fortifications.

3. Temple to the Wine God Bacchus, Baalbek, Lebanon

Our next destination takes us to Baalbek, Lebanon, where we find the well-preserved temple dedicated to the wine god Bacchus. This impressive structure, part of the ancient city of Heliopolis, is renowned for its intricate carvings and grandeur, presenting a fascinating blend of Roman architecture and local influences.

4. Aspendos Arena, Turkey

In southern Turkey, the Aspendos Arena stands as one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. With its remarkable acoustics and stunning architectural design blending Roman and Greek styles, this ancient amphitheater continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty.

5. The Temple of Augustus and Livia, Vienne, France

While traveling to Vienne, France, we encounter the Temple of Augustus and Livia. This exceptionally preserved Roman temple, dedicated to the emperor Augustus and his wife Livia, showcases exquisite Corinthian columns and intricate friezes, offering a glimpse into the religious and artistic practices of ancient Roman Gaul.

6. Aqueduct of Segovia, Spain

The Aqueduct of Segovia in Spain stands as a marvel of Roman engineering and remains one of the best-preserved ancient aqueducts. Constructed without the use of mortar, this imposing structure spans the city, showcasing the mastery of Roman hydraulic technology.

7. Theater of Orange, France

In the town of Orange, France, the Theatre of Orange stands as an exceptional example of Roman theatrical architecture. With its well-preserved stage wall and striking facade, this ancient theatre continues to host performances, linking the past with the present through its enduring cultural significance.

8. Roman Theater of Bosra, Syria

Our final destination brings us to the Roman Theater of Bosra in Syria, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of Roman influence in the region. This well-preserved theatre, adorned with ornate carvings and architectural details, stands as a symbol of cultural exchange and artistic expression in antiquity.

In conclusion, these eight best-preserved Roman buildings outside Italy not only reflect the architectural and engineering achievements of ancient Rome but also serve as invaluable links to our shared human heritage. Through careful preservation and continued exploration, these remarkable structures offer us insight into the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire and its lasting impact on the world.

AI Reveals Secrets Behind Raphael's Madonna of the Rose Painting

As the art world continues to evolve, the intersection of technology and artistic analysis has opened up new avenues for understanding the works of the Old Masters. In a recent revelation that has sent shockwaves through the art community, artificial intelligence (AI) has cast doubt on the authorship of a famous Raphael painting, the "Madonna della Rosa" (Madonna of the Rose). Experts from the Universities of Nottingham, Bradford, and Stanford conducted a deep feature analysis that led to this ground-breaking discovery.

The Madonna della Rosa, a cherished masterpiece currently residing in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain, has captivated art enthusiasts for centuries. While most of the painting is attributed to the illustrious Raphael, AI-driven analysis has raised questions about the authenticity of Joseph's face within the artwork.

Professor Hassan Ugail, the Director of the Centre for Visual Computing and Intelligent Systems at the University of Bradford, spearheaded this pioneering research. His algorithm, boasting a remarkable 98 percent accuracy rate, distinguishes authentic works by Raphael from others. This algorithmic marvel can decisively determine whether a painting is a genuine Raphael or not.

When the Madonna della Rosa was subjected to this scrutiny, the results were far from definitive. While the rest of the composition bore the unmistakable mark of Raphael, Joseph's face emerged as an anomaly, suggesting that it might not be the handiwork of the master himself.

This AI-driven approach to analyzing art represents a significant leap forward in the objective and quantifiable classification of painted imagery. It promises to complement traditional techniques, such as spectroscopy, in future investigations of this nature. Furthermore, this methodology can be adapted to assess works by other artists, opening up exciting possibilities for further research in the field.

The research has culminated in a peer-reviewed paper titled "Deep Transfer Learning for Visual Analysis and Attribution of Paintings by Raphael." The study's authors, Professor Ugail, Professor Christopher Brooke of the University of Nottingham, Emeritus Professor Howell Edwards of the University of Bradford, and Adjunct Professor David G. Stork of Stanford University, recently published it in the Heritage Science journal.

To delve deeper into the historical context of the Madonna della Rosa, we turn to Howell Edwards, Emeritus Professor of Molecular Spectroscopy at the University of Bradford. Painted around 1517/18, early connoisseurs initially attributed the entirety of the artwork to Raphael. However, over time, doubts arose, and experts, including Johann David Passavant, began to suggest that the painting's execution might be shared between Raphael and his workshop. In Spain, the original attribution remained unchallenged.

The AI analysis, however, has provided conclusive evidence that while the figures of Madonna, Christ Child, and St. John are undeniably the work of Raphael, St. Joseph's portrayal differs significantly and is likely the product of another artist, possibly Giulio Romano, as proposed by experts like Professor Jurg Meyer zur Capellen.

This isn't the first time the research team has harnessed AI in the world of art analysis. Previously, they applied artificial intelligence-assisted facial recognition to a mystery painting known as the de Brécy Tondo, revealing its undeniable connection to Raphael's style.

Professor Ugail emphasizes that AI is not replacing human expertise but rather enhancing it. Authenticating a work of art involves considering various aspects, from provenance to pigments and condition. AI serves as a valuable tool in this multifaceted process.

Stanford University Adjunct Professor David G. Stork, a pioneer in applying computer vision to art history, concurs that this analysis is a vital component of the authentication process. He cautions that while computer methods can enhance connoisseurship, they must be utilized with a deep understanding of the historical context of art.

In conclusion, the marriage of AI and art analysis offers exciting prospects for art historians, providing a fresh lens through which to explore the authenticity of masterpieces. As technology continues to advance, the world of art scholarship is on the brink of a transformative era where human expertise and computational power work hand in hand to unlock the mysteries of the past.

Exploring 8 Well-Preserved Roman Cities

In the cradle of ancient civilizations, amidst the sands of North Africa and the historic landscapes of Rome and Jordan, lie remarkable vestiges of the mighty Roman Empire. These well-preserved cities stand testament to the grandeur of an ancient superpower, capturing the essence of daily life, architectural wonders, and historical significance of the Roman era.

Shemilla, located in Algeria, stands as a silent witness to a bygone era. Established as a Roman colony during Emperor Nerva's reign, the city retains its Roman heritage while bearing witness to its eventual abandonment following the fall of the Roman Empire. Eerily, Shemilla never saw reoccupation by Muslims, further enhancing its historical allure.

Meanwhile, in the ancient capital of the Numidian kingdom, Dougga thrived under Roman rule, boasting an array of remarkable public buildings. Offering exceptional insight into daily life in ancient Rome in Africa, Dougga's well-preserved remnants stand as a testament to the architectural prowess and societal structures of the time.

Transitioning to Europe, Ostia, Rome's first colony, emerges as a poignant reminder of Rome's maritime power. As a major port city with a peak population of 100,000 inhabitants, Ostia played a crucial role in trade and commerce. Its well-preserved structures, including apartments and public facilities, provide a window into the vibrant life of an ancient port city.

In the Levant, Jerash, serving as a well-preserved Roman city in Jordan, illuminates the empire's influence in the region. Founded as a Hellenistic city in the 2nd century BC and developed during the Roman period, Jerash faced eventual abandonment due to plundering by the Sassanid Persians, the arrival of the Arabs, and devastating earthquakes, thus ending its Roman era glory.

The tragic tale of Herculaneum rekindles the memory of Mount Vesuvius's devastating eruption in 79 A.D. Submerged beneath volcanic ash, the town has yielded some of the best-preserved buildings from the Roman era, including intact wood furniture, wall decorations, mosaics, frescoes, and a statue with original paint. The well-preserved remnants offer a vivid glimpse into the opulence and tragedy of ancient life.

Tingis, a well-preserved Roman city with a remarkable grid system, takes us back to the coasts of North Africa. Founded as a military colony by Emperor Trajan, Tingis prospered throughout the Roman era before facing partial destruction during the Vandal invasion in the 5th century and its final downfall with the Arab invasion.

Leptis Magna, hailed as a significant trading post with a natural harbor, thrived under the rule of native emperor Septimus Severus. Its wealth and prominence under his reign led to the embellishment of the city with monumental structures, emphasizing both its economic and cultural significance during the Roman Empire.

Lastly, Pompeii—buried under ash by the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius—has been meticulously unearthed to reveal its ancient splendor. Founded in the 8th century BC and influenced by the Greeks, Pompeii has been a subject of major excavations since its rediscovery in the 16th century, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into ancient Roman city life.

As we stand amid the echoes of history, these cities stand as remarkable testaments to the grandeur and far-reaching influence of ancient Rome. Their careful preservation and ongoing exploration offer insights into the daily lives, architectural marvels, and societal structures of one of history's most significant civilizations.

In conclusion, exploring these well-preserved Roman cities in North Africa, Europe, and the Levant is a journey through time, unveiling the tapestry of ancient life and the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire. Each city has a unique story to tell, weaving a narrative that transcends centuries, carrying us back to the glory and tragedy of a civilization that shaped the world.

Egypt's Dark Age: The Era That Nearly Destroyed Ancient Egypt

Egypt's Dark Age: Survival, Revival, and the Rise of Thebes

Ancient Egypt, a land of incalculable wonder and profound history, bore witness to darker times over the ages. The foundation of this illustrious civilization was in grave danger as it descended into a dark age rife with conflict, civil war, famine, and catastrophic events. However, the indomitable spirit of Egypt prevailed, leading to a revival fueled by resilience and resilient leadership.

Significant occurrences that highlighted the difficulties the ancient civilization faced marked Egypt's descent into the dark age. Symbolic connections between life and death were epitomized by King Unas' 750-meter-long causeway, bridging life-giving forces from the valley below to the city of the dead. The scenes depicted on this causeway served as a poignant reflection of both the bounty and the dark forces at work during this tumultuous period.

Leadership challenges further exacerbated Egypt's plight. The longest-reigning king, King Pepi II, had an aging reign that cast doubt on the traditional idea of the Pharaoh as a living deity. The subsequent weakening of the monarchy and failing harvests led to rapid decline, instigating a loss of faith in the ruling elite and state-run religion.

Amid these trying times, the ancient Egyptians resorted to mystical artifacts and magical practices to exert control over their destiny. Living individuals utilized death masks to transform their appearance and tap into the hidden forces of the gods. Curses and spells inscribed on pots and figurines became increasingly prevalent, offering a glimpse into the intimate and personal nature of magical practices during Egypt's dark ages.

The power vacuum left in the wake of the decline of the central government saw the rise of Ankhtifi, whose modest tomb revealed his exploitation of the prevailing chaos. His depiction of the king as a mere footnote emphasized his ascendancy, echoing the prevalent upheaval and the erosion of traditional power structures.

Notably, the desecration of royal tombs severed Egypt's physical link to its ancient past, irreversibly damaging the country's historical lineage. However, amidst this turmoil, Thebes emerged as a beacon of hope, with its warlords seeking to reunite Egypt as a united land. The strategic significance of Thebes, with its rich farmland and reverence for the war god Montu, set the stage for a pivotal turning point in Egypt's history.

The key figure of Mentuhotep, whose unification signaled the beginning of the Middle Kingdom and made Thebes the spiritual center of Egypt, embodied Thebes' resurgence. The goddess Hathor's influence during this era is evident in the architectural choices for Mentuhotep's tomb complex, symbolizing a cultural renaissance amidst the prevailing darkness.

Furthermore, as the Middle Kingdom dawned, the Egyptian mindset turned towards smaller and more intimate objects for afterlife preparation. Cheaper and more practical alternatives to the elaborate scenes and texts found in Old Kingdom tombs emerged, including wooden models designed to provide the deceased with perpetual sustenance in the afterlife.

The militaristic campaigns into Nubia by kings like Sesostris III for resources and control served as an example of the Middle Kingdom's shift in emphasis toward national security and wealth creation. The construction of massive fortifications like Buhen along the Nile demonstrated the kingdom's commitment to safeguarding its interests and expansion.

The foreign rule of the Hyksos further plunged Egypt into turmoil, leading to tension and conflict. However, the Thebans retaliated against the Hyksos with advanced weaponry, including the composite bow, indicative of their determination to reclaim their land and independence.

The Hyksos’ legacy ultimately led to the rise of Thebes, with the revival of royal power mirrored in the ascendance of the local god Amun and his cult center at the temple of Karnak. The emergence of a new breed of powerful Egyptian rulers, depicted as superheroes on temple walls, marked a renewed chapter in the tumultuous history of ancient Egypt.

Despite the tribulations faced during the dark ages, ancient Egypt's survival and eventual revival, coupled with the rise of Thebes as a formidable power, exemplify the timeless resilience and unyielding spirit of a civilization that forged indelible legacies despite the encroaching shadows.

The Evolution of Human Skin Color

Migration and Genetic Mutations from Africa to the rest of the world

Human skin color is a result of evolutionary processes that have unfolded over tens of thousands of years. Early humans in Africa had dark skin, which provided them with protection against harmful UV radiation in sunny savannah grasslands. However, as human migration out of Africa began around 60–70,000 years ago, diverse skin colors emerged due to genetic mutations and natural selection.

The migration of humans out of Africa was not a simple one-way flow; rather, it involved multiple migration events and movements back and forth between different regions. Notably, significant migrations started around 60–70,000 years ago, leading to the spread of humans across the Eurasian landmass. Evidence suggests that humans began leaving Africa as early as 120,000 years ago, but the most significant migrations related to skin color diversity occurred around 60–70,000 years ago.

Around 70,000 years ago, humans underwent a stable expansion into the Northwest Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East. It was during this period that a mutation occurred in the kit ligand gene, impacting melanocyte production and the skin pigment molecule melanin. As different populations migrated from the Northwest Arabian Peninsula, they carried this mutation with them.

The genetic mutation affecting human skin color is present in modern humans of Middle Eastern, Asian, North Central, South American, or European ancestry. Conversely, this mutation is absent in people with sub-Saharan African ancestry. Additionally, genetic mutations in European populations led to selective advantages for lighter skin in regions with long, dark winters.

Several key genetic mutations have been identified as crucial factors in the development of diverse skin colors. These include mutations in the slc24a5 and slc45a2 transporter proteins, which played significant roles in melanin production in European populations. Similarly, the population migrating out of the Arabian Peninsula experienced a genetic change in the mfsd12 gene, leading to a shift in skin pigment production towards feo-melanin.

As these mutations continued to unfold, genetic changes occurred independently in both European and Asian ancestral human populations, such as mutations to the Oca2 and mc1r genes. These genetic mutations and natural selection eventually led to a linear pattern between human skin color and latitude. Lighter skin became beneficial in northern latitudes with less sun exposure, while modern humans at low latitudes tended to have darker skin to protect against intense sunlight.

The evolution of human skin color is deeply meaningful and serves as a basic biological trait for the human species. It is intricately tied to cultural richness and the weight of historical atrocities, yet it remains a fundamental biological trait that has been constant throughout the existence of humans. These evolutionary processes in response to environmental factors have given rise to the diverse array of skin colors that we see in the world today, underscoring the dynamic relationship between genetics, environment, and human adaptation.

Why did Christianity Fail in Asia while Succeeding in Europe?

Christianity is the largest religion in the world, with over 2 billion followers, but it has struggled to gain a foothold in certain parts of the world, particularly in Asia.

The religion originated in Judea and spread through the Levant, eventually reaching Antioch and spreading to Armenia, Georgia, Mesopotamia, Parthia, and India. Nestorian Christians are believed to have made their way from modern-day Iraq to China during the Tang Dynasty, with the earliest evidence of contact dating back to the 7th to 10th centuries.

The Christian mission in China was established by Alopen, a priest, in 635 AD and was initially welcomed by the Emperor despite resistance from local Buddhists and Daoists. Christianity surged in China during the Mongol period, as its leaders were more religiously tolerant, but it hit a stall under the Ming Dynasty.

Today, an estimated 20 million Christian adults live in China, comprising around 2% of the population. Taiwan and Japan also have Christian populations, with around 3% of Taiwanese and 1% of Japanese identifying as Christian. North Korea also has undercover Christians, thanks to evangelism by American Protestants in the 1800s.

15 INCREDIBLE ARCTIC Discoveries

While the Arctic is known for being cold, icy, and inhospitable, there are countless mysterious discoveries from this icy world that not many people know about. From ancient artifacts frozen in time to unique wildlife adaptations in the extreme cold, join us, as we countdown the top 15 most amazing arctic discoveries!

8 Prehistoric Animals That Have Been Found Trapped In Ice

The discovery of mummified animals, specifically those frozen in ice, can provide valuable information about extinct species and their way of life. Permafrost, areas of permanently frozen ground, have preserved Ice Age creatures, but they are melting due to global warming, releasing methane into the atmosphere. Unfortunately, pirates are taking advantage of melting permafrost and stealing valuable animal parts. However, this video focuses on specimens that have been discovered ethically. The woolly rhinoceros, cave lion, woolly mammoth, step bison, and Lena horse are some of the animals discussed in the video.

The woolly rhinoceros was found preserved in ice twice, with the 2020 discovery being one of the best-preserved animals ever found in the region. The cave lion, highly distinct and genetically isolated from the modern lion, was discovered in eastern Siberia in 2017 as a well-preserved cub. The woolly mammoth, famously discovered multiple times, had two calves discovered in 2007 and one of the best-preserved examples found in 2022. The step bison, with a complete heart, brain, and digestive system, was discovered in Northern Siberia in 2011, and its well-preserved blood vessels make it a potential candidate for cloning. The Lena horse, an extinct species of horse, was also discovered in Siberia.

Overall, mummified animals provide a glimpse into the past, but their discovery and preservation are at risk due to global warming and illegal activities.

Rare Photos Show How Medieval Women Really Looked

The video explores the beauty standards and appearance of women in different regions and periods of the Middle Ages. The video features rare images, scientific discoveries, art, reconstructions, and historical sources that shed light on how medieval women really looked like.

The Windsor Beauties, a set of portraits painted by Sir Peter Lely depicting some of King Charles II's mistresses and noble relatives and friends, show the beauty standards of the time, with fair skin, long hair, plucked eyebrows, and small teeth, among other features. Tora, a woman who lived 800 years ago in Trondheim, Norway, was not a noble or courtesan but an ordinary citizen.

Researchers used her skeletal remains to create a realistic-looking 3D model of what she may have looked like when she was alive. The model shows Tora smiling and holding a walking stick and is now on display at the NTNU University Museum as part of an exhibition called "Medieval Trondheim." The video highlights the importance of understanding how medieval women really looked like and how they influenced history with their beauty and power.

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.