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Atlas Obscura is a unique online portal that explores the world's hidden wonders, offbeat travel destinations, and unusual cultural phenomena. It is an amalgamation of a travel guide, an international magazine, a compendium of esoteric knowledge, and a community of like-minded explorers. The website is a treasure trove of intriguing articles, stunning photographs, and riveting videos that inspire curiosity and spark wanderlust. It delves into the depths of human history, delving into ancient myths, forgotten historical events, enigmatic cultures, eccentric hobbies, and curious traditions from every corner of the globe. In addition to its online content, Atlas Obscura also partners with tour operators to organize extraordinary travel experiences for its readers. These trips, known as Obscura Excursions, offer the opportunity to delve deeply into remote locations and special interests, from the magnificent caves of Croatia to the tranquil monasteries of Bhutan. Moreover, Atlas Obscura fosters a thriving community of individuals who find joy in the unconventional, the obscure, and the unexpected. Users can share their own discoveries, connect with fellow travelers, and participate in discussions about various intriguing topics. The site, therefore, transcends its function as a single-source knowledge portal, becoming a platform for intellectual exchange and camaraderie between those who dare to explore beyond the beaten path.

Atlas Obscura - Latest Articles and Places atlasobscura.com

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RSS Hunter • Aug 19, 2024

Thread Of Notes

Jingling Pot in England

Jingling Pot is a popular vertical cave in West Kingsdale, Yorkshire, located on the slopes of Wherneside mountain. It measures approximately 145 feet in depth and presents explorers with two descent options. One route is a direct abseil down the main shaft, offering significant exposure and dramatic views. Alternatively, cavers can enter the Lateral Cleft via a traverse a short distance from the entrance. The Lateral Cleft involves a series of shorter vertical drops that eventually merge with the main shaft's route. Historically, a swing across a gap was used to access the Cleft, but this is no longer advised due to tree and rock instability. The dry conditions of the cave are notable, with the stream that originally formed it now diverting elsewhere except during heavy rainfall. A unique characteristic of Jingling Pot is its grassy entrance, which attracts sheep that sometimes fall into the pit, leaving their remains at the bottom. The main shaft leads to a narrow rift that descends into another chamber where the initials of the Yorkshire Ramblers Club from their 1897 exploration are inscribed. Remarkably, the Lateral Cleft was only discovered much later, in 1969.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/jingling-pot atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 21

North American Cryptid Museum in Plano, Texas

Allen Hopps, creator of the North American Cryptid Museum (NACM) in Plano, Texas, believes the world needs monsters and aims to showcase North American cryptids. His childhood fear of the dark, particularly of werewolves, has evolved into a passion for these creatures. Hopps spent decades in the haunted house and entertainment industry, developing expertise in creating immersive experiences. He founded the NACM to move beyond traditional cryptozoology displays by offering "crypto-tainment." The museum features dozens of life-sized models, allowing visitors an intimate encounter with cryptids. This immersive approach aims to help guests understand reported sightings by literally stepping into the shoes of witnesses. The NACM provides a full sensory experience, displaying well-known cryptids like Bigfoot and Mothman, alongside lesser-known creatures. Hopps regularly adds new exhibits, ensuring the museum's collection is constantly expanding. He emphasizes that monsters are crucial for imagination, teaching, and processing fear. The NACM promises an engaging and thrilling experience for both cryptid enthusiasts and skeptics.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/north-american-cryptid-museum atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 21

Bunski Kanal in Malo Polje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Tucked away just a few minutes from Mostar, Bunski Kanal is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most overlooked natural treasures. Here, the emerald-green Buna River squeezes through a narrow limestone channel before merging with the larger Neretva River, creating a striking display of swirling currents, vivid colors, and raw natural power.Despite its proximity to popular attractions like Mostar and Blagaj, surprisingly few travelers stop here. Standing beside the narrow channel, watching the emerald Buna River rush into the Neretva, it felt like discovering a place that somehow escaped the guidebooks. It's the kind of place that invites you to slow down, watch the water dance through the gorge, and wonder why it isn't on every travel itinerary. If you enjoy discovering remarkable places before the crowds do, Bunski Kanal is a hidden gem well worth the short detour.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/bunski-kanal atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 21

Gin Drinkers Line in Hong Kong

Stretching 18km between modern day Kwai Chung (then known as Gin Drinkers Bay) to Port Shelter in Sai Kung, the Gin Drinkers Line was a massive defensive structure built by the British army, dubbed as 'the Maginot line of the East'.Construction on the line began in 1936, and took 2 years to complete. The lynch-pin of the entire line was the Shing Mun Redoubt, comprised of a number of pillboxes joined by an intricate network of tunnels, together with the Command Post and the principal artillery observation post for the whole position. Many of the tunnels were named after notable London landmarks to make navigation easier for the troops.The British believed the line to be capable of holding the Japanese invasion at bay for several weeks. But once the Japanese army launched their assault from the north on December 8th, 1941, the line fell after only 2 days. The surviving defenders hastily retreated to Hong Kong Island, remaining there until the British forces surrendered 2 weeks later on Christmas Day. While impressively fortified, the Gin Drinkers Line had far too many deficiencies to enable it to be adequately defended. The main issue stemmed from too few troops being stationed at the line. The Shing Mun Redoubt had the capacity for 120 soldiers, but was garrisoned by only 43 men. The defensive positions were spread out enough that outposts and patrolmen were often completely isolated and unable to support to each other. This encouraged the Japanese to launch surprise attacks, often infiltrating the undermanned line completely unopposed and unnoticed.Much of the western part of the line was either completely destroyed or has since been overgrown by nature. The eastern section near the Shing Mun Reservoir remains relatively intact and easy to access, allowing visitors to navigate Regent Street, Charing Cross, Shaftesbury Avenue and Haymarket, albeit in far less glamorous surroundings than their London namesakes.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gin-drinkers-line atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 21

‘The Missing’ Cabin in Jemez Springs, New Mexico

Located just off the main entrance road of New Mexico’s Valles Caldera–a 14-mile-wide circular depression created by a massive volcanic eruption 1.2 million years ago–it is hard to believe that this cabin could have gone missing. Instead, this cabin was built as part of the set of “The Missing,” a 2003 Western starring Tommy Lee Jones and Cate Blanchett. Since the National Park Service began managing the preserve in 2015, the scenic cabin has been left in place for visitors.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-missing-cabin atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 20

Volvo Island in Ottawa, Illinois

In 2012, the owner of a local Ottawa, Illinois, repair shop towed a 2001 Volvo S80 onto a peninsula and then used an excavator to create a small, one-car island. He intended to run a contest asking people to guess how the Volvo got there. The contest never materialized, as there was some concern that people might try to cross the 40-foot-deep lake for a better look.However, the Volvo remained.Today, it is a favorite tourist spot for those visiting the Ottawa region. The immediate area now boasts several more curiously placed vehicles, among them Volkswagen Beetles suspended from trees.The scene has been fenced off with barbed wire to keep any wayward individuals from getting too close, but those who want to take pictures can pull up at the gate or along the side of the road.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/volvo-island atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 20

Isis Heiligtum (Isis and Magna Mater Temple) in Mainz, Germany

What do you do when you've built a shopping mall but you find an ancient Roman temple underneath part of it? If you are in Mainz, Germany, you build the mall up around it, but leave it in place to be a hidden museum to the past.This is the "Isis-Heiligtum" (Isis Temple) in Mainz, Germany, preserved in place beneath the Römerpassage shopping mall within an easy 10-minute walk from Mainz Hauptbahnhof train station.Go downstairs into a space where you will walk over transparent glass walkways around the edges of a dual temple to Isis and Cybele (Magna Mater in Rome), two "foreign" goddesses who had considerable attention in the Roman Empire. Learn about the people who visited and worked at the temple, and an unsettling number of magical items that were buried in its grounds to curse and bless various people.Celebrate the Saturnalia with a disembodied voiceover and some cheesy videos, and enjoy this well-designed small museum in a very unexpected location.How many ancient goddesses have a modern shopping mall as a storefront?

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/isis-heiligtum-isis-and-magna-mater-temple atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 20

Red Sea Terminal in Marsa Alam, Egypt

Most airport terminals are designed simply to move travelers from one place to another. Terminal 1 at Hurghada International Airport attempts something more ambitious: turning the landscape outside into part of the building.Opened in late 2014, the terminal covers approximately 92,600 square meters across three main levels. Its most distinctive feature is the enormous elevated ceiling, whose flowing underside was designed to echo both the undulating Red Sea and the desert terrain surrounding Hurghada. Glass façades and wide, uncluttered interior spaces allow the ceiling to appear as though it is floating above the passengers below.The effect creates an architectural preview of the destination. Travelers arrive in the middle of an arid landscape, yet the shape of the sea is already waiting for them overhead. The terminal serves as a gateway to Hurghada and the wider Red Sea resort region, including El Gouna, Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, Soma Bay, and destinations farther south.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/hurghada-airport-s-red-sea-terminal atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 20

Fyllingsdalstunnelen in Fyllingsdalen, Norway

Opened in 2023, this tunnel is 2.9 km long (about 1.8 miles). Very useful for pedestrians, bicyclists, various exercising in a city where it rains almost all year. Now also easily binding together two parts of the city that previously was parted by a mountain and took a long time to travel around.Nice resting area in the middle as the tunnel there has a hall.Very colourful light throughout the entire tunnel that change now and then as one passes through the tunnel. Separate lanes for pedestrians and bicyclists.The tunnel runs in parallel with the city tram with an access tunnel for safety between the two. High security precautions throughout the entire tunnel.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/fyllingsdalstunnelen atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 20

Branch Davidian Compound in Axtell, Texas

The Mount Carmel Center near Axtell, Texas, was formerly occupied by the Branch Davidian religious group. Initially, the Branch Davidians lived peacefully and were accepted by the nearby Waco community. Their relative isolation ended in 1987 with a shootout between factions led by George Roden and Vernon Howell, who later became David Koresh. Under Koresh's leadership, the group adopted radical beliefs, including stockpiling weapons and Koresh's claims of divine instruction to procreate and prepare for the end times. He presented himself as a final prophet and engaged in relationships, including with underage girls, fathering numerous children. In February 1993, a federal warrant execution attempt led to a firefight with ATF agents, resulting in deaths on both sides and initiating a 51-day siege. The siege concluded on April 19, 1993, when a fire broke out, killing 76 Branch Davidians, many of whom were children. The original compound was demolished shortly after the siege. A new Branch Davidian community, "The Branch, The Lord Our Righteousness," now exists on the site, featuring a chapel, memorial, and wellness center. Access to the current site is regulated and requires a donation.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/branch-davidian-compound atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 19

Doña Manolita in Madrid, Spain

Spain's fragmented population unites around the Christmas lottery, El Gordo. A legendary shop in Madrid, founded by Doña Manolita, is central to this tradition. Manuela de Pablo opened her lottery stand in 1904, initially selling ticket fractions to students. Her establishment offered warmth, advice, and reliability, fostering deep customer loyalty. Over time, her reputation for dispensing prizes grew significantly. The shop expanded and moved from Calle San Bernardo to Gran Vía in 1931. It remained on Gran Vía for eighty years before relocating to Calle del Carmen in 2011. Today, the shop is a famous spectacle during the holiday season. Long queues form annually, with people traveling from across Spain to buy tickets. This enduring legacy makes the shop a pilgrimage site for luck and hope.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/dona-manolita atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 19

Stillman’s Run Battle Site Memorial in Stillman Valley, Illinois

In 1832, counties in central Illinois were calling for volunteers to protect the frontier from Black Hawk and his Sauk warriors. On the morning of May 14, 1832, tensions came to a head. Black Hawk’s warriors discovered Major Isaiah Stillman and nearly 300 militia men had set up camp uncomfortably close by, near Sycamore Creek in what is now Ogle County. Black Hawk, not yet ready for combat, sent three men to negotiate with the unit (sources disagree on whether or not he sent them under the white flag of truce), but he also sent five additional men out as scouts to keep an eye on the safety of his messengers. Some of Stillman’s men spied the scouts and fired on them. Chaos erupted as two of the scouts and one messenger were killed.Although Black Hawk’s men were few (30-50 by most accounts), Stillman’s troops were inexperienced (some say intoxicated), and the battle - if it could be called that - was disordered and confused. Stillman, certain he was outnumbered, issued an order to retreat back to Dixon’s Ferry. In the midst of this disorganized withdrawal, 12 of Stillman’s men were killed while attempting to make a stand on a hill.The next day, future president Abraham Lincoln, then just a soldier from Sangamon County, came upon the remains of the unfortunate men and helped bury them in a common grave. The names of these 12 soldiers are noted on the Stillman's Run memorial, and their military headstones are displayed in front of it. The area around this hill is named Stillman Valley, but Major Isaiah Stillman is more likely remembered for his ignominious military defeat and the battle named after it.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/stillmans-run-battle-site-memorial atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 19

East Finchley Tube Station & the Archer in London, England

East Finchley in North London has historical ties to hunting grounds and commoners' rights. The Archer, a prominent symbol, likely influenced local establishments like "The Archer" newspaper and The Archer Academy. Even Northern Line tube drivers wear an archer motif tie pin, reinforcing this connection. The East Finchley Tube Station, a Charles Holden design, exemplifies inter-war Art Deco/Modernist style. Architectural sculptor Eric Aumonier created the iconic crouching Archer statue adorning the station. This station and sculpture reflect a period of optimism between World Wars. Both Holden and Aumonier were influenced by Frank Pick, a key figure in London Underground development. The Archer statue appears to shoot an arrow towards the entrance of a 17.3-mile tunnel, formerly the world's longest. Despite being commissioned as part of a series, the beech wood and lead-clad Archer, finished in 1940, was the only one completed during World War II. Its Cubist influence complements the Art Deco station, notable for its semi-circular glazed stairways and rounded brickwork, reminiscent of London's Art Deco residential architecture. East Finchley station stands as a superb example of Art Deco tube architecture, featuring the unique Archer and the entrance to the UK's longest rail tunnel.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/east-finchley-tube-station-the-archer atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 19

Kloster Eberbach in Eltville am Rhein, Germany

Kloster Eberbach, in Eltville am Rhein, is a Cistercian architectural marvel founded in 1136 by twelve monks. It is celebrated for its column-free Romanesque grain barn and ancient wine cellars. The abbey has produced Rheingau Rieslings for nearly nine centuries, highlighting its viticultural importance. Its historic halls gained global fame as the setting for the 1986 film "The Name of the Rose." Starring Sean Connery, the film depicted a 14th-century monastery within the abbey's walls. This brought its grim, intellectual atmosphere to a global audience. Today, the abbey serves multiple functions beyond its historical significance. Visitors can experience dining at the Klosterschänke, located in the former monks' dining hall. It offers refined German and Mediterranean cuisine. Diners enjoy panoramic views of the cloister garden and vineyards. They walk paths once trod by cinematic figures. Kloster Eberbach thus perfectly blends history, viticulture, and modern appeal.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/eberbach-abbey-kloster-eberbach atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 18

Salubria in Stevensburg, Virginia

Latin for "healthful" or "good health," Salubria, unlike James Madison's nearby home, Montpelier, is a lesser-known gem of the Piedmont region. Salubria, c 1757, is currently preserved though not restored- the house has not been repainted or re-furnished in period attire inside.Much of the wood is original! The Germanna Historical Society owns the home as of 2000, and was recently awarded a substantial grant to continue reviving Salubria and sharing the home with the public. Like many manor homes from this era of history, Salubria has a storied and complicated past. Enslaved people lived and worked here for the first century of the home's existence.The halls saw famous early American figures pass through and witnessed Civil War skirmishes. Woodrow Wilson's personal physician, Cary Grayson, was born at Salubria in 1878.The house is almost the exact same floor plan as the George Wythe house in Williamsburg, Virginia, and if you look up the interior of the Wythe house you'll get a good sense of what Salubria would have looked like nearly 300 years ago.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/salubria atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 18

Tin Pan Theater in Bend, Oregon

Tin Pan Theater is a beloved arthouse cinema owned by BendFilm in the historic district of Bend, Oregon. The intimate 28 seat theater is adorned with red velvet old-fashioned seats that can best be enjoyed with the best home-made popcorn you've ever had.The small in-room concessions also serve up other classic movie fare including candy, soda, and local beer and wine on tap!Along with independent films and cult classic showings, they offer events like 'Spaghetti Western Wednesdays' which serves up a spaghetti meal paired with a surprise old western film and 'Crouching Tiger Micro Cinema Sundays' which serves up a delicious Chinese dinner and a surprise martial arts film.Tin Pan is the destination for a wonderfully nostalgic movie viewing experience.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/tin-pan-theater atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 18

Cinema Africa in Asmara, Eritrea

Built during the Italian colonial era, when Asmara boasted one of the highest concentrations of cinemas in the continent, Cinema Africa belonged to a city where going to the movies was as much a social ritual as an evening's entertainment. Now outside the sightseeing circuit that comprises Cinema Impero and Roma, this building is one of the largest cinemas in the country and a remarkable example of Art Deco architecture that remains largely undiscovered.It still houses a functioning café, accessible through the side entrance, on the ground floor where people gather over espresso and chatter, preserving the atmosphere that once made Asmara's cinemas as much about meeting friends as watching films.The building itself is modest compared with the monumental Cinema Impero, but that is part of its appeal. Visitors encounter something increasingly rare: a historic cinema that still belongs primarily to the people who live around it, serving its community and yet allowing the few travelers who reach it to peek into the main theatre room, an extraordinary grid of bare wooden retractable seats that are not find anywhere else in the country.It is a peculiar place for good coffee, to watch a football match on the café's tv, play billiard or observe neighbourhood conversations.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/cinema-africa atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 18

Gregg-Crites Octagon House in Circleville, Ohio

Located on the southern end of town, the Gregg-Crites Octagon House is one of Pickaway County's most unique architectural landmarks.This eight-sided home in Circleville, Ohio is believed to have been built between 1855-56 by a man named George Gregg. While the exact history is vague, the house may have been constructed to resemble the octagonal courthouse at the center of town when Circleville was originally laid out in the form of a circle. Also at this time of history, the octagon-style home gained popularity across the country due to the efficient use of space and strong light and airflow. Inside the home, the layout originally featured a central free-standing spiral staircase, with rooms arranged like slices of pizza. Each room connected directly, allowing for free movement without the wasted space of traditional hallways. In the new millennium, the Octagon House faced possible demolition as surrounding land was purchased for redevelopment. The octagon house was carefully relocated to its current location on Crites Road, south of downtown. With a fear of losing this special building, Circleville residents organized to protect the structure by forming a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the home.In 2021, the Gregg-Crites Octagon House was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This honor recognizes its architectural and historical significance on the national level.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gregg-crites-octagon-house atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

Dolphin Sunset in Hong Kong

Tsim Sha Tsui is one of Hong Kong's busiest districts, filled with people from morning till night. It is particularly popular with mainland tourists who arrive directly by ferry from Chinese cities in the Pearl River Delta region. Many of these tourists will disembark at the China Ferry Terminal on Canton Road, then head straight to the Star Ferry Pier and Ocean Terminal, both places normally jam-packed with people, to photograph Victoria Harbour. Unknown to most, the rooftop of the Ferry Terminal that they arrived at and will depart from, is one of the best harbour viewing spots.The unobstructed westward views from the 10,000 square foot rooftop promenade/observation deck are particularly vivid at sunset, with few people to hinder photo taking. The other photography subject on this podium level is the Dolphin Sunset statue, consisting of three silver dolphins breaching from a square fountain.At sunset, the sky's hues are reflected on the statue and water's surface. After nightfall, the fountain's coloured lights illuminate the statue, with the changing colours strikingly shining off the dolphins, contrasting with the dark skies.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/dolphin-sunset atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

15 Best Places to Experience Bioluminescence

The term "glow worm" encompasses various bioluminescent organisms, including gnat larvae and algae, found globally. These creatures produce light through internal chemical reactions, a phenomenon known as bioluminescence. Bioluminescence has evolved independently over 540 million years and can be observed in unique locations worldwide. New Zealand's Waipu Caves offer a less crowded alternative to Waitomo Caves, showcasing glowworms deep within the caverns. Australia's Glowworm Tunnel, an abandoned railway, is illuminated by a colony of glowworms on its roof. The Maldives' "Sea of Stars" phenomenon features shimmering phytoplankton that glow with the waves. Great Smoky Mountains National Park hosts synchronous fireflies that flash in unison, a rare synchronized flashing event. Newnes Glow Worm Tunnel in Australia is home to fungus gnat larvae that hunt with glowing mucus strings. The Bloody Bay Coral Wall in the Cayman Islands features bioluminescent coral and microscopic organisms visible during night dives. Blue ghost fireflies in North Carolina emit an eerie blue-green light rather than flashing. Jamaica's Glistening Waters lagoon glows due to bioluminescent dinoflagellates, believed in folklore to possess rejuvenating properties. Malaysia's Kampung Kuantan Fireflies Park is known for its synchronized fireflies, though their population has declined. Glowing millipedes in Sequoia National Park use bioluminescence as a warning to predators. Gippsland Lakes in Australia can exhibit bioluminescence from algae blooms, particularly after heavy rains. The Firefly Squid of Toyama Bay, Japan, are small but spectacular, lighting up the water with photophores on their tentacles. Waitomo Glowworm Caves in New Zealand are famous for their starlike glow from bioluminescent larvae. The "Milky Seas" off the coast of Somalia represent the largest known bioluminescent area on Earth, caused by bacteria. Alabama's Dismals Canyon features endemic "Dismalites," gnat larvae that emit a bright blue-green light to attract prey.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/bioluminescent-places-around-the-world atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

Iglesia De La Asunción in San Sebastián de La Gomera, Spain

The Canary Islands are known primarily as tropical paradise for vacations, but also have beautiful nature and some of the best preserved historical buildings. La Gomerra is a great example of this, with many 15th-century buildings still in use today. Perhaps the most notable of these buildings is the church in San Sebastian which dates back to the early 15th century as a chapel, and was expanded in the following centuries. While the wooden ceilings, centuries old paintings and altar pieces are definitely worth a visit on their own, the age of the church also connects it to many historical figures, mostly notable of who being Columbus who is said to have visited before going off to the Americas.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/iglesia-de-la-asuncion atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

The World’s Oldest Living Things: 14 Ancient Organisms

Ancient organisms, including trees, fungi, clonal colonies, and deep-sea creatures, demonstrate remarkable endurance and adaptation across millennia. These lifeforms serve as living testaments to Earth's history, offering a stark contrast to humanity's brief existence. The definition of "oldest" varies, with some organisms being clonal colonies, others continuously growing individuals, and some with ages only estimated due to extremely slow growth. Pando, a quaking aspen clonal colony in Utah, is over a million years old and one of the largest living organisms. Honey mushrooms in Oregon form a vast fungal network estimated to be 2,400 years old. Old Tjikko, a Norway spruce in Sweden, has a root system dating back 9,550 years. A creosote bush colony called King Clone in California is approximately 11,700 years old. Bristlecone pines like Methuselah Tree in California and the former Prometheus in Nevada are thousands of years old. Ancient trees like the Li Jiawan Grand Ginkgo King in China and yew trees in Scotland and Wales hold deep cultural and mythological significance. The Volcano Sponge in Antarctica, at 15,000 years old, is the world's oldest known animal, living in extreme conditions. Black coral colonies in Milford Sound, New Zealand, are over 4,000 years old, representing some of the planet's oldest continuously living organisms.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/where-to-find-the-oldest-living-things-in-the-world atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals in Portsmouth, Ohio

Portsmouth, Ohio, despite its elevated location near the Ohio River, historically suffered from severe floods. Significant flood events in 1884, 1913, and 1937 necessitated the construction of a floodwall for community protection. Following the devastating 1937 flood, city officials erected the floodwall to prevent future disasters. Residents later envisioned the floodwall as more than just a protective barrier; they desired it to become a canvas for their city's historical narratives. In 1992, a nonprofit organization was established with the express purpose of creating a mural on the floodwall. Artist Robert Dafford and his team commenced painting in 1993, creating expansive murals that span over 2,000 years of local history. These artworks are presented across 60 large panels, illustrating key aspects of Portsmouth's past. The murals cover topics such as Native American ancestry, pioneer settlement, river trade, the Underground Railroad, notable athletes, and daily life. Stretching nearly half a mile, the Portsmouth Floodwall Murals extend 2,090 feet along Front Street. The impressive 20-foot height of the floodwall provides an extensive surface for this vibrant historical outdoor gallery.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/portsmouth-flood-wall-murals atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 17

Rogue Creamery in Central Point, Oregon

The Rogue Creamery in Central Point, Oregon is worth a detour for fabulous world-class cheeses. The building in itself is cute enough to stop for a photo op with a vintage mural, blue neon sign, and old blue pickup truck advertising this cheese monger paradise. But what lays inside is a humble but extraordinary cheese selection ranging from cheese curds, wheels of Rogue Blue cheese (this is the world winning), and you can even order a decadent grilled cheese to enjoy patio-side. Why not grab a bottle of wine or perhaps sign up for their cheese club while you're at it? Rogue Creamery is also Oregon's first B-Corporation business, which is a rigorous title only given to businesses that exhibit the highest commitment to service and sustainability.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/rogue-creamery atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 16

Murales del Borgo San Giuliano in Rimini, Italy

Founded around the year 1000, Borgo San Giuliano, was originally the city's fishermen’s quarter. The tradition of painting murals that has made Borgo San Giuliano famous has deep roots. In 1979, the city council suggested demolishing the neighborhood to make way for a new residential development. In response, locals organised the first “Festa de’ Borg” to celebrate, promote, and defend their identity.Several Rimini-based artists were invited to paint the most iconic local figures on the walls of the houses. Then during the second festival, the murals were showed scenes of daily life, trades, and local traditions.This tradition has continued, and today the murals tell the story of the Borgo from the 1900s to the present day.In 1994, the festival was dedicated to Federico Fellini, who had passed away that same year. The Maestro had featured many colorful local characters in his films. Artists painted murals inspired by his works, becoming a lasting tribute to the legendary director.The first murals were originally painted on the oldest houses, and sadly some have been lost to time, while others can still be seen or found in vintage photos.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/murales-del-borgo-san-giuliano atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

Fannie Bay Gaol in Fannie Bay, Australia

For nearly a century, Fannie Bay Gaol was the Northern Territory of Australia's principal prison, confining a range of prisoners from cattle rustlers and opium traffickers to political prisoners and condemned murderers. It was opened as Her Majesty's Gaol and Labour Prison in 1883 and remained in use until 1979. This made it one of Australia's longest operating frontier prisons.The building which has seen various additions and modifications over the years is constructed from a mix of stone, timber, corrugated iron and concrete structures. It is evident that Darwin's tropical climate conditions and limited resources has shaped the development of the prison.Fannie Bay Gaol's most notorious features are its gallows. It is here where the last hangings were carried out in the Northern Territory in 1952 and the execution facilities have been preserved and are still on the site. The site now functions as a museum, offering an unusually complete glimpse into the history of punishment, colonial justice and daily prison life in Australia's tropical north.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/fannie-bay-gaol atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

The Atlas Obscura Guide to the World's Strangest Christmas Traditions

European Christmas markets offer predictable mulled wine and wooden huts, lacking distinct national character. In contrast, local traditions are specific, timed, and often quite dark, sometimes even involving mythical creatures. These traditions vary greatly and require precise timing to experience.Austria and Bavaria feature Krampus, a demonic counterpart to Saint Nicholas, who parades and swats onlookers on December 5th and 6th. Milwaukee also holds a significant Krampusnacht event due to its German heritage. Central Europe has Frau Perchta, a Christmas witch often depicted with frightening companions. Poland features the Turoń, a bull-like beast that dances through villages.Iceland boasts unique Christmas monsters, including the Yule Cat, which eats those without new clothing on Christmas Eve. The thirteen Yule Lads arrive nightly before Christmas, with potentially terrifying original forms, and are associated with Dimmuborgir, a volcanic landscape. Gävle, Sweden, has a tradition of erecting a large straw Yule Goat that is repeatedly destroyed, often by arson.Catalonia includes El Caganer, a defecating peasant figure, in its nativity scenes, symbolizing fertility or coexistence. Oaxaca, Mexico, celebrates La Noche de Rábanos on December 23rd, featuring intricate sculptures carved from enormous radishes that wilt by day's end. The United States has embraced Christmas as a permanent state with themed amusement parks and towns like Leavenworth, Washington, and its Nutcracker Museum. For those seeking markets, it's recommended to choose a city for its other attractions and prioritize specific traditions.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/guide-to-strangest-christmas-traditions atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

The Atlas Obscura Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights

A common aurora-hunting failure involves booking a trip solely for the Northern Lights and encountering cloudy skies, leading to disappointment and the incorrect conclusion that the location was unsuitable. Aurora is a probability, not a guarantee, and no single place can promise a viewing. A better approach is to choose a destination for its other attractions, with the aurora as a bonus.The solar cycle influences aurora activity, with the current cycle's decline still offering good chances through 2027. Equinoxes, specifically late September and March, are prime times due to Earth's magnetic field alignment. Darkness is essential, making summer unsuitable for aurora viewing.Svalbard offers a unique experience beyond the aurora, featuring the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, the abandoned Soviet town of Pyramiden, and a prohibition on burials due to permafrost. Iceland provides stunning foregrounds for aurora photography, such as Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and Diamond Beach, offering beautiful natural backdrops. Travelers can also relax in geothermal waters while waiting for the lights.Arctic Norway, particularly Tromsø, is a highly recommended destination due to its location under the auroral oval and established aurora tourism industry. For those seeking fewer crowds, the Lofoten Islands offer similar aurora potential with dramatic mountain scenery. Finnish Lapland presents unique accommodations like glass igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, allowing comfortable viewing from bed.Even Scotland can offer aurora sightings during significant geomagnetic storms, with Galloway Forest Park being a designated Dark Sky Park. For a successful trip, stay at least five nights to increase chances and choose locations with access to multiple valleys to outmaneuver local clouds. Understanding the Kp index and utilizing reliable space weather forecasts are crucial. Ultimately, selecting a destination based on its inherent attractions guarantees a worthwhile experience, regardless of aurora visibility.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/guide-to-northern-lights atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

The Atlas Obscura Guide to Winter Sun

Annual winter sun lists often focus on warm destinations for beach holidays. However, a more intriguing question is where the northern winter makes a place accessible or reveals something hidden. This perspective leads to unusual destinations that are transformed by the season.Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia becomes a vast mirror when a thin layer of water covers the salt flats during the wet austral summer, which coincides with the northern winter. This natural phenomenon creates a surreal landscape where the horizon vanishes, and visitors appear to walk on the sky, a sight not present outside this December-to-March period. Nearby attractions include the Great Train Graveyard and colorful mineral lakes.The Salton Sea in California is hazardous in its summer heat, making winter the ideal time for visitation. This desert region attracts "snowbirds" to communities like Slab City, and features Salvation Mountain, a folk art monument. The Salton Sea itself, an accidental lake, is a unique environment supporting diverse avian life and showcasing the remnants of fish die-offs.The Atacama Desert in Chile, the driest place on Earth, preserves artifacts due to its extreme aridity. Winter allows for comfortable exploration of this region, home to meteorite collections, abandoned nitrate towns like Humberstone, and ghost towns that stand as testaments to past industries. Some areas, like Chacabuco, still require caution due to historical landmine risks.Kolmanskop in Namibia is a ghost town being consumed by the desert, once a thriving diamond mining settlement. The winter months offer a more temperate experience to witness the sand dunes filling the abandoned buildings, remnants of its prosperous past. Permits are required to enter this unique landscape.These destinations highlight how dry, remote places preserve history and offer singular experiences. The northern winter, by mitigating extreme heat, makes these remarkable locations accessible for exploration. The true allure lies not in typical beach resorts, but in these environments that reveal their secrets during the colder months.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/guide-to-winter-sun atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

Gloucester Sea Serpent Statue in Gloucester, Massachusetts

In the summer of 1817, Gloucester, Massachusetts, experienced a phenomenon reminiscent of Jaws, but with a sea serpent instead of a shark. Initial sightings by a few individuals quickly escalated as hundreds witnessed an unusual creature. Experts arrived to investigate amidst growing hysteria, fueled by the difficult economic and environmental conditions of the time. The appearance of the serpent was interpreted by some as an apocalyptic omen. The Linnaean Society of New England investigated, concluding it was a new species, Scoliophis atlanticus, after examining a deformed snake. However, later scientific investigations revealed the snake was a common species with a spinal deformity. Decades later, the Boston Society of Natural History officially debunked the sea serpent as a case of mass hysteria. Several theories have been proposed to explain the sightings, including humpback whales, narwhals, or sperm whales with debris. Regardless of its true nature, the sea serpent has left a lasting impact on Gloucester's culture and folklore. The creature is still commemorated through art, statues, and historical tours, reminding visitors of the enduring mystery.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gloucester-sea-serpent-statue atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

Pickering Museum Village in Pickering, Ontario

Step back in time at Pickering Museum Village, a vibrant pocket of the 19th century tucked into the modern world. Here, history sheds its dusty textbooks and comes alive through the crackle of a blacksmith’s forge, the smell of heritage gardens, and the creak of decades-old timber buildings.It is a place where you do not just look at the past—you actively live it by cracking riddles in historical escape rooms, wandering lantern-lit paths on eerie ghost walks, and trying your hand at long-lost pioneer skills.This charming village transforms local heritage into a playground of discovery, making it the perfect escape for anyone looking to spark their curiosity and connect with the timeless stories of early settlers.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/pickering-museum-village atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

19 Creepy Catacombs Around the World You Can Visit

Catacombs, underground burial sites, originated in first-century Rome and became more widespread in 17th-century Europe due to overcrowding and sanitation issues. Paris's catacombs, for instance, house the remains of over six million people within miles of quarry tunnels. While Paris is famous, similar crypt networks exist globally, such as those beneath Mexico's Templo Expiatorio and Washington D.C.'s Franciscan Monastery. Serbia's Petrovaradin Fortress hides a four-story network of military galleries with symbolic inscriptions. New York's Old St. Patrick's Cathedral catacombs inter early Catholic immigrants and notable figures like the Delmonico family. Naples, Italy, features the Catacombs of Saint Gaudiosus with ancient Christian art and later mummification practices, and the Fontanelle Cemetery Caves, a mass burial site with a unique "cult of the dead" tradition. Malta's St. Cataldus Catacombs showcase early Christian funerary rituals, and its larger complexes like St. Paul's and St. Agatha's date from the 3rd to 6th centuries. England's Warstone Lane Cemetery catacombs in Birmingham served as burial sites for the poor, while other examples include Portugal's Igreja de São Francisco and Rome's Sacconi Rossi Crypt for unclaimed bodies. These subterranean spaces reveal historical burial customs, religious practices, and societal conditions across different cultures and eras.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/best-catacombs-around-the-world atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 14

Tribute to Hard Working Hands in Dallas, Texas

The Descending Hand Sculpture, created in 2022 by local Dallas artist Andrew Z., serves as a powerful tribute to the unsung hands that shape our modern world. Suspended dramatically from the ceiling of the Operators Club, its raw and industrial aesthetic immediately captures attention while conveying a deep respect for human labor.By intentionally leaving the sculpture unfinished, the piece visually mirrors the ongoing, grueling work required to build and sustain the infrastructure we rely on every day. It transforms a simple physical form into a striking symbol of endurance, prompting visitors to pause and reflect on the quiet dedication woven into the spaces around them.This thoughtful execution elevates an industrial installation into a genuinely moving artistic statement, leaving travelers with a renewed appreciation for hard work and craftsmanship.Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, our lounge offers handcrafted cocktails, modern elegance, and sweeping city views. Whether you're here for a night out, a private event, or just great conversation over drinks, The Operators Club delivers a refined experience above it all.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/tribute-to-hard-working-hands atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 13

South Main Plaza Dog Fountain in Mount Vernon, Ohio

At the heart of South Main Plaza in Mt. Vernon sits an unexpected menagerie: a fountain crowded with painted cast-aluminum dogs, watched over by a cat, a pony, two pairs of birds, and, inexplicably, an apple. At the very center sits a golden bone, and the cat, smart enough to know better, keeps itself perched safely out of the spray.It all started when Gambier resident Phil Samuell saw photos online of a similar dog fountain in Toronto's Berczy Park, designed by landscape architect Claude Cormier. He liked it enough that he and his wife, Mary, and their golden retriever, Sandy, made the trip to Toronto to meet Cormier and see the real thing. That visit is what got the idea rolling to bring one home to Ohio.The fountain doesn't take itself too seriously. It's just a bunch of dogs (plus a cat, a pony, some birds, and that apple) caught mid-splash around a big golden bone, and it's become the kind of spot where people linger, trying to spot every animal hiding in the water.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/south-main-plaza-dog-fountain atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 13

The Atlas Obscura Guide to Halloween Travel

The article discusses a different type of Halloween tourism that focuses on real places with dark histories, rather than staged haunted houses. These places have documented records of the events that occurred there, making them more frightening than any ghost story. One such place is the former home of Ed and Lorraine Warren, which is now open for private overnight bookings and features a collection of haunted objects, including the Annabelle doll. The collection will also be temporarily displayed in Salem, Massachusetts, starting in late August. Other places mentioned include the Taunton State Hospital, which has a reputation for hauntings due to its dark past, and the Outagamie County Asylum Cemetery, where many former patients were buried without names. The article also highlights places where folklore and superstition have played a significant role, such as the Greenbrier Ghost marker in West Virginia and the Three Brujas in New Mexico. Additionally, the article mentions several cemeteries, including Highgate Cemetery in London and the Georgiana Cemetery in Florida, which have unusual and fascinating stories. The Lizzie Borden House in Massachusetts is also featured, where guests can stay in the actual house where the infamous murders took place. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of approaching dark tourism with respect and sensitivity, reading the history of a place before visiting, and not trespassing or disrespecting the sites. By doing so, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the places and their histories, and have a more meaningful and frightening experience. The article also touches on the idea that the truth behind these places is often more interesting and frightening than any ghost story or legend, and that the folklore and superstition surrounding them are a reflection of the real beliefs and fears of the people who lived there. Overall, the article provides a unique perspective on Halloween tourism, one that focuses on the real and often disturbing histories of the places being visited, rather than staged scares and special effects. The article encourages readers to approach these places with a sense of respect and curiosity, and to consider the complex and often dark histories that have shaped them.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/guide-to-halloween-travel atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 13

City of Justice in Vilnius, Lithuania

Pop culture often portrays parallel worlds with ominous undertones, frequently leading to horror scenarios like those in Stranger Things or Hellraiser. While films like Everything Everywhere All at Once explore dimensional leaps entertainingly, they still hint at the dangers. In contrast, Eames Demetrios's Kcymaerxthaere project presents a peaceful and original parallel universe.Kcymaerxthaere intertwines with our reality, marking specific global locations as spots where its inhabitants' actions have left their imprint. These unique, often artistic sites are identified by large metal plaques detailing their imaginary history in local languages and English. Demetrios, inheriting the Eames design legacy, has the resources to pursue this global endeavor.One such location is Užupis in Vilnius, Lithuania, an artistic mini-republic. Within the Kcymaerxthaere cosmos, Užupis is recognized as the City of Justice. The plaque there recounts a tale of a boy from the sea encountering Eliala Mei-Ning, whose song manifested a protective city of justice.This narrative highlights the project's ability to imbue beautiful, special places with fictional histories. Kcymaerxthaere's fiction ensures the marked locations are inherently captivating. Perhaps Demetrios alone comprehends a deeper truth, as suggested by the satire Bugonia. This perspective offers a compelling explanation for the existence of both beautiful and terrible places in our world.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-city-of-justice atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 13

RoboCop Statue in Detroit, Michigan

RoboCop is a fictional, cybernetically enhanced Detroit police officer from the RoboCop franchise. Beginning in 1987 with the film “RoboCop”, the stories of RoboCop center around, Officer Alex James Murphy after he has been cybernetically enhanced and continues to fight crime in Detroit. In early 2011, the Detroit mayor and his communications team solicited suggestions for improvements to the city. They received a suggestion to erect a statue of Robocop since he would be “…a GREAT ambassador for Detroit." Within days the idea went viral and a Kickstarter campaign to “Build a Robocop Statue in Detroit” started. After the funding was secured, the work on creating the statue began. Mark Dubeau from Tippett Studio, located the original armor by Rob Bottin and created molds in a partnership with Fred Barton Productions. The life-size armor restoration was 3D scanned and digitally scaled to create the 10 foot tall figure. The company Venus Bronze Works and Owner/ sculpture conservator Giorgio Gikas worked on statue. One detail not depicted in the statue is RoboCop’s gun. Instead, the statue portrays RoboCop in "an inviting and approachable gesture" as opposed to being armed and threatening. After years of setbacks and delays, the statue was finally placed on December 3rd, 2025, standing outside 3434 Russell St., just south of Mack Ave in Detroit's Eastern Market.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/robocop-statue atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 13

Lazareto de Menorca in Es Castell, Spain

Hidden on a small island in the middle of Mahón Harbour, the Lazareto of Menorca is one of Europe's largest and best-preserved maritime quarantine stations. Built during the 19th century, it was designed to isolate ships, passengers, and cargo arriving from ports affected by deadly diseases such as plague, cholera, and yellow fever. Long before antibiotics and vaccines, quarantine was one of the few effective ways to stop epidemics from spreading across Europe.The complex functioned like a self-contained world. High walls separated different quarantine areas, while hospitals, chapels, gardens, warehouses, and living quarters allowed hundreds of people to remain isolated for weeks. Every space was carefully planned to prevent contact between those under observation and the outside world.Today, visitors can walk through this remarkably intact complex and explore a forgotten chapter in the history of public health. Surrounded by the calm waters of Mahón Harbour, the island offers a striking contrast between its peaceful setting and the dramatic stories of fear, hope, and survival that unfolded within its walls.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/lazareto-de-menorca atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 12

Hundafoss in Iceland

Most walkers leave Skaftafell aiming at Svartifoss, but the trail offers an earlier surprise. Hundafoss drops through Bæjargil in a narrow, green-sided gorge, giving the uphill approach a quieter prelude before the main waterfall’s basalt-column setting.Its smaller scale is part of the charm. Summer foliage can partly hide the first angle, while a clearer side view makes the slender fall and dark gorge easier to read. Hundafoss feels less like a roadside checklist stop and more like a detail revealed by following the trail.The waterfall works best as part of the Svartifoss walk, not as a separate South Coast detour. Continue only when trail conditions, weather, daylight, and the group’s walking margin support the wider Skaftafell plan.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/hundafoss atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 12

Bologna Centrale Bombing Memorial in Bologna, Italy

On Saturday, 2nd August 1980, at 10.25 am, a bomb exploded in the 2nd-class waiting room at Bologna Centrale.The blast affected the surrounding areas of the station, causing a part of the building to collapse and also struck the stationary Ancona–Chiasso train, standing at platform one.At the time of the explosion the station was busy with commuters. Among those present were students and workers on their daily commute and families and travellers from various Italian cities and other countries on their summer holidays.The attack killed 85 people and injured a further 200 travellers. The youngest victim was only 3 years old, the oldest 86, with many victims been young adults in their teens and twenties.The Bologna Centrale Bombing is the most deadly massacre to have occurred in Italy during the years of the ‘strategy of tension’, a period marked by terrorism and political violence.The bomb left a physical gash in the wall of the waiting room. During the reconstruction of the station, a part of the wall was preserved as a memorial in the current waiting room. Anyone passing through can still see the exact location of the explosion and read the names engraved on the memorial plaque.Every year, Bologna commemorates the 85 victims and their families. At 10.25 am, on the 2nd August, the city observes a minute’s silence in front of the station.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/bologna-centrale-bombing-memorial atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 12

The Atlas Obscura Guide to the 2027 Total Solar Eclipse

On August 2, 2027, a rare total solar eclipse will occur, offering an exceptionally long duration of totality. The path of the Moon's shadow will traverse southern Spain, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Luxor, Egypt, is highlighted as the prime viewing location due to its proximity to the path's center line. Here, totality will last an impressive six minutes and twenty-three seconds, the longest on accessible land until 2114. This duration is significantly longer than most total eclipses, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event for many. Luxor also boasts a low cloud cover probability in August, enhancing viewing certainty. The eclipse path conveniently passes over numerous ancient Egyptian monuments, which were deeply connected to solar observations. While other locations like Cádiz and Gibraltar are options, they offer shorter durations of totality. Many North African and Middle Eastern countries on the path have travel advisories, making Egypt the safest and most rewarding choice. Eclipse chasers have dubbed this event the "eclipse of the century," and preparations are already underway with hotels selling out. Planning ahead is crucial, with booking eighteen months in advance recommended due to high demand and rising prices. Visitors should also consider the extreme heat in August and allocate sufficient time to explore the historical sites beyond the six minutes of totality.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/guide-to-2027-total-eclipse atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 12

Beer Spa Bernard in Prague, Czechia

At Beer Spa Bernard, you can soak in a steaming hot tub infused with hops, malt, brewers yeast, and other beer ingredients while pouring yourself unlimited Czech Bernard Beer from the tap beside your private tub. Inspired by centuries-old Central European brewing traditions, the experience combines spa relaxation with Czech's famous beer culture in a way that is equal parts wellness and unique to Prague. Beer Spa Bernard is a family oriented, children are welcome to accompany adults and, instead of unlimited beer, kids will receive unlimited juice. Wine is also available for adults as well. Whether you visit for a spa day or a beer day, you will leave with an unforgettable experience as it is one of Prague's most unique and quirky attractions.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/beer-spa-bernard atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 12

Cattedrale di San Nicolò in Noto, Italy

The Val di Noto in southeastern Sicily is home to eight towns recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These towns were rebuilt in a distinctive style following the catastrophic 1693 earthquake that devastated the region. The medieval town of Noto was virtually destroyed, prompting its relocation to a new site for improved safety and urban planning. New Noto was constructed with more spacious layouts to prevent damage similar to the previous earthquake. Construction of Noto's cathedral, dedicated to St. Nicholas, began in the early 18th century and was completed in 1776. Visitors are greeted by a grand staircase leading to the cathedral's large bronze doors. Although the original ornate interior was lost due to a roof and dome collapse in 1996, the dome was reconstructed by 2007. The cathedral's interior is now largely white, though elements like the lectern and chancel retain Baroque details. Noto is celebrated as the pinnacle of Sicilian Baroque, and its cathedral is a prime example of this architectural period. The town's characteristic golden glow is attributed to the local pale yellow sandstone used in its construction.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/cattedrale-di-san-nicolo atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 11

The Original ‘Backrooms’ Location (John’s Hobbies) in Oshkosh, Wisconsin

For years, the real-world location of the original Backrooms photo remained a total mystery. In 2024, dedicated internet sleuths traced the image back to a 2003 renovation photo taken inside this Oshkosh building while it was being converted from an old furniture store.Today, the building houses John's Hobbies. While the infamous yellow walls have been completely remodelled, the upper floor where the picture was taken now operates as an RC car racetrack, drawing internet culture enthusiasts from all over the world.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-original-backrooms-location-johns-hobbies atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 11

The Bucket of Blood and St.Pialas Well in Phillack, England

Cornwall is a unique UK county rich in folklore, myth, and history, creating vibrant communities. Hayle, a Cornish community, has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, with recent centuries focused on mining and shipping. These industries led to the establishment of inns, including The New Inn in the 13th or 14th Century, which used a nearby well for brewing.Folklore and history intertwine regarding the well, blurring the lines of truth. One morning, the Innkeeper supposedly found his bucket filled with blood and a mutilated body in the well. The victim was theorized to be a tax collector murdered by bandits.A scientific theory suggests tin mining operations caused minerals to tinge the well water red. The New Inn was informally called "The Bucket of Blood," a name that eventually became official. Another 18th-century myth involves Erasmus Pascoes, a local resident, who allegedly washed his diseased dog in the holy well.Following this act, the local community fell ill, leading to theories of divine anger, spirits' curses, or the dog contaminating the water. This incident further cemented the folklore surrounding both the well and the pub. The blend of real history and folklore makes the pub's name and origins uniquely intriguing. The true history of the well and pub remains open to interpretation.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-bucket-of-blood-and-st-pialas-well atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 11

Reynard’s Cave in England

Hidden in a section of limestone above Dovedale lies Reynard's Cave. The small cave is situated behind a large natural rock arch and the combination is one of the Peak District's most distinctive geoligical features. Excavations in the late 1950s suggested that the cave was used as a spot of temporary refuge during the Neolithic, Roman and Medieval periods. Coins, pottery and other fragments were found from these eras. The cave is also a roosting site during the Winter months for bats. There was a very interesting discovery during 2013 excavation where a tooth was found at the rear of the cave, thought to belong to a brown bear. Archaeologists were unable to determinte how it had ended up in the place it was found. The tooth was dated from scientists at the University of Oxford and dated to be from the Mesolithic period.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/reynards-cave atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 11

Southernmost ATM in McMurdo Station, Antarctica

At the bottom of the world, the world’s southernmost ATM offers an ordinary convenience in one of the least ordinary places on Earth. Located at 77°51′ south, it's the southernmost cash machine in the world—and the only ATM anywhere in Antarctica.The ATM was installed to serve the staff working at McMurdo Station, Antarctica’s largest research base. It functions just like any ATM in the United States, dispensing U.S. dollars to people living and working thousands of miles from the nearest conventional bank. Cash can be used in the station's store, and, before the station went dry, in the two bars.There are actually two ATMs, but only one is functional at a time—the other is used for spare parts. Every two years, Wells Fargo sends a technician to Antarctica for maintenance and upgrades. Cash is recycled between the store and the ATMs, so no new money needs to be delivered to the station.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/southernmost-atm atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 10

James Dalton Trumbo Statue in Grand Junction, Colorado

James Dalton Trumbo was a controversial writer who penned quite a few Hollywood films in his era, including Roman Holiday (1953) and Spartacus [960]. He was one of ten left leaning directors and screenwriters that refused to testify before the House Committee on UnAmerican Activities Committees and as a result, was blacklisted. A Colorado native, Trumbo moved to Grand Junction in 1908 from his birthplace in Montrose. He graduated from Gran Junction High School, served as a reporter for the local paper, and attended CU Boulder.He was a novelist, playwright and screenwriter and won two Academy Awards. He was also famous for writing for hours at a time in his bathtub, a scene this statue commemorates.The statue was the first in a series of installations commemorating the city's famous residents.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/james-dalton-trumbo-statue atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 10

Puente de la Amistad in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay

The Puente de la Amistad (Friendship Bridge) connects the cities of Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil, and Ciudad del Este, Paraguay. Built in 1965 as a symbol of goodwill between the two neighboring countries, the bridge offers beautiful views of the Paraná River just miles from the popular Iguazú Waterfalls.Crossing the bridge can feel less like international travel and more like entering an enormous open-air shopping trip. Thanks to Paraguay’s lax tariff laws, Brazilian locals and tourists stream across in search of deals on electronics, clothing, food, and other goods in Ciudad del Este. The bridge is packed with pedestrians, cars, buses, and sacoleiros—shoppers who make frequent trips to Paraguay to buy goods for resale in Brazil. “Shopping Paris” is a popular mega-mall just feet from the Paraguayan customs office, boasting four floors of stores, restaurants, and even an indoor snow park for skating and sledding.The bargain-hunting frenzy has a stranger side, too. The bridge and its surroundings are notorious for smuggling and tax evasion, with authorities often intercepting goods that exceed customs limits or were never declared. For visitors, the experience is a strange mix of tourism and commerce: you can cross the bridge to score bargains, watch shoppers haul bags of merchandise back to Brazil, enjoy the gorgeous scenery, or simply for the novelty of saying you've walked across an international border.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/puente-de-la-amistad atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 10

The Outer Rim in Seattle, Washington

The Outer Rim is a sci-fi themed coffee shop in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, boasting fan art spanning multiple sci-fi franchises!Opened in late 2023, The Outer Rim is the passion project of graphic designer Martin Kuenn, combining a clean mid century interior design aesthetic with his collection of sci-fi art.You can admire the unique interior design and lovingly curated collection of art/action figures while enjoying a themed drink, as well as a selection of pastries.

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-outer-rim atlasobscura.com

RSS Hunter • Aug 10