Every kid learns about Ancient Rome in school but did we really learn about all of ancient Rome? No way, there are tons of cool facts that are left out of those dry history lessons we sat through in class. So we thought it might be cool to share some facts that prove they didn’t tell us the coolest things about Ancient Rome in school. We hope that you find them as interesting as we did.

Father Knows Best

It is not a surprise that in the old days of Rome, the father of a family was the head of the family and had all the power. But some of the powers that they had were absolutely crazy. They had complete control over everyone’s lives.

This included the ability to disown a newborn and cast them out of the house. All they had to do was say they were unable to feed them, and it was perfectly acceptable. Sounds pretty cruel.

Food Courts

We all have sat in the food court and had lunch with a friend, but did you know that this concept is nothing new. In fact, the ancient Romans had a setup that was pretty similar to this.

They called it a Thermoplia, and it was a counter with clay jars that housed the food. This was a popular place for the commoners to grab a bite, and you could eat in the establishment or take it home.

Returns

In today’s world, we don’t think anything of taking something back to a store when it doesn’t work out. There we can either do a return or get a refund. This ability might not be around if it wasn’t for the ancient Romans.

They were the first civilization that adopted this idea. You could purchase something down the market or from a tradesman, and if you didn’t like it, you could return it to them or even get a replacement. After Christmas would not be the same without them, it appears.

Seasonal Times

The ancient Romans had the same amount of hours in the day, but they did something pretty interesting with the division of those hours. That’s right, it wasn’t an even split, and that made for seasonal times.

Some times of the year, an hour would be 75 minutes; at other times, it would be just 45 minutes; this was because of the fact they split the day up by sunset until dawn and dawn until sunset.

Amphitheaters Matter

Have you been to a concert or sporting event in a big stadium? Then you should probably give a big high five to the ancient Romans. The basic design of our modern stadiums is based on the Roman amphitheater.

The architects of Rome came up with the idea by adjusting aspects from the Greeks and making improvements on them. They made them bigger and made them a complete circle.

Big, Beautiful Eyes

When it comes to beauty trends, often, things go in cycles. Things like big eyes with luscious lashes for ladies have always been something that marked beauty. But sometimes, the meaning and why they were important varies.

In ancient Rome, the thick eyelashes were a sign of chastity. They thought that your eyelashes fell out when you were a little promiscuous. They really thought some pretty crazy things in the past, right?

Let the Party Begin

The Romans knew how to throw parties. One of the biggest was the Saturnalia which was thrown in honor of the god of agriculture, Saturn. This party even saw the slaves having a day of freedom to party it up with their owners.

They were granted the ability to feast at the tables of their owners, and they could also speak their minds when it came to their masters.

One Brow Above All

Today, when someone has a unibrow, they are looked at as unattractive and, at the very least, are the butt of a lot of jokes. But back in the day, those nicely groomed eyebrows were a sign of being common and unintelligent.

The really posh and upper-class Romans all wanted the eyebrows to grow together. This was a sign of true intelligence. Some people have used fake eyebrows or drew them on. Just like today!

Drink Up!

So we might think it is gross and probably a little unsanitary, but in Ancient Rome, many people drink the blood of the mighty warriors of the Colosseum, the gladiators. This may make you a little nauseous, but the Romans had their reasons.

Apparently, imbibing this liquid was said to help with impotence and infertility. People would drink this tonic hoping for the warrior virility to be transferred to them to have more kids.

Purple Was the Color

When you think of royalty, one color comes to mind…purple. Why is that? Back in the ancient world, the ingredients used to get that color were hard to get and rare. This, in turn, made it super expensive.

Because of this rarity and difficulty, the high-class people of ancient Rome were the ones that could purchase fabric made in purple.

They Eat What?

Though Christianity is one of the major religions of the world now, it started as a smaller religion. In fact, back in the day, they were looked at as a cult and frowned upon. During ancient Roman times, there were a lot of falsities about the religion that circulated.

One of the most heinous rumors spread to keep people from converting to this new religion was that they were cannibals. After all, they did eat bread and said it was the flesh of their Christ and the wine was his blood.

He’s the Worst

So on to another horrible ruler and perhaps the worst of them. That emperor would be the famous fiddler of Rome, Nero. He was a different kind of ruler because he had no qualms about being corrupt and was very active in removing any of the people that were in his way.

He might have deteriorated into the crazy ruler we have all learned about, but what we don’t learn is that the first part of his rule was very successful.

Pull in Here

So when we are taught about Rome, we are right about its heyday when it was the heart of the world, but the city started off as a small city that was known for its trade. This made it a trade stop on any routes across the country and the world.

Rome was not what it was called at first; it was Latium. It was a juncture between two major territories, and that is how it became the city it was.

Excuse Me

There was something that many of us were taught or learned that we have to dispel right now. The Romans had a lavish feast with tons of food, and in order to enjoy this, they threw up at some time in the meal.

This is false. Though the feast was lavish and large, they also ran a long time, so they paced themselves. This meant there was no need to binge and purge.

Where Is the Soap?

The people of ancient Rome loved a good bath and staying clean, but they may not have been as clean as we think they were. Today when you get in the shower or tub, you grab that bar of soap to get yourself clean.

But back in ancient Rome, they didn’t use soap. They relied on clean hot water to get their bodies fresh and clean.

Women’s Rights

It may not be the liberties that women of today have, but back in ancient Rome, women had more rights and freedoms than many of the women in other empires of the time. Roman women, unlike many other women, were able to own their own property.

On top of that, Roman women were able to go and come when they wanted. But they were still not able to enter the halls of government.

Twin City

We are taught about Rome, and the empire that came from it but very few of us are taught the story of its founding. It is actually a pretty interesting story. It involves some wolves and a pair of twins.

Two twins were abandoned and found by a she-wolf. The wolf raised them, and they were the ones who found the mighty city of Rome, building it from the core of Latium.

I Will Survive!

When we were taught about the ancient world, one of the things we learned is that it was hard to survive. There were rampant diseases and many things that could kill you, including constant battles.

Because of this, we were told that the mortality rate was very low. But on the whole, the average was not as low as we were told. It was still lower than ours, but it wasn’t as bad as we thought.

Multi-Lingual

What many people don’t think about when they are learning about ancient Rome is that this was a metropolis that saw major trade. The fact it saw so many traders made the city alive with many different tongues.

Many of the merchants were also versed in many languages so they could deal with all the people that came into their city. That meant many of them spoke not only Roman but things like Egyptian, Greek, and Germanic language so they could trade with more people.

Cultural Appropriation

Nowadays, people are very cautious about the idea of cultural appropriation. But back in ancient Rome, it was a basic way of life and the way that empire was able to last as long as it did. They not only added pieces of the concord cultures into their culture but many other things.

Of course, the Romans melded pieces of Greek culture into their world, but many other things from other cultures that they concord.

How About Those Aqueducts!

Like many other things in ancient Rome, the aqueducts are something that stood the test of time. They were so well built that even today, there are examples of them all over the European continent.

The aqueducts were built to last, and they were by far one of the inventions to come from ancient Rome, if not the best. They allowed the empire to deliver water to places that were not close to water.

Check Out the Size of That

Nowadays, there are tons of major cities that you might deem megacities. But back in ancient Rome, there were not very many of them in the world. The first may well have been Rome.

You may want to argue with it, but it is definitely the first. Rome housed at one time over a million people, where places like Babylon only saw a population of 200,000.

Cemented in History

What would the world be without concrete? Many modern buildings use this compound as the foundation, which means we have a lot to thank the Romans for. But our cement is nothing to the Romans!

The Romans used volcanic ash as a core ingredient. This mixed the limestone and seawater made a strong mortar. In fact, this compound only seems to get stronger with time, and that is pretty cool.

Public Restrooms

So one of the things we all learn about ancient Rome is that they were amazing innovators. They came up with some pretty epic things, and that includes bathrooms. This innovation includes the sewer, but the bathrooms of their time were not what we think of.

The bathrooms of ancient Rome were stall-less and a place to socialize. They had fewer inhibitions than we do. So their bathrooms were holes set in benches in a public setting.

Ask Him!

Rome had many emperors that probably were in desperate need of therapy or a little time away in the sanitarium. One of the most famous was Caligula. Besides being accused of killing his family and anybody that stood against him, he also liked to chat up the moon.

Oh yeah, and he fought for his horse to be made a special counsel to the emperor. He must have really liked that horse!

Who’s That Girl?

In Rome, women may have had a lot of rights, but they didn’t have a personal name. Most women would be given a name after their lineage. So if you came from Claudius, you would be Claudia. But what if there was more than one girl in the family?

Well, then you would get a descriptor after your name. So the second Claudia would be Claudia Secunda. And it would go from there.

Thumbs Up!

Hand signals are still used to this day settings to show approval and sometimes to not. But in Ancient Rome, a simple gesture of the hand in the Colosseum could mean a whole world of different things. We all know the thumbs up and thumbs down, but there were others.

If you bend your thumb in any direction, it means the fighter was meant to die. To save the gladiator, a clenched fist was raised in the air.

Big Battle

When you think of the Colosseum, you probably think of gladiatorial fights. But the amphitheater was used for tons of other events as well, including some pretty epic naval battles.

That is right, Emperor Titus actually filled the Colosseum with water and had mock naval battles in it. That sounds pretty cool! What do you think? We wish we could have seen that.

Earn Your Freedom

In ancient Rome, many households owned slaves, but they were able to gain freedom. Sort of once they were freed, they still were required to work for their former owner. On top of that, these freed slaves that were citizens had to vote for their former owners in elections.

They also had to work for them for free and even leave them their property when they passed away. If not, they could be put back into a slave state.

Major Metropolis

It is no surprise that at its height, Rome was the center of the world. It was the heart of the empire and a major trading and cultural center. But how did it stack up against the cities of the modern world?

Well, Rome was a major metropolis that at one time or another was the home of over a million people, which even by today’s standards is pretty big.

Roman Apartments

Nowadays, tons of people live in apartments; in fact, some of those apartments are pretty darn posh. But back in the days of ancient Rome, people with money lived in those villas we all think of when we think of that period.

The poor were the ones that loved the apartments. These apartments were very similar to apartments in cities of today when it comes to layout and planning.

Can You Pass the TP Stick?

There are a lot of things that we can say about the bathroom habits of the Romans, besides doing their duty while they completed business deals. It was all a very communal event. For us, though, the coolest fact had to do with the cleanup.

They didn’t have toilet paper to wipe their bottom, but they didn’t walk around dirty. Instead, they used a sponge on a stick. They called this tool xylospongium.

Ancient Shopping Mall

As teens, we all spent hours hanging out at the local mall. This type of establishment has its roots all the way back to the ancient Romans. They had something called Trajan’s Market in Rome, a place with many private shops.

The market also had several eating and drinking establishments; some of these even administered free food to the shoppers as they perused the goods.

Fight It Out

There were a lot of ways that crimes got punished in the Ancient Roman world. Among them was the punishment of a duel in the Colosseum. But if this was your sentencing, you might not always find yourself fighting another human.

Often you might find yourself up against one of the wild animals kept beneath the amphitheater; this even included a lion. That is some serious punishment!

Get Your Gladiator Swag Here!

Today when you go to an event at a stadium, there are kiosks sitting outside the arena that typically sell hats, tee-shirts, and other paraphernalia for the event. The old world was no different.

Well, that’s not true; they didn’t sell t-shirts and hats. Instead, the kiosk outside the Colosseum sold things like gladiator sweat and the fat of animals that were killed. These were used as cosmetics, among other things.

After centuries of speculation and numerous failed expeditions, scientists have unveiled what they believe to be Noah’s Ark. The discovery, located on Mount Ararat, has generated worldwide interest and reignited the debate over the biblical story’s authenticity. Researchers are now analyzing the structure to determine its origin and significance. Could this be the legendary ark? Experts remain cautious, but the excitement is undeniable.

Science and Skepticism

Before the 18th century, most people regarded the story of Noah’s Ark as absolute truth. They believed Noah built the ark, filled it with animals, and helped start a new civilization after a massive flood. The tale was accepted without question.

However, as science advanced and religious narratives came under scrutiny, skeptics began to view the story as a myth rather than fact. Despite the growing number of doubters, many still believe the story to be true and are convinced that remnants of the ark are waiting to be discovered.

The Ararat Mountains

What happened to Noah, his ark, and the animals onboard? According to the Bible, Noah waited for the waters to subside before making camp on the “mountains of Ararat.” He released a raven and a dove first, followed by the other animals he had protected during the flood.

What many might not realize is that Mount Ararat is a real location. Today, it holds significant scientific, historical, and religious interest – which led an expedition team to explore the site in 2009.

Turkey’s Tallest Summit

To understand the 2009 expedition, it’s important to learn more about Mount Ararat itself. As the highest peak in Turkey, this mountain reaches an incredible 16,854 feet and is located near the borders of Armenia and Iran. Armenians even consider Mount Ararat to be the holiest mountain in the world.

However, scaling this mountain is no easy feat. Its snow-covered peak makes it a treacherous climb year-round. The first successful ascent was in 1829, when the climber grasped the mountain’s profound significance.

The Importance of Preservation

That man was Dr. Friedrich Parrot, who, in 1829, discovered just how sacred Mount Ararat was to the locals. In his writings, Parrot noted, “All the Armenians are firmly persuaded that Noah’s Ark remains to this very day on the top of Ararat, and that no human being is allowed to approach it.”

Despite this belief, others have continued to explore the mountain. While Polo didn’t find anything significant, James Bryce made a startling discovery 50 years later. His findings left historians both shaken and intrigued.

A Significant Discovery

In 1876, James Bryce embarked on his journey up Mount Ararat, not seeking fame or fortune. Unlike treasure hunters or ark seekers, Bryce was a historian, explorer, and Oxford University Professor of Civil Law. His goal was to gather information about the mountain and the story of Noah’s Ark.

Bryce simply wanted to see the legendary mountain with his own eyes. What makes this expedition especially fascinating is that Bryce didn’t even reach the mountain’s summit. Despite this, he uncovered a priceless relic buried in the snow.

An Ancient Timber Beam

As James Bryce made his way up the towering mountain, something unusual caught his eye. Throughout most of his journey, he had only seen typical rocks and boulders, nothing remarkable. But then he noticed something strange.

Sticking out from the snow was what appeared to be a large wooden beam. Bryce tried to lift the beam but found it incredibly heavy, leading him to believe it hadn’t been carried up by any previous explorer. He became convinced it was a piece of Noah’s Ark.

Looking Beyond

With James Bryce’s discovery lingering in the back of their minds, scientists questioned whether he had truly uncovered evidence that Noah’s Ark existed. For decades, they debated how Noah could have navigated the floodwaters with so many animals aboard and what happened to him when he eventually reached Mount Ararat.

However, in the 1960s, a new discovery shook their assumptions. During this period, a man named Ron Wyatt noticed something strange in a photograph taken 18 miles from the peak of Mount Ararat. The object in the image looked suspiciously like a boat.

The Durupınar Archaeological Site

For years, historians have been puzzled by one detail in the Bible. While it states that Noah’s Ark came to rest in the “mountains of Ararat,” technically, there’s only one Mount Ararat. This led experts to believe that the “mountains” referred to a larger region surrounding Mount Ararat.

Ron Wyatt focused on this broader region, particularly the Durupınar site, which he saw in the photo. He believed the formation there, resting on a limonite geological foundation, was solid evidence of the ark’s final resting place.

Excavating a Shipwreck

Wyatt was convinced he had found the buried remains of Noah’s Ark, so he journeyed to the Durupınar site alongside geophysicist John Baumgardner and salvage expert David Fasold. Once the two experts saw the site, they too believed that a shipwreck lay just beneath the surface.

To confirm their suspicions, they employed a controversial tool known as a “frequency generator.” Using this technique, their scans revealed a structure underground that closely matched the dimensions of the ark described in the Bible.

Discovering the Stones

As they explored the area for more relics, the team stumbled upon numerous large drogue stones, which were unlike anything they had encountered before. These stones featured holes at the top, leading Fasold to speculate that they had once served as anchors for Noah’s Ark.

In his expert opinion, these stones would have been crucial during high winds. Eager to validate their findings, the expedition team took their discoveries to experts for confirmation. However, the question remained – how would the experts react to these unusual artifacts?

A Theory in Ruins

Although the expedition team believed they had uncovered the truth behind Noah’s Ark, their claims were met with skepticism. When they presented their findings to geologists and archaeologists, they faced harsh criticism, and their methods were dismissed.

The experts claimed that the “frequency generator” was neither practical nor effective, and the drogue stones were simply grave markers. Consequently, the next group of explorers decided to return to the peak of Mount Ararat for their investigation. This decision ultimately proved fruitful, leading to new discoveries and insights about the legendary ark.

The Great Flood

Explorers find it particularly intriguing that the story of Noah’s Ark isn’t unique to one culture. Throughout history, humans have recounted tales of gods flooding the world to create a fresh start. The intent behind these floods is often to wipe out existing human life and offer a second chance.

These explorers believe there is a deeper connection among these flood stories. They theorize that a singular, overarching narrative may unite them all, suggesting that these accounts reflect shared human experiences and concerns about renewal and survival in the face of divine judgment.

The Epic of Gilgamesh

One of the oldest known flood stories is found in the Epic of Gilgamesh, an epic poem dating back over 4,000 years. The narrative can still be seen on original stone tablets from Babylonian times, providing a glimpse into ancient culture. So, what does this epic reveal? The poem follows King Gilgamesh on his quest for eternal life.

During his travels, Gilgamesh encounters Utnapishtim, who has lived for an exceptionally long time. Gilgamesh asks him to share his story, which turns out to be strikingly similar to the tale of Noah’s Ark.

Crafting a Vessel

Utnapishtim revealed to Gilgamesh that he was forewarned by the god Ea about an impending great flood. To survive, Ea instructed him to construct a large boat. However, the divine intent was not solely for Utnapishtim’s survival; Ea wanted him to save not only himself but also the workers who assisted in building the vessel and the animals from his fields.

Utnapishtim followed these instructions meticulously, completing the boat just in time as the flood swept across the land, obliterating everything he once knew.

Liberation at Last

Utnapishtim completed the boat just in time, as the great flood soon obliterated the world he knew. Despite the fact that The Epic of Gilgamesh predates the Bible, historians find it undeniable that the tales of Utnapishtim and Noah share striking similarities.

This raises an intriguing question – does the resemblance between these stories make them more or less believable? Some might argue that such commonalities across cultures lend credence to the idea of a historical flood event, while others could suggest that the parallels weaken their authenticity.

Global Domination

While it’s difficult to determine the exact truth behind these ancient stories, one thing is certain – the tale of Noah’s Ark has become increasingly recognizable. This popularity also stems from modern retellings that bring the narrative to contemporary audiences.

In 2014, director Darren Aronofsky and actor Russell Crowe joined the conversation with their film Noah. Their adaptation contributed to the ongoing fascination with the story, but it raises an intriguing question… were they aware of the latest explorations of Mount Ararat when creating the film?

A Few Key Differences

While the various flood stories share many similarities, there are also notable differences among them. For instance, the narrative of Noah’s Ark contains its own discrepancies, particularly regarding the animals. One passage mentions that Noah took animals in pairs, while another states he took “seven pairs of every kind of clean animal.”

However, for skeptics, the results of a 2007 expedition to Mount Ararat may offer compelling evidence that could shift their perspective. The discoveries made during this expedition could provide new insights that challenge doubts about the story’s validity.

The NAMI Expedition

In 2007, a coalition of explorers from Turkey and Hong Kong united to uncover the truth about Mount Ararat once and for all. Their mission was to find evidence proving that Noah’s Ark had rested atop the mountain. Dubbed the NAMI Expedition, the team was optimistic about discovering something significant.

However, they quickly realized that scaling Mount Ararat presented numerous challenges. The harsh conditions – cold temperatures, fierce winds, and treacherous snowy terrain – made the climb nearly impossible. The explorers faced legal hurdles that complicated their quest.

Awaiting Permits

Mount Ararat’s strategic location near multiple borders makes it a heavily guarded area. Anyone attempting to scale the mountain without the proper permissions risks immediate warnings. Only those who secure an “Ararat visa” are permitted to climb this iconic peak.

The NAMI Expedition team understood that obtaining such a visa would be a significant challenge. Moreover, if they succeeded in gaining access, they would be restricted to a designated path. This limitation meant their exploration would not be as thorough or expansive as they had hoped.

Ascending the Mountain

The team recognized that obtaining an Ararat visa would be a considerable challenge. Even if they succeeded in securing permission to climb Mount Ararat, they faced further limitations – they would be required to stick to a designated path.

Understanding these constraints, the team felt the weight of their predicament. While they were determined to uncover the secrets of the mountain, the limitations placed on their journey raised concerns about whether they could achieve their goals within such narrow parameters.

Entering the Cavern

After several grueling days of climbing and camping in the frigid snow, the NAMI Expedition finally discovered something that ignited their curiosity. At an altitude of 4,000 meters, they stumbled upon a cave that, to their knowledge, had never been explored before.

However, it wasn’t the cave itself that captivated the explorers; it was what lay within its depths. As they cautiously entered the cave, flashlights illuminating the dark interior and hearts racing with anticipation, they quickly realized they had uncovered what they had been hoping and praying for all along.

Uncovering a Major Find

As the team’s eyes adjusted to the dim light, they were astonished to find a wooden structure concealed within the cave. One of the researchers excitedly shared with reporters, “The structure is partitioned into different spaces. We believe it matches historical accounts and the ancient boat described by locals.”

The implication was clear: they might have found Noah’s Ark. However, the team understood that their claims would not be easily accepted. To substantiate their discovery, they needed to determine the age of the wood and identify its type.

Tracing Origins

The team recognized that while the wood appeared ancient, they needed definitive proof to counter skeptics who might argue it was erected by previous explorers. They successfully collected a wood sample for testing and anxiously awaited the results. Astonishingly, the tests indicated that the wooden structure was approximately 4,800 years old.

However, this revelation raised further questions. The Bible describes Noah’s Ark as being constructed from a type of wood referred to as “gopher wood,” a term that remains enigmatic as it has never been clearly identified outside biblical texts.

A Wood Mystery

With this in mind, the NAMI team felt an even greater sense of urgency to identify the type of wood they had discovered. If they could confirm it was a known species, they might finally shed light on the elusive “gopher wood” described in the Bible.

This heightened pressure was palpable, as prior to this, only speculative theories existed regarding what gopher wood could actually be. The implications were significant; identifying the wood could potentially validate the biblical narrative in a way that had never been achieved before.

Presenting the Evidence

What makes the NAMI Expedition particularly intriguing is the team’s strategic decision to withhold their discovery from the public for three years. Despite uncovering the wooden structure in 2007, they opted to ensure that their findings were thoroughly vetted and authentic before sharing them with the world.

When they finally released their video showcasing the cave and the wooden structure, it quickly captivated online audiences. However, despite their careful preparation, the team was soon met with accusations claiming the discovery was a hoax.

Debunking the Hoax

Critics of the NAMI Expedition certainly acknowledged the authenticity of the video, which clearly showcased a wooden structure. However, they raised serious doubts about the legitimacy of the discovery, suggesting that the team may have staged the find.

They claimed that the wooden structure had previously been located near the Black Sea and was transported to Mount Ararat by hired guides. This allegation of a hoax fueled further controversy, as skeptics posited that the team orchestrated the entire scenario to create the illusion of a groundbreaking discovery.

Searching for Support

Enraged by the persistent criticism, the NAMI Expedition team sought a credible supporter to bolster their claims. They found a strong ally in Muhsin Bulut, the Director of Cultural Ministries in Agri Province. Eager to counter the accusations that the wood had been pre-placed on the mountain, they turned to him for his expert opinion.

Mr. Bulut firmly dismissed the skeptics’ theory, stating that the logistics of transporting heavy timber up a 13,123-foot peak were virtually impossible. His endorsement added a layer of credibility to the expedition’s findings.

Questioning Everything

In the eyes of the NAMI Expedition team, their discovery represented definitive proof that Noah’s Ark was not just a myth but a tangible structure resting near the peak of sacred Mount Ararat. However, the weight of their claims raised profound questions about verifiability. What if they were indeed correct? The implications would be monumental.

The reality of a massive ark saving a diverse array of animal species from a global flood would require a reevaluation of our knowledge of biology, geology, and even history. Such a revelation could lead to paradigm shifts in how we view ancient texts, the evolution of species, and the timeline of Earth’s geological events. The potential fallout from their discovery stretched far beyond the mountain.

Insights from Science

Today, the scientific consensus in geology and biology suggests that the story of Noah’s Ark is unlikely to have occurred as described. Modern biologists utilize advanced techniques to analyze the DNA of fossils. By comparing these genetic codes, they can identify significant changes that might result from catastrophic events such as a global flood.

If such a flood had indeed wiped out vast populations of animals while preserving pairs of each species, we would expect to see distinct genetic markers or shifts in their DNA. However, extensive research has not revealed evidence to support this hypothesis.

Absence of Geological Evidence

However, the absence of biological evidence is not the only issue plaguing the Noah’s Ark narrative. Throughout history, there have been numerous accounts of great floods, yet no geological evidence has substantiated the occurrence of a global deluge.

Experts assert that if such a catastrophic flood had swept across the Earth, it would have left significant traces in the geological record. As of now, no such evidence has been discovered. Despite this overwhelming evidence against the story, many individuals still hold firm beliefs that Noah’s Ark was rooted in actual events.

No Fire Without Smoke

It’s often said that there’s no smoke without fire, and even the most bizarre mythological tales can be influenced by real-life events. As we’ve noted, the story of Noah’s Ark is not the only narrative about a great flood. This leads to a compelling question: is there any truth behind these stories?

Proponents of this theory argue that for a tale to resonate with so many people over millennia, there must be some kernel of truth at its core. They suggest that localized flooding events, perhaps in ancient Mesopotamia, could have inspired these narratives.

A Smaller Flood?

Part of this theory posits that the Great Flood was likely a localized event rather than a global phenomenon. Scientists have uncovered evidence of a significant flood that ravaged ancient Mesopotamia thousands of years ago. Archaeological findings suggest that this catastrophic event led to widespread devastation across the region.

During their investigations, researchers discovered remnants of a large boat that bore striking similarities to the account of Noah’s Ark. This vessel was reportedly used to save both humans and animals from the rising floodwaters.

Is Proof Necessary?

The people who question the legitimacy of the Noah’s Ark story do so because they lack concrete evidence to support it, while believers often see things differently. In their opinion, the narratives within the Bible don’t require physical proof; they trust that God acts with purpose and intention.

While scientists acknowledge this perspective, they remain critical of it, as faith-based reasoning doesn’t satisfy their quest for empirical evidence. This skepticism is why the NAMI Expedition took extra measures to substantiate their findings.

Waiting for Discovery

The NAMI Expedition continues its quest to prove that the wooden structure discovered on Mount Ararat is the very ark that sheltered Noah and the animals during the Great Flood. Until their findings are fully released, a lingering question remains – will others venture up the mountain in search of new evidence?

A significant point of curiosity is whether future explorers will retrace the NAMI team’s steps and investigate the cave they found, or if they will choose to explore other areas of the mountain. The allure of Mount Ararat remains strong.

Planning Future Expeditions

The timeline for these adventures remains uncertain. Obtaining an Ararat Visa is no easy feat, and the Turkish government has become even more stringent since the NAMI Expedition. The NAMI team’s actions during their climb reportedly angered officials deeply.

Their expedition raised questions and concerns about the preservation of the site, leading to increased scrutiny of those seeking to explore the mountain. As explorers prepare to tackle the challenges of scaling Ararat, they must navigate not only the physical demands of the ascent but also the complex bureaucratic hurdles that come with it.

Facing Trouble

When you make significant claims, you must be prepared to substantiate them. Recognizing this, the NAMI team decided to take samples of the wooden beams they discovered in the cave on Mount Ararat for further analysis. Their aim was to carbon-date the wood, a crucial step in verifying its age.

However, this decision did not sit well with the Turkish government. Taking artifacts from such a culturally and historically significant site raised concerns about preservation and national heritage. The government’s response to NAMI’s actions led to a tightening of regulations.

The Future at Risk

Given the recent developments, it’s expected that the Turkish government will implement even stricter regulations for explorers aiming to investigate Mount Ararat. This could jeopardize future expeditions and limit further discoveries related to this iconic site and the legend of Noah’s Ark.

So, what’s the prevailing view? Is the ancient tale rooted in truth, or is it merely a myth with no scientific foundation? The findings from the NAMI Expedition certainly added a twist to the narrative, sparking renewed interest and debate.

A New Interest

Regardless of your stance on the NAMI Expedition’s findings, it’s undeniable that they’ve sparked a renewed interest in the Great Flood and the existence of Noah’s Ark.

On one side, there’s a wooden structure resembling a boat, dating back to a time that aligns with the proposed flood. On the other, a body of scientific research suggests a lack of evidence for such catastrophic waters.

An Unresolved Mystery

Yet, these narratives-whether it’s the story of Noah or other flood myths – continue to resonate and inspire. They provoke thought, discussion, and exploration, reminding us of our enduring fascination with history, mythology, and the mysteries of our past.

As debates continue, these stories will undoubtedly remain a significant part of our cultural and spiritual dialogue. Many believe there’s a significant piece of evidence yet to be discovered that could definitively prove the existence of Noah’s Ark and validate the Great Flood.

Awaiting Discovery

Such a discovery would not only reshape our understanding of history but also challenge critics to reevaluate their views on the Bible and religion as a whole. While this elusive evidence remains unfound – perhaps even beyond our lifetime – the intrigue surrounding the story persists.

Noah’s Ark continues to be a controversial and captivating subject in the exploration community, driving researchers and adventurers alike to seek answers. As discussions evolve and expeditions take shape, the legacy of this ancient tale remains alive, ensuring that the quest for knowledge continues.

William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest writer in the English language, reshaped literature with his remarkable plays and poetry. Born in 1564, his works have transcended time, still resonating with audiences centuries later. This article delves into the life of Shakespeare, exploring his early years, his most renowned plays, and the lasting legacy he left on literature, theater, and the English language that continues to inspire generations.

Early Years in Stratford

William Shakespeare was born in 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. His father, John, was a prosperous glove maker, and his mother, Mary, came from a wealthy family. Shakespeare likely attended the local grammar school, where he learned Latin and Greek.

The town’s lively market and proximity to theater performances may have also inspired his future career. Little is known about his adolescence, but he married Anne Hathaway at 18. By the late 1580s, Shakespeare had left Stratford for London.

A Family’s Beginnings

Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway in 1582, and the couple had three children: Susanna and twins Hamnet and Judith. Though Shakespeare spent much of his time in London, his family remained important to him. The loss of his son Hamnet in 1596 had a profound impact.

Shakespeare made sure his family was well taken care of financially. Even though he lived apart from them, his family life deeply influenced his plays, weaving in themes of love, loss, and family.

The London Calling

By the late 1580s, Shakespeare had made his way to London, where the theater world was thriving. The city’s bustling entertainment scene offered Shakespeare numerous opportunities to showcase his talent. He became involved with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, a leading theater company, and began writing plays for their performances.

The success of his works in London marked the beginning of his reputation as a master playwright, leading to the creation of iconic plays that remain beloved to this day.

Shakespeare’s First Steps

Shakespeare’s arrival in London remains a mystery, but it’s believed he began his career as an actor before transitioning to playwright. In the early 1590s, he wrote plays like Henry VI, which gained attention for their vivid characters and historical narratives.

During this time, Shakespeare also began his sonnet sequence, expanding his literary influence. The 1590s marked the beginning of Shakespeare’s remarkable success, paving the way for his future masterpieces.

The Birth of a Playwright

Shakespeare’s career as a playwright began in earnest in the early 1590s. His first plays were performed by popular acting companies, quickly gaining recognition for their complex characters and plots. His ability to blend history with drama and combine tragedy with comedy made his work stand out.

By the time he wrote Romeo and Juliet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, his reputation as a playwright was firmly established.

Struggles in the Spotlight

Despite his success, Shakespeare faced challenges during his rise to fame. The competitive theater scene in London was often filled with rivalries between playwrights and acting companies. Shakespeare’s work, though popular, was not without criticism.

Several of his early plays, such as Titus Andronicus, were harshly reviewed. Moreover, Shakespeare’s involvement in the business side of theater exposed him to financial risks, especially during times when the city faced political unrest.

Shakespeare’s Theater Revolution

Shakespeare’s influence on theater went beyond his plays. His work helped revolutionize the stage by bringing a new level of complexity to characters and plots. He created plays that appealed to all social classes. His plays also incorporated rich language and layered dialogue, bringing an intellectual depth to the stage.

The Globe Theater, which opened in 1599, became the heart of his success, allowing Shakespeare to stage his groundbreaking plays for larger audiences, ultimately making a lasting mark on English theater.

The Globe Opens

In 1599, Shakespeare and his acting company, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, opened the Globe Theater in London. This iconic venue, built on the south bank of the River Thames, became the home for many of Shakespeare’s greatest plays.

The open-air theater allowed for larger audiences and offered a more dynamic and immersive experience. The Globe was also significant because it provided Shakespeare with creative freedom, as he was part-owner. The theater’s success and Shakespeare’s association with it cemented his reputation.

A Master of Words

Shakespeare’s mastery of language is one of the reasons his works continue to captivate audiences centuries later. His command of both prose and verse allowed him to create rich, memorable characters and complex narratives.

From the passionate speeches of Macbeth to the witty banter in Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare’s use of language elevated the English language itself. He coined many words and expressions still used today.

The Rise of a Star

Shakespeare’s rise to fame was swift, beginning with the success of his early plays. By the early 1590s, he was well-known within the London theater scene. His association with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men helped solidify his status as a leading playwright, with plays like The Taming of the Shrew and Richard III drawing large crowds.

Shakespeare’s ability to produce popular works across genres — from historical plays to comedies — made him a star in a crowded field. His increasing fame also led to financial success.

Shakespeare’s Iconic Characters

Shakespeare’s ability to create complex, multifaceted characters is one of his defining traits. From the tragic Hamlet to the scheming Lady Macbeth, his characters resonate with audiences due to their depth and relatability.

Many of Shakespeare’s plays feature characters who face internal struggles, torn between conflicting desires or moral dilemmas. These characters remain the subject of intense study and adaptation, influencing countless interpretations across stage, film, and literature.

Love, Tragedy, and Comedy

Shakespeare’s works span a wide range of genres, but love, tragedy, and comedy are recurring themes that define much of his output. His tragedies, such as Macbeth, Othello, and King Lear, explore the darker aspects of human nature, focusing on themes like ambition, jealousy, and madness.

Meanwhile, his comedies, like Twelfth Night and As You Like It, emphasize love, wit, and mistaken identities. His exploration of both tragic and comedic elements allowed him to create works that resonate deeply with audiences across all generations.

The Early Sonnets

Shakespeare’s Sonnets, written in the early 1590s, are some of the most famous poems in the English language. These 154 sonnets explore themes of love, beauty, time, and mortality, often addressing a young man, a dark lady, and the passage of life.

His sonnets reveal his introspective nature, as well as his mastery of the English language. The form allowed Shakespeare to express personal thoughts, and the intense emotional depth of many of these sonnets has made them enduring works of literature.

The Dark Lady’s Mystery

Shakespeare’s Sonnets introduce the mysterious figure known as the “Dark Lady,” whose identity remains a subject of debate. She is the subject of many of the later sonnets, and her relationship with Shakespeare is one of the most intriguing aspects of the sequence. Described as alluring yet cruel, she embodies Shakespeare’s exploration of the complexities of love, desire, and infidelity.

Scholars have long speculated about the identity of the Dark Lady. Theories range from her being a real woman of Shakespeare’s time — possibly a mistress, a lover, or a muse — to the possibility that she is a fictional or symbolic creation.

The Rivalries of the Bard

Shakespeare’s career wasn’t without its share of rivalries. He often competed with other prominent playwrights of the time, including Christopher Marlowe and Ben Jonson. These rivals challenged his works, sometimes critiquing his style or competing for the favor of audiences.

Shakespeare’s ability to consistently produce high-quality works, while adapting to the tastes of the period, allowed him to remain the dominant figure in Elizabethan theater. The competition only spurred Shakespeare to innovate, and his works outlasted those of many contemporaries.

A Playwright’s Prosperity

By the late 1590s, Shakespeare had achieved significant financial and artistic success. His association with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men helped him prosper, both as a playwright and shareholder in the Globe Theater. Shakespeare’s plays were performed regularly, drawing large crowds and boosting his reputation.

He continued to write prolifically, producing iconic plays such as Hamlet, Julius Caesar, and The Tempest. This success allowed him to purchase property in Stratford, cementing his position as both a respected writer and wealthy businessman.

The Influence of Rome

Shakespeare’s plays were deeply influenced by Roman history and literature. Works like Julius Caesar, Coriolanus, and Antony and Cleopatra reflect his fascination with ancient Rome’s political intrigue, power struggles, and the clash between personal ambition and public duty.

Shakespeare often used Roman themes to explore universal human experiences, such as betrayal, honor, and loyalty. His portrayal of historical figures like Caesar and Cleopatra transformed them into complex characters who transcended their historical contexts.

Shakespeare and the Queen

Queen Elizabeth I had a profound influence on Shakespeare’s career. As the monarch of England during Shakespeare’s most productive years, she was a patron of the arts, fostering an environment in which theater could thrive. Elizabeth enjoyed Shakespeare’s plays, and her court frequently attended performances, creating a demand for new works.

Shakespeare’s ability to navigate the court’s expectations while still maintaining his creative freedom helped solidify his success. He may have also been influenced by her reign, which brought a sense of stability and national pride.

The Lost Years Mystery

Shakespeare’s early years in London are often referred to as the “lost years.” Between his marriage to Anne Hathaway in 1582 and his known involvement in theater in the late 1580s, there is little documentation of his activities. This gap has led to much speculation about his life, with some theorizing that he may have worked as a schoolteacher, a lawyer’s clerk, or even traveled abroad.

These missing years have only added to the intrigue surrounding Shakespeare’s life. These unanswered questions only deepen the mystery of Shakespeare, making his life as compelling as his plays.

England’s Theater Renaissance

The late 16th century saw a dramatic shift in English theater, coinciding with Shakespeare’s rise to fame. This period, often referred to as England’s Theater Renaissance, was marked by a surge of creativity and the flourishing of playwrights, actors, and theater companies.

Shakespeare’s works played a central role in this cultural renaissance. He wrote plays that blended elements of classical theater with innovative techniques, including complex character development and intricate plots.

Shakespeare’s Historic Impact

Shakespeare’s impact on literature and culture is immeasurable, as his works continue to be studied, adapted, and performed worldwide, shaping generations of writers, actors, and directors. His exploration of universal themes — love, betrayal, ambition, and mortality — resonates with audiences across cultures and time periods, highlighting the timeless nature of his insights into the human experience.

Beyond his storytelling, Shakespeare enriched the English language by coining new words and expressions, many of which remain in common use today. His contributions to both language and narrative structure ensure his lasting influence in shaping how we understand and interpret the world.

The Great Tragedies

Shakespeare’s great tragedies — Hamlet, Othello, Macbeth, and King Lear — are some of the most powerful works in the literary canon. These plays delve into the complexities of the human condition, exploring themes of ambition, jealousy, love, and revenge.

The tragic flaws of Shakespeare’s characters, from Hamlet’s indecision to Macbeth’s unchecked ambition, create a sense of inevitable doom. Shakespeare’s tragedies are revered for their emotional depth and moral ambiguity.

Comedies that Captivated Audiences

Shakespeare’s comedies are renowned for their wit, humor, and clever plots. Works like A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, and Much Ado About Nothing showcase his talent for creating intricate, fast-paced narratives filled with mistaken identities, witty dialogue, and love triangles.

These comedies often explore themes of love, marriage, and the contrast between reality and illusion. Shakespeare’s comedies are celebrated for their joyful resolution of conflict, offering audiences a glimpse into the lighter side of life.

The Power of History Plays

Shakespeare’s history plays, such as Richard III, Henry V, and Henry IV, showcase his deep understanding of politics, power, and leadership. These plays focus on the lives of English monarchs and the political struggles that shaped the nation’s history.

Through his portrayal of figures like Richard III and Henry V, Shakespeare explored the complexities of leadership, ambition, and morality. His history plays not only provided entertainment but also offered reflections on the nature of power and the cost of ambition.

The Poetic Genius Unveiled

Shakespeare’s mastery of poetry is exemplified not only in his plays but in his renowned sonnets. The 154 sonnets explore themes of love, beauty, time, and mortality, using the traditional sonnet form to craft intricate emotional expressions.

His command over iambic pentameter and his masterful use of metaphor, rhyme, and rhythm elevated his poetry to unparalleled heights. Shakespeare’s ability to blend these elements with remarkable precision not only defined the structure of his verse but also deepened its emotional resonance.

Global Impact

The cultural influence of William Shakespeare extends far beyond the world of literature. His works have shaped Western thought, inspired countless adaptations in theater, film, and literature, and influenced cultural movements worldwide. Shakespeare’s exploration of human nature, from love to betrayal, resonated across cultures and centuries.

Shakespeare played a pivotal role in elevating the English language, coining words and phrases that are still in use today, enriching the way we communicate. His inventive use of language, from metaphors to newly coined expressions, expanded the expressive capabilities of the English language.

The Globe Theater’s Legacy

The Globe Theater, opened in 1599, is one of the most iconic symbols of Shakespeare’s lasting legacy. It was where many of his greatest works were first performed and played a key role in revolutionizing theater by making plays accessible to a broader audience, including all social classes.

It was a place where innovation in stagecraft, audience interaction, and performance flourished. Although the original Globe was destroyed by fire in 1613, its legacy lives on, with modern reconstructions in London preserving Shakespeare’s theatrical innovations for future generations.

A Playwright for All Ages

Shakespeare’s works have transcended time, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. His ability to weave universal themes — such as love, ambition, and betrayal — into engaging narratives has ensured that his plays remain relevant across generations.

From young students encountering his works in the classroom to seasoned theatergoers attending productions, Shakespeare’s appeal is broad and enduring. His rich character development and exploration of complex emotions speak to both young and old, making his plays accessible and relatable.

Shakespeare’s Cultural Influence

Shakespeare played a key role in the cultural renaissance of Elizabethan England. The flowering of arts and literature during this time was supported by a stable government and an expanding middle class, creating a fertile ground for Shakespeare’s creative expression.

His works helped to define the period, blending classical influences with innovative storytelling techniques. Shakespeare’s plays brought new life to both the English language and theater, expanding the possibilities of dramatic expression.

The Death of a Master

William Shakespeare died on April 23, 1616, at the age of 52. Though his death marked the end of his prolific writing career, it did not signify the end of his legacy. Shakespeare was buried in Stratford-upon-Avon, where his gravestone bears a now-famous curse, supposedly to prevent the disturbance of his remains.

At the time of his death, he was widely respected as one of the most accomplished playwrights in England. His works, however, would continue to grow in influence, and his reputation as the literary master of his time only strengthened after his passing.

Shakespeare’s Final Works

Shakespeare’s final plays, written in the early 1600s, represent a shift in his creative style. These plays, including The Tempest, Cymbeline, and The Winter’s Tale, are often categorized as “romances” due to their focus on reconciliation, forgiveness, and redemption. Unlike his earlier tragedies, these works feature more optimistic themes and often involve miraculous events, offering a sense of closure and hope.

Shakespeare’s later plays were deeply reflective of his own life, as they explore the passage of time, the effects of aging, and the possibility of renewal, marking the culmination of his extraordinary literary career.

The Legacy Lives On

The legacy of William Shakespeare continues to thrive more than four centuries after his death. His plays are performed in theaters around the world, his poetry is studied by students, and his characters and themes inspire countless modern adaptations. Shakespeare’s ability to capture the depth of human emotion and conflict ensures that his works remain as relevant today as when they were first written.

Through his immense influence on the English language, literature, and theater, Shakespeare’s legacy is immortalized, shaping the future of storytelling and art for generations to come.

Shakespeare’s Influence on Language

Shakespeare’s contribution to the English language is immense. He is credited with coining over 1,700 words and popularizing countless phrases. Words like “eyeball,” “bedroom,” and “swagger” can be traced back to Shakespeare’s plays.

His inventive use of language added richness to the English language, transforming simple dialogue into eloquent verse. Beyond vocabulary, his ability to express complex emotions through dialogue helped shape modern English.

Unveiling Shakespeare’s Greatest Mysteries

William Shakespeare’s life is shrouded in mysteries, with many unanswered questions surrounding his personal experiences. One of the biggest mysteries is the true identity of the “Dark Lady” from his sonnets, whose identity has fueled speculation for centuries. Another enigma is Shakespeare’s “lost years,” a period between his marriage and his known career in London.

Scholars also debate whether Shakespeare wrote all the works attributed to him, with various theories proposing alternative authors. Despite these mysteries, Shakespeare’s work remains unparalleled, and the intrigue surrounding his life only adds to his allure, making him a figure of constant fascination.

From Stratford to the World

Shakespeare’s journey from his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon to becoming a literary giant is a remarkable one. Born into a modest family, he quickly rose to prominence in London’s vibrant theater scene, where his works began to captivate audiences. His involvement with the Lord Chamberlain’s Men, the company that performed many of his plays, played a major role in his success.

From the opening of the Globe Theater in 1599 to his investment in the business of theater, Shakespeare expanded his influence both as a playwright and a savvy entrepreneur. By co-owning the Globe, he became an integral part of the London theater scene, not just as a writer, but as a key figure in the production and performance of his works.

The Shakespearean Revolution

The Shakespearean Revolution refers to the profound transformation Shakespeare brought to English theater. He redefined dramatic structure, character development, and language, moving away from the rigid, formulaic plays of the past.

His works introduced complex, multidimensional characters, blending tragedy, comedy, and history in a way that had never been seen before. Shakespeare’s ability to weave intricate plots and explore universal themes such as love, ambition, and betrayal set his works apart.

The Bard’s Timeless Influence

Shakespeare’s influence extends far beyond his era, touching everything from philosophy to politics. His themes of love, ambition, betrayal, and power resonate deeply with audiences, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. His innovative use of language has enriched the English language, making it more expressive and nuanced.

Additionally, Shakespeare’s works have inspired countless artists, writers, and thinkers, forging a lasting legacy that continues to shape how we interpret the world around us. His influence extends far beyond literature, impacting visual arts, film, music, and philosophy.

Shakespeare’s Words Never Fade

Shakespeare’s words have never faded, continuing to echo through history and culture. His works have had a profound impact on the English language, with many phrases and words he coined still in use today.

Lines like “To be or not to be” and “All that glitters is not gold” have become part of the collective lexicon. His plays have been adapted countless times, showing the lasting power of his words to speak across centuries, connecting people worldwide with their timeless wisdom.

Celebrating the Bard’s Legacy

William Shakespeare’s legacy is celebrated worldwide, from theater productions to academic studies, with his influence permeating every aspect of modern culture. His works have been adapted into films, books, and art, ensuring his stories continue to reach new audiences.

Through his exploration of human nature, Shakespeare crafted characters and themes that transcend time and place, making his works universally relatable. His vivid portrayals of love, ambition, jealousy, and moral conflict mirror the complexities of the human experience, allowing audiences from different eras and cultures to see themselves in his stories.

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city frozen in time, offers a haunting glimpse into the past. Buried under volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, its preserved streets, homes, and artifacts reveal the daily lives of its people — and their tragic demise. This blend of terror and fascination draws millions each year, eager to explore the ruins and uncover the stories of a city abruptly silenced by nature’s fury.

Daily Life in Pompeii

Life in Pompeii was vibrant and noisy, filled with the hustle of merchants, bakers, and artisans. The scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the tang of fish sauce from market stalls, while lively conversations and occasional shouting matches echoed through the narrow streets. Lavishly decorated homes showcased the wealth of some citizens, while public spaces buzzed with social activity.

Pompeians loved their leisure time, flocking to bathhouses, theaters, and wine-soaked feasts. The city thrived on a blend of hard work and indulgence. Yet, all this unfolded under the silent gaze of Mount Vesuvius.

Vibrant Markets and Trade

Pompeii’s markets were the heart of the city, bustling with vendors selling everything from olives to exotic spices. Shoppers haggled over prices while inspecting fresh produce, handmade pottery, and luxurious fabrics imported from distant lands. The Forum, the central marketplace, was not just about buying goods but also about catching up on gossip or sharing the latest news from Rome.

Trade routes brought goods and culture from across the empire, turning Pompeii into a melting pot of flavors and ideas. Amid the chaos, merchants perfected their sales pitches, sometimes with exaggerated claims.

Art and Murals of Pompeii

Pompeii’s walls were its storytellers, adorned with stunning frescoes that depicted mythology, nature, and everyday life. Wealthy residents flaunted their status by commissioning elaborate murals to decorate their villas. Common themes included Dionysian parties, idyllic landscapes, and scenes of domestic bliss — sometimes more idealized than real!

Even public spaces displayed vibrant art, from tavern walls showing cheeky graffiti to temples with intricate mosaics. These preserved masterpieces give us a colorful window into the tastes and creativity of Pompeians.

Pompeii’s Social Classes

From elite aristocrats to humble slaves, Pompeii’s social structure was as layered as its volcanic ruins. The wealthy lived in grand villas with atria and private gardens, while the working class resided in modest apartments or workshops. Slaves, though integral to the economy, lived under strict conditions and had little personal freedom.

Despite the divides, Pompeii’s streets brought people together. Aristocrats might pass freedmen running shops, while slaves carried goods to market. Social mobility, though rare, was possible — many freed slaves became successful merchants, proving that even in Pompeii, life could take surprising turns.

Entertainment in Ancient Pompeii

Pompeians loved a good spectacle, and their theaters and amphitheaters were always buzzing with excitement. Gladiator matches drew massive crowds eager to cheer — or jeer — the combatants. Plays, often comedies or tragedies, entertained the masses with dramatic flair and occasional bawdy humor.

Street performers also captivated passersby with acrobatics, music, or magic tricks. Even the city’s taverns became impromptu entertainment hubs, with heated dice games and lively debates. Life in Pompeii wasn’t just about survival — it was about finding joy, laughter, and perhaps a little drama in every day.

The Forum: City Center

The Forum was the beating heart of Pompeii, where politics, religion, and commerce collided. This open-air plaza was a hub for debates, religious ceremonies, and market stalls offering everything from bread to bronze. Citizens gathered here to hear political announcements or simply catch up on local gossip.

Flanked by grand temples and administrative buildings, the Forum reflected the city’s wealth and importance. Whether you were a senator or a street vendor, the Forum was the place to see and be seen. It was Pompeii’s social media — minus the hashtags and selfies!

Baths: A Roman Luxury

Pompeians took bathing seriously — perhaps more seriously than anything else! The city’s bathhouses weren’t just for hygiene, but were social hotspots where people mingled, gossiped, and even conducted business. Facilities included hot, warm, and cold baths, with underfloor heating showcasing Roman engineering genius.

Rich or poor, everyone enjoyed this daily ritual. While the wealthy splurged on luxurious bathhouses, even public baths were well-equipped. It was the perfect place to relax, network, or simply escape the stresses of Roman life — like debating whose turn it was to bring the wine to dinner.

Religion in Pompeii

Pompeii was deeply religious, with gods and goddesses influencing every aspect of life. Temples dedicated to Jupiter, Apollo, and Venus dotted the city, serving as spiritual and community hubs. Household shrines honored deities and ancestors, ensuring divine blessings on daily activities.

Festivals brought the city to life with parades, sacrifices, and feasts. Religion wasn’t just a duty — it was woven into the fabric of Pompeii’s identity. Even graffiti referenced prayers and offerings, proving that spirituality thrived alongside markets and theater performances.

Pompeii’s Stunning Architecture

Pompeii’s architecture showcased Roman innovation and artistry. From grand villas with open atria to practical multi-story apartments, the city’s buildings balanced functionality with beauty. Intricate mosaics, marble columns, and colorful frescoes adorned many interiors, highlighting Pompe ians’ appreciation for aesthetics.

Public buildings like temples, bathhouses, and theaters displayed engineering brilliance, reflecting the city’s status and wealth. Walking through Pompeii today feels like stepping into an ancient blueprint of urban design, complete with cobbled streets and sophisticated drainage systems.

Mount Vesuvius: A Looming Threat

Mount Vesuvius loomed silently over Pompeii, its majestic peaks blending seamlessly into the landscape. To the people of Pompeii, it was just another part of their idyllic surroundings, a mountain offering fertile soil and a picturesque backdrop. Little did they know, this “gentle giant” harbored a catastrophic secret. Despite occasional tremors, Pompeians lived their lives with little concern for volcanic dangers.

The lack of understanding about such natural phenomena made Vesuvius’s eventual eruption a shocking and devastating event. In hindsight, the mountain’s quiet presence was less serene and more foreboding — a silent countdown to disaster.

The Day Vesuvius Erupted

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD turned a vibrant city into a deathly silence. It began with a massive plume of ash and pumice shooting miles into the sky, blanketing Pompeii in darkness. Residents fled in chaos, their streets choked with falling debris.

Pyroclastic flows, waves of superheated gas and ash, swept through the city, sealing its fate. Those who remained were forever preserved in haunting detail, caught mid-motion by the volcanic surge. It was a day of unimaginable terror, transforming Pompeii into an archaeological time capsule.

Escaping the Ash Cloud

When the skies darkened and ash began to rain down, panic gripped Pompeii. Many fled toward the coast, hoping to find safety on the water. Others sought refuge in their homes, believing the storm would pass. Unfortunately, the relentless onslaught left few places to hide.

Survivors’ accounts, like Pliny the Younger’s letters, describe the chaos vividly. Some managed to escape to neighboring towns, but for most, there was no escape from the suffocating ash and the fury of Vesuvius. Their frantic decisions paint a poignant picture of humanity facing the wrath of nature.

Preserved in Volcanic Ash

Pompeii’s tragic burial in volcanic ash became its salvation for posterity. The thick layers of ash acted like a time capsule, preserving buildings, artifacts, and even the remains of its people. Streets, temples, and homes remained eerily intact, offering a rare snapshot of Roman life.

The ash also preserved everyday items like bread, tools, and graffiti, giving archaeologists unparalleled insight into Pompeii’s culture. What was once a bustling city became a frozen tableau of human activity, forever captured in its final moments.

Rediscovering Pompeii’s Ruins

Pompeii lay hidden beneath volcanic ash for nearly 1,700 years before its rediscovery in the 18th century. Early excavations were less about archaeology and more about treasure hunting, with artifacts whisked away to royal collections.

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Over time, systematic digs revealed a city frozen in tragedy. Streets, frescoes, and human casts emerged, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Roman life. Today, ongoing excavations to uncover secrets, making Pompeii a place of endless discovery — and a reminder of the delicate balance between life and nature.

Pompeii’s Human Casts

One of Pompeii’s most haunting discoveries was the creation of plaster casts of its victims. These casts captured the final moments of people and animals, frozen mid-struggle as they succumbed to the volcanic surge. Their poses — some clutching loved ones, others shielding themselves — tell heart-wrenching stories of desperation.

The casts aren’t just archaeological artifacts; they’re windows into human resilience and tragedy. Seeing these lifelike forms in their ashen tombs is a chilling yet profoundly moving experience, reminding visitors of the fragility of life in the face of nature’s fury.

The Streets of Pompeii

Pompeii’s streets were the veins of the city, bustling with carts, pedestrians, and vendors. Cobblestone paths featured distinct grooves worn by centuries of wagon wheels, while stepping stones allowed pedestrians to cross without dirtying their sandals.

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Graffiti adorned the walls, ranging from political slogans to cheeky jokes. Taverns and shops lined the streets, offering food, drink, and goods to passersby. Walking Pompeii’s streets today feels like stepping back in time, with every stone whispering stories of a once-thriving city.

Homes Frozen in Time

Pompeii’s homes were as diverse as its people, ranging from humble dwellings to sprawling villas. Wealthy residents decorated their homes with lavish mosaics, fountains, and frescoes depicting mythological scenes or pastoral landscapes. Atria and gardens added to their charm.

Even the simplest homes provide insight into daily life, with preserved kitchens, furniture, and household items. Stepping into these spaces feels like visiting a friend who just stepped out — a surreal reminder of lives interrupted mid-routine.

Preserved Temples and Shrines

Pompeii was rich in spirituality, with temples and shrines scattered throughout the city. The Temple of Jupiter dominated the Forum, while smaller temples honored Venus and Apollo. Even homes had a lararium — small shrines for household gods.

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These sacred spaces were adorned with statues, altars, and offerings. They reveal the deep connection Pompeians had with their faith, seeking guidance and protection from their gods. Ironically, even divine favor couldn’t save the city from Vesuvius’s wrath.

Frescoes of Pompeian Life

Pompeii’s frescoes are vibrant windows into the city’s soul, capturing its mythology, daily routines, and flair for beauty. Wealthy homes boasted elaborate wall paintings depicting gods, nature, and even romantic or risqué scenes. Public spaces weren’t left out, with lively murals gracing taverns and bathhouses.

These frescoes are surprisingly relatable — showing everything from luxurious feasts to a fisherman’s simple life. They’re not just art; they’re stories frozen in time, painted with bold colors that have miraculously endured. The humor and humanity of these pieces remind us that Pompeii’s people weren’t so different from us.

Tools and Artifacts Found

The tools and artifacts unearthed in Pompeii tell the story of a city at work. Blacksmiths’ hammers, farmers’ plows, and bakers’ bread molds showcase the craftsmanship that fueled its economy. Even delicate items like jewelry and perfume bottles offer glimpses of everyday life.

What’s striking is how advanced these tools were. From medical instruments to intricate locks, Pompeii’s residents were innovators. Holding these items today feels like shaking hands with history — except history might remind you to return that borrowed hammer!

Pompeii’s Role in Roman Economy

Pompeii was a bustling trade hub, thanks to its fertile soil and prime location near the coast. The city exported wine, olive oil, and fish sauce, all highly prized across the Roman Empire. Merchants thrived here, making Pompeii an economic jewel in the Roman crown.

Its markets were alive with transactions, from local farmers selling produce to traders dealing in luxury goods. Pompeii wasn’t just a city; it was a vital cog in the Roman machine, blending commerce with culture in a way that kept its economy thriving.

Advanced Plumbing Systems Revealed

Pompeii’s plumbing was ahead of its time, with aqueducts delivering water to fountains, baths, and private homes. Lead pipes, though problematic by today’s standards, were a Roman engineering marvel. Public baths and latrines showcased the city’s commitment to hygiene and convenience.

The sophistication of these systems highlights the ingenuity of Pompeii’s residents. Sure, they didn’t know about lead poisoning, but their focus on water access and sanitation remains impressive. Walking among these ancient pipes feels like touring the first drafts of modern infrastructure.

Theaters and Amphitheaters Discovered

Pompeii’s love for drama and spectacle was evident in its grand theaters and amphitheaters. Plays, both comedic and tragic, drew crowds eager for entertainment, while gladiator battles thrilled audiences with their raw intensity. These venues weren’t just places for leisure — they were cultural epicenters.

The amphitheater, one of the oldest in the Roman world, still stands as a testament to their architectural genius. Imagine the roar of the crowd as gladiators entered the arena, or the laughter echoing during a bawdy comedy. Pompeians knew how to put on a show!

Ancient Kitchens and Food

Pompeii’s kitchens reveal a rich culinary culture centered around fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Clay ovens, grinding stones, and cooking pots hint at meals of bread, fish, olives, and spiced stews. Taverns and street vendors catered to those too busy — or too lazy — to cook at home.

Even carbonized loaves of bread have been discovered, perfectly preserved by Vesuvius’s ash. It’s a poignant reminder of the lives cut short, and the meals left uneaten. From rustic recipes to luxurious banquets, Pompeians shared our universal love for food.

Jewelry and Personal Items

Pompeii’s jewelry and personal items reveal the style and identity of its people. Gold rings, intricate bracelets, and delicate hairpins were not just accessories — they were statements of status and taste. Even children wore charms to ward off bad luck.

These artifacts bring a personal touch to Pompeii’s story. It’s one thing to see a grand villa, but another to hold a pendant someone cherished. These intimate details remind us of the humanity behind the ruins — proof that even 2,000 years ago, people loved to accessorize.

Hidden Messages in Graffiti

Pompeii’s graffiti is ancient social media at its finest. Scrawled on walls, these messages range from political endorsements to personal insults and declarations of love. Some are poetic, others downright crude — proof that humor and snark transcend centuries.

One famous piece reads, “I admire you, wall, for not collapsing under the weight of so much nonsense.” These writings give Pompeii a unique voice, revealing the hopes, jokes, and frustrations of its people. They’re a candid look at a city buzzing with life.

Unearthing Pompeii’s Skeletons

The skeletons found in Pompeii tell haunting stories of lives interrupted. Many were discovered huddled in groups, seeking shelter from the eruption. Others were found clutching valuables, a testament to the human instinct to protect what we hold dear.

These remains offer insight into health, diet, and even social status. Scientists have pieced together the faces and lives of Pompeii’s people, bringing their stories to light. It’s both sobering and fascinating — a reminder that history is made up of individuals with hopes and fears, just like us.

Secrets Beneath the Ash

Beneath Pompeii’s volcanic burial lie secrets still being uncovered. Hidden rooms, tunnels, and even entire villas to emerge, adding depth to our understanding of the city. Recent discoveries include intact mosaics, mysterious inscriptions, and new insights into daily life.

Each find feels like solving a puzzle frozen in time. The ash preserved not only structures but also the essence of Pompeii’s culture. As archaeologists dig deeper, the city’s story keeps growing, proving that history is far from finished revealing itself.

Theories About Pompeii’s Fall

Pompeii’s sudden destruction has fueled countless theories over the years. Was the eruption preceded by warnings the residents ignored? Could the tremors leading up to the disaster have been more significant than originally thought? Some even speculate that poor decision-making contributed to the high death toll.

While Vesuvius’s eruption was undoubtedly catastrophic, debates about how prepared the city was — or wasn’t. Ultimately, Pompeii’s fall reminds us of nature’s immense power and humanity’s tendency to believe, “It won’t happen to us.”

Pliny’s Eyewitness Account

Pliny the Younger’s letters offer the only known eyewitness account of Vesuvius’s eruption. Writing to historian Tacitus, he described the ominous ash cloud, panicked evacuations, and the terrifying power of the volcano. His vivid words bring the disaster to life, capturing both the awe and horror of the event.

Pliny’s descriptions, like the infamous “pine tree” shape of the eruption, provide critical clues for historians and volcanologists. His ability to detail chaos with such clarity is impressive — though one can imagine him thinking, “This will make an excellent letter someday.”

Archaeological Techniques in Pompeii

Excavating Pompeii has transformed from the early days of treasure hunting into a science-driven endeavor. In the past, diggers prioritized finding artifacts to adorn royal collections, often causing significant damage. Today, modern archaeology emphasizes preservation and understanding, using advanced tools like 3D imaging and ground-penetrating radar to explore the city without disrupting its fragile remains.

From restoring vibrant frescoes to analyzing carbonized food, archaeologists now uncover stories rather than just treasures. Each ash-covered layer peeled back reveals a new chapter of Pompeii’s daily life, turning the site into a living classroom for understanding ancient Roman culture and ingenuity.

Pompeii’s Global Significance Today

Pompeii isn’t just an archaeological site; it’s a symbol of resilience and discovery. Millions of visitors from around the world walk its ancient streets annually, marveling at the preserved city frozen in time. It’s a place where history feels tangible, offering lessons about life, death, and human ingenuity.

Its ruins inspire art, literature, and scientific study, bridging the gap between ancient and modern worlds. Pompeii’s global significance lies not just in its tragedy, but in its ability to connect us with the past in a uniquely intimate way.

Tourism and Preservation Efforts

Tourism breathes life into Pompeii, drawing millions of visitors eager to walk its ancient streets. However, this popularity comes at a cost, with the constant foot traffic accelerating wear and tear on fragile artifacts and structures. To address this, preservation experts employ innovative strategies, balancing public access with the site’s long-term protection.

Efforts include limiting visitor numbers, creating designated paths, and utilizing advanced conservation technologies. It’s a careful dance — ensuring tourists can experience Pompeii’s wonder while preventing its priceless history from being eroded by time and attention. The goal is clear: to preserve this treasure for generations yet to come.

The Herculaneum Connection

Pompeii often overshadows Herculaneum, its smaller yet wealthier neighbor also entombed by Vesuvius’s fury. While Pompeii captures the public imagination, Herculaneum offers equally remarkable insights, with better-preserved structures and rare organic materials like wooden furniture and stored food, giving a more intimate glimpse into Roman life.

Together, these cities complement one another, painting a richer picture of life before the eruption. They reveal a spectrum of wealth, culture, and daily routines, proving that even privilege could not shield Herculaneum’s residents from the catastrophic power of Mount Vesuvius. Both stand as haunting reminders of nature’s indiscriminate force.

Comparisons to Other Buried Cities

Pompeii’s fame often draws comparisons to other buried cities like Herculaneum and Akrotiri in Santorini. Each tells a unique story, shaped by the volcanic eruptions that preserved them in time. While Pompeii reveals a bustling Roman city frozen in its final moments, Akrotiri showcases an advanced Bronze Age civilization with intricate urban planning.

These sites highlight how nature’s destructive fury can paradoxically become an archaeologist’s most valuable ally. The similarities and differences between these ancient cities provide a broader understanding of how societies lived, evolved, and adapted — or failed to adapt — to the unpredictable forces of nature.

Pompeii’s Impact on Modern Art

Pompeii has been a muse for centuries, inspiring artists, writers, and filmmakers. Its ruins sparked a wave of neoclassical art in the 18th century, with frescoes and sculptures influencing European design. Even today, Pompeii appears in literature, movies, and contemporary art.

The city’s haunting beauty and frozen-in-time tragedy captivate creatives, serving as a reminder of life’s fragility. From romantic paintings to modern TV shows, Pompeii’s story continues to shape artistic expression worldwide.

New Discoveries Changing Perspectives

Pompeii isn’t done revealing its secrets. Recent discoveries, from newly unearthed frescoes to untouched streets, have reshaped our understanding of the city. Advances in technology have allowed researchers to uncover details about diet, health, and even Pompeii’s environment.

Each new find feels like solving another piece of the ancient puzzle. As archaeologists dig deeper, they challenge old assumptions and add new chapters to Pompeii’s story, proving that even 2,000 years later, history is still alive.

Future Excavations of Pompeii

Future excavations in Pompeii promise even more fascinating revelations and insights. With much of the city still buried, archaeologists are eager to explore untapped areas using advanced tools like drones and 3D mapping.

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These excavations aim to uncover not just structures, but also the lives and stories of Pompeii’s people. The anticipation is palpable — what secrets might still lie hidden beneath the ash? Whatever they find, one thing is certain: Pompeii’s story, layered with mystery and intrigue, is far from over.

Lessons From Pompeii’s Tragedy

Pompeii’s tragic end is a sobering reminder of nature’s unpredictable power. The city’s demise highlights the importance of heeding environmental warnings, like the tremors that preceded Mount Vesuvius’s eruption. Today, it serves as a case study for disaster preparedness and the consequences of ignoring early signs.

Beyond the scientific lessons, Pompeii also teaches us to value the present. Its preserved streets and homes offer a poignant glimpse into lives lived fully — right until the end. It’s a reminder to embrace each day, even as we respect the forces beyond our control.

Pompeii: A City Remembered

Pompeii is more than a ruined city; it’s a symbol of human resilience and curiosity. From its vibrant streets to its haunting casts, the city remains a vivid testament to ancient life. Its rediscovery sparked worldwide fascination, transforming it into one of history’s greatest archaeological wonders.

Every stone and artifact tells a story, connecting us to the lives of those who walked its streets over 2,000 years ago. Pompeii isn’t just remembered — it’s celebrated as a bridge between the ancient and modern worlds, keeping history alive in the most extraordinary way.

Of all the beasts that have roamed the earth, none are perhaps more successful than the dinosaurs. These fearsome, gigantic reptiles have captured the imaginations of millions, and part of their appeal lies in the mysteries surrounding them. Despite their popularity, however, many people don’t know the history of dinosaurs, where they came from, and which among them were the kings of the land. In this post, we’re hoping to cast some light on these questions while also providing examples of the world’s largest creatures!

Where Did Dinosaurs Come From?

Dinosaurs are the world’s most successful group of animals. They ruled the earth for roughly 250 million years, with their reign finally ending some 66 million years ago. That length of time is nearly impossible for us to grasp; suffice it to say, dinosaurs were around for a very, very long time.

Where they come from, however, is something of a mystery. While it is possible to track the evolution of certain species of dinosaurs, there is no definitive answer as to which dinosaur was the first to ever roam the earth.

Where Did the Dinosaurs Live?

Dinosaurs lived in various parts of the world, and specimens have been discovered in the USA, Europe, Asia, Australia, South Africa, and many other countries. However, during the Triassic Period — the earliest chapter of dinosaur history — dinosaurs roamed the supercontinent Pangaea, which was once the largest landmass on Earth.

Over the years, however, as the Triassic Period progressed into the Jurassic Period — and then into the Cretaceous Period — this landmass began to sunder and split. Eventually, by the time the dinosaurs went extinct, these separate landmasses became the continents we know today, albeit with a few differences.

When Did the Dinosaurs Live?

Despite what you may believe, not all dinosaurs existed at the same time as others. Remember, these beasts roamed the earth for 250 million years! It’s impossible for them to have all lived at the same time and place. There are three periods in which the dinosaurs ruled the earth: the Triassic Period, the Jurassic Period, and the Cretaceous Period.

Tyrannosaurus Rex lived during the Cretaceous Period; Stegosaurus lived during the Jurassic Period. These two popular yet distinct species of dinosaur were separated by about 66 million years!

Theropods

Dinosaurs can be categorized into three distinct groups: theropods, sauropods, and ornithopods. Theropods were bipedal predators and meat-eaters, physically characterized by large heads, small forearms, and — of course — a fearsome appearance.

These are most likely the dinosaurs that you are most familiar with; popular examples include both Tyrannosaurus Rex and the Velociraptor.

Sauropods

Sauropods were quadrupedal, walking on four legs, and easily identified by their long necks, pot-bellies, and large limbs. Many sauropods were herbivores, making them a much more peaceful bunch than the theropods.

In fact, many sauropods often fell prey to theropods despite typically being much larger. Their size and long necks, however, provided advantages for reaching vegetation high in trees, giving them access to food sources unavailable to other herbivores.

Ornithopods

Finally, ornithopods include beaked plant-eaters and duck-billed dinosaurs. Some were bipedal; others were quadrupedal. There are many physical similarities between ancient ornithopods and many modern-day species of birds.

Some of these creatures also featured horns and spikes. Their advanced chewing mechanisms and specialized teeth made them highly efficient at processing tough plant material, a trait that helped them thrive in diverse environments.

Triassic Era

The first period in which the reptiles we know today as dinosaurs first evolved is known as the Triassic Period. During this period, the earth as we know it — continents separated by vast oceans — was completely different. There was only one land mass, a supercontinent known as Pangaea.

As such, the differences between types of flora and fauna were minuscule, as most of the continent was covered in large deserts. The climate was hot and dry, and so reptiles came to be the dominant species, evolving into large, monstrous beasts we know as dinosaurs.

Alwalkeria

Despite our general understanding of dinosaurs as being huge, terrifying creatures to behold — thanks, Jurassic Park — it may surprise you to learn that some of these ancient reptiles were no larger than the average domestic dog. Take Alwalkeria, for example, a small dinosaur from the Triassic Period.

Alwalkeria is estimated to have been no longer than 50 centimeters. Most of our understanding of Alwalkeria comes from a single incomplete skeleton, but what we do know is that it was a bipedal omnivore, and a very small one at that!

Camposaurus

Most of the information surrounding the Triassic Period and its inhabitants is incomplete. To this day, there are many ancient mysteries that have yet to be solved. This is particularly true for Camposaurus, a small theropod whose exact size we have yet to determine.

What we do know is that its skeleton (parts of it, anyway) was found in modern-day Arizona, USA, and that it was a small carnivore. It lived during the Norian Age of the late Triassic Period, but so far, only its leg bones have been recovered.

Coelophysis

Though many dinosaurs and their complete biological makeup remain a mystery to us, sometimes archaeologists have a streak of good luck and are blessed with huge, near-complete skeletons. Take Coelophysis, for example, a medium-sized theropod from the late Triassic Period.

Coelophysis had long, curved claws and sharp teeth, which must have made it a terrifying beast to behold! Many of its skeletons were found close together, suggesting it may have been a pack animal, and one specimen was found to have the remains of a crocodile in its rib cage.

Daemonosaurus

Not all dinosaurs were built equally, and many of them are what we’d call “less than terrifying.” While we still don’t relish the chance of meeting one of these ancient reptiles in person, there are some that seem almost loveable and friendly, like Daemonsaurus, a theropod from the Triassic Period.

This unassuming monster was surprisingly large, capable of growing to nearly two meters in length. It had a short snout with sharp, protruding teeth and large eyes that made it seem more cute than some other dinosaurs on this list. Make no mistake, though: it’s still a meat-eater.

Eoraptor

Though it can be difficult to grasp, it’s important to remember that the period (or periods) in which the dinosaurs ruled the earth were long, longer than any other era of human history. As such, many dinosaurs did not exist at the same time as others, like Eoraptor, a small theropod from the Triassic Period.

Eoraptor was one of the first dinosaurs to evolve. Its small size was offset by its sharp teeth and claws, and it looked a lot like a miniature version of the theropods that would go on to dominate the later periods of dinosaur history.

Gojirasaurus

Many of the beasts of the past have a way of invading our present with franchises like Jurassic Park and Godzilla. It’s very rare, however, for one of these fictional monsters to influence the past. And yet, that’s exactly the case for Gojirasaurus.

Gojirasaurus gets its name from one of the world’s most famous monsters, the one and only Godzilla. Despite this, however, it doesn’t share much in common with the notorious kaiju, being much leaner than its namesake. It was huge, though, and capable of growing up to 5 and a half meters in length.

Liliensternus

So far, many of the dinosaurs that have appeared on this list have been rather small compared to the gigantic creatures we imagine. Aren’t dinosaurs supposed to be huge? In fact, many of them were, like Liliensternus, a terrifying theropod from the Triassic Period.

Like Gojirasaurus, Liliensternus could easily reach over 5 meters in length. It had a long neck and an even longer tail, and typically preyed on smaller herbivores. Interestingly, it’s speculated that Liliensternus may have had a crest-like growth on its head, making its monstrous aspect even more terrifying.

Melanorosaurus

Liliensternus and Gojirasaurus have so far dominated this list in terms of size. These are exactly the kind of creatures that make films like Jurassic Park so terrifying at times, and their diet of meat, meat, and more meat means we’re glad they no longer exist today.

Fortunately, not all huge dinosaurs were meat-eaters. Melanorosaurus was one of the biggest reptiles of its time and grew to be 8 meters in length. It was an early sauropod, a type of dinosaur classified by its small head, huge limbs, and long neck.

Pantydraco

Despite extensive research and archaeological endeavors, we still know almost nothing about many dinosaurs. Thus, it seems fitting that one of these mysterious creatures should break the common dinosaur naming convention with a name like Pantydraco.

Pantydraco draws its unusual name from two Welsh words: pant-y-ffynnon, meaning well/spring, and draco, meaning dragon. Like Melanorosaurus, it was an early sauropod and featured a long neck and small head.

Plateosaurus

Conversely to dinosaurs like Pantydraco, there are other species that we know a great deal about. Some dinosaur skeletons are fairly common, as is the case with Plateosaurus, which was also one of the first dinosaurs to be named.

Like the previous two entries, Plateosaurus was an early sauropod that grew to be 5 to 10 meters in length. Many specimens were found close together in Europe and Greenland, suggesting that it may have been a herd animal.

Jurassic Era

Towards the end of the Triassic Period, Pangaea split in two, giving way to what we now know as the Atlantic Ocean. At the end of this period, a huge extinction event took place, causing many large land animals to be wiped out — but the dinosaurs survived. Because there were now two separate land masses, distinctions between the dinosaurs became clearer.

Plants and ferns also grew more numerous, allowing herbivorous dinosaurs — the sauropods — to evolve much quicker than before. Finally, temperatures also fell during this period, though it was still much hotter than it is today. The large seas that developed between different areas also increased rainfall.

Allosaurus

The Jurassic Period was a time when many of the world’s biggest predators evolved and hunted. Many of us would wish to avoid these creatures if they still existed today, which is why dinosaur fiction is so terrifying. This sentiment is epitomized by Allosaurus, a theropod from the Jurassic Period.

This towering monstrosity grew to be anywhere between 5 and 12 meters in length. It was an apex predator that likely feasted on many herbivores and sauropods, as well as stegosaurs such as Stegosaurus.

Archaeopteryx

The idea that small, friendly birds like chickens evolved from dinosaurs is as terrifying as it is humorously absurd. It’s funny to think that these near-flightless creatures share a common strand of genetic memory with something as terrifying as a Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The genesis of this theory was Archaeopteryx, a terrifying winged monster from the Jurassic Period. This creature had the characteristics of both dinosaurs (teeth, claws, and a tail) and birds (wishbone and feathers). Its discovery enabled scientists like Charles Darwin to prove the theory of evolution.

Brontosaurus

Of course, despite the dominance of apex predators in the Jurassic Period’s ecosystem, many herbivores, and sauropods thrived. This was due to the abundance of flora that arose in the wake of Pangaea’s sundering, enabling these creatures to grow and evolve in conditions more suited to their habits.

Brontosaurus was one such sauropod. Its name means “thunder lizard”, which is about as cool as they come. It could grow to a whopping 22 meters in length, and it is speculated that its tail could function as a whip, possibly as a deterrent to predators.

Camptosaurus

While it’s easy to generalize dinosaurs as overgrown reptilian killing machines, there are many differences between the distinct species of dinosaurs. Some are minute, while others are vast, such as the difference between theropods and sauropods.

On the other hand, Camptosaurus had features of both groups, being bipedal like many theropods but with a small head like many sauropods. Despite this, it is not categorized as either, instead being an ornithopod, a type of dinosaur distinguished by a complex chewing mechanism that aided in eating plants.

Compsognathus

It’s difficult to imagine dinosaurs as anything other than the huge monsters of legend. Still, many of the species during this period of ancient history were tiny, with some no bigger than your average labrador. Compsognathus was — for a time — thought to be the world’s smallest dinosaur.

It could grow to be no more than 2 meters in length. Despite this, it was a fearsome predator, and many Compsognathus specimens have been found with other remains contained within their rib cage.

Diplodocus

There are many dinosaurs that we know next to nothing about. This is typically due to the scarcity of fossils and complete specimens. Conversely, there are also dinosaurs that we know almost everything about, as in the case of Diplodocus. Interestingly, Diplodocus specimens were very common in the Morrison Formation in the USA.

These huge creatures could grow to be 27 meters in length, making them one of the largest specimens on this list. They are also thought to have stood on their hind legs like bipedal creatures, using their tails as a prop to reach other bits of vegetation that they may not have been able to before.

Huayangosaurus

Dinosaur specimens can be found all over the world. While many of these fossils are common throughout the USA and Europe, others can only be found abroad, such as the Huayangosaurus, which was found in what is now modern-day China.

This dinosaur is one of the earliest known stegosauruses, which are distinguished by their bird-hipped frames, herbivorous nature, and quadrupedal (walking on four legs) nature. This particular genus had two rows of sharp spikes on its back and a spiked tail, making for a rather scary silhouette.

Megalosaurus

Despite dinosaurs being such a storied species, the science and studies surrounding them are fairly modern by historical standards. Much of our understanding of these creatures dates from the 1800s and onwards, which, considering that they are millions of years old, is a very short period of time.

Megalosaurus was one of the very first dinosaurs to be named during the earliest studies of these creatures. It was a huge theropod that feasted on sauropods and stegosaurians and could grow up to 9 meters in length.

Stegosaurus

Hopefully, by now, it should be clear that the variety of dinosaurs is huge. You’ve probably come across many names on this list that you may not have immediately recognized. However, we feel pretty confident that most people reading this list will have heard of Stegosaurus.

One of the most famous dinosaurs of the Jurassic Period is the stegosaurus. It could grow to be 9 meters in length and is most easily distinguished by the two rows of plates on its back. These plates are thought to have been a deterrent against predators or a means of regulating the creature’s body heat.

Vulcanodon

In terms of size, the general trend among dinosaurs seems to be that sauropods are bigger than other types. Of course, not all sauropods are built the same, and some have been found to have been no larger than the ferocious theropods that feast on them.

Vulcanodons could only grow up to 5 meters in length, which is quite small by sauropod standards. Its name means “Vulcan tooth,” and it was so named because it was found in volcanic rock with nine sharp teeth. However, it was later discovered that the teeth actually belonged to another creature.

Cretaceous Era

The last period during which the dinosaurs ruled the earth is known as the Cretaceous Period. During this time, the land separated further, developing into early versions of the continents we know today, albeit in different positions. This also meant that both flora and fauna were more diverse than ever.

Flowering plants were also much more common during this period, which also saw the first snakes and bees evolve! Other land mammals developed, too, including tree-climbers, ground-dwellers, and even some who hunted smaller dinosaurs.

Albertosaurus

Despite its quaint name, Albertosaurus was far from gentle. A member of the Tyrannosauridae family — like the iconic T. rex — it was a large theropod closely resembling the famous predators depicted in popular media. Its name is derived from the place in which its first specimens were found, Alberta, Canada.

It was first discovered on an expedition by Canadian geologist Joseph Burr Tyrell way back in 1884 — since then, several other specimens belonging to the same family have been found.

Ankylosaurus

When we think of dinosaurs, we tend to think of the large, predatory kind first. These theropods were fearsome in nature and terrifying to behold, a far cry from the more peaceful-looking herbivores like sauropods. Of course, not all herbivores made for easy meals.

Enter Ankylosaurus, a great tank of a beast presumed to be capable of fighting off large predators. It is distinguished by the armored plates along its hide, as well as its flail-like tail with a heavy club on its end.

Carnotaurus

Do you know what’s more terrifying than a huge, monstrous carnivore? A huge, monstrous carnivore that can run fast. And do you know what’s more terrifying than that? A huge, monstrous carnivore that can run fast and has horns! The Carnotaurus was a fearsome meat-eater similar to T. Rex in its appearance.

It had large hind legs and itty-bitty forearms; scientists believe these may have, in fact, been vestigial. They’re also the only known carnivorous dinosaurs with horns!

Gallimimus

With many dinosaurs, it’s easy to draw a direct line between ancient species and modern-day birds. In fact, there’s a whole group of dinosaurs known as Ornithomimosauria, otherwise called “ostrich dinosaurs”. Three guesses as to why that is.

Gallimimus is the largest known “ostrich dinosaur.” It featured a long neck and even longer legs, as well as a toothless beak. Like ostriches, these dinosaurs were blindingly fast and may have even been the world’s fastest dinosaur.

Gorgosaurus

While it should be clear by now that some differences between dinosaurs are as night and day, most of them share one thing in common: they have cool names. Gorgosaurus ranks right up there with Gojirasaurus and Vulcandon. Surprisingly though, for a while, it was thought to be the very same creature as Albertosaurus, whose name is decidedly less metal.

Nevertheless, Gorgosaurus was a different creature. It was part of the tyrannosauridae family, but typically wasn’t as big as some of its cousins. Of course, it was still just as fearsome as any of those other beasts.

Iguanodon

From one of the coolest named dinosaurs to one of the least inspired, we have the Iguanodon. Perhaps we should give it some slack for being the second-ever named dinosaur; unfortunately, its name remains as silly now as it was then. Nevertheless, the Iguanodon was a huge dinosaur that shared little physical resemblance to the modern-day iguana.

It was a herbivore with forefeet that almost resembled hands — these featured a thumb spike, three hoof-like fingers, and a long fifth finger that could not only be flexed but also gripped.

Microraptor

Dinosaurs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. We’ve had some big dinosaurs on this list as well as a few smaller ones, but none were as tiny as the aptly-named Microraptor. These small creatures inhabited — in abundance — what is known today as Asia.

Interestingly, Microraptors were gifted with two sets of wings rather than just one. This enabled them to glide to the airwaves, and recent studies suggest that they may have even been capable of bird-like flapping.

Oviraptor

With a basic understanding of language as well as the skill to interpret (or perhaps intuit), you can tell a lot about a dinosaur by its name alone. The Oviraptor, for example, was so named because it was discovered near a bunch of eggs; being a predator, it was thought that the creature was in the process of stealing and eating the eggs, hence its name, which means “egg thief”.

Sometimes, though, these names are misleading. While Oviraptor belonged to the broad theropod category (i.e., predators and meat-eaters), it was later discovered that the eggs actually belonged to the same family. It wasn’t stealing them — it was protecting them!

Spinosaurus

Care to guess how Spinosaurus got its name? True to form, it’s named for the striking rows of large spines on its back, thought to either regulate body heat or display its fearsome presence.

And fearsome it was! Spinosaurus could grow up to 17 meters in length, making it one of the largest land predators. Its long snout enabled it to catch aquatic prey easily — you can bet that it never went hungry!

Tyrannosaurus Rex

You knew this one was coming. How could we curate a list of dinosaurs without mentioning the king of dinosaurs himself? Indeed, Tyrannosaurus Rex was one of the largest land-based predators in the world, rivaled only by Spinosaurus, and is also one of the few dinosaurs that just about anyone would be able to recognize.

Tyrannosaurus Rex had a huge head, small forearms, and long, sharp teeth. These teeth could grow up to 30 centimeters in length — that’s about the size of your forearm! On top of that, its jaws were powerful, and Tyrannosaurus Rex is thought to have had the strongest bite in history.

The End of the Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs ruled the Earth for 250 million years, but even their reign had to end. Their extinction is often attributed to a massive asteroid impact 66 million years ago, triggering a catastrophic explosion that reshaped the planet. However, while this is the most widely accepted theory, it’s not the only explanation. Environmental factors like rapid climate change may have also played a role, with the sudden shifts proving too extreme for dinosaurs to adapt and survive in time.

In the aftermath of this catastrophe, other creatures — particularly mammals — began to evolve rapidly alongside the only surviving dinosaurs: birds. Once fearsome rulers of the Earth, these ancient giants have transformed into the harmless avians we see today. However, if Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds is any indication, a trace of their ancient killer instinct may still linger.

Is This The Cockpit?

This just does not seem like a practical place for the pilot to sit. Of all people, she should know the dangers of getting to close too the engine, whether it’s on or off. However, there is a story behind this one as the pilot is Swedish Maria Pettersson, who often combines her love of flying and yoga. The pilot often posts pictures of herself doing yoga around the aircraft, which has garnered plenty of attention on Instagram.

Delayed Maturity

Most people go for the generic welcome home signs when greeting a friend or family member back from a trip, but others get creative. Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there when there is no food in the house and its just incredibly frustrating that your mom isn’t there to restock the fridge. This son decided to take this concept and run with it by showing up at the airport in a penguin onesie along with a sign signaling which food was finished in the house.

Shining Armor

While this looks like a complete joke, it was not. How many times have you been in an airport where they have these gimmick stands for shoe shining and walk past it thinking who has the time to sit there and do that, or better yet, who would pay for that? Well, it turns out that the figures in need of a shoe polish were in town for Comic-Con and their outfits needed to be glistening to look their best.

Passenger Falcons

Messenger pigeons were thought to be a thing of the past, but it seems that these sneaky falcons thought up a genius way to make their journey easier and less strenuous by traveling on commercial airline. While that would be a hilarious story, what was actually happening was a Saudi Prince paying for his 80 falcons to travel between the United Arab Emirates. For an average person this would never be permitted, but the Prince used his status to get what he wanted.

Time Limits

This sign is situated at the city of Aalborg in Denmark’s airport. At many airports, the stewards are incredibly aggressive when it comes to cars blocking up the space in the roadside check-in line as they say goodbye to their loved ones. However, Denmark thought of a way round this and designated a “Kiss and Goodbye” area to cherish those last few moments with your loved one before their travels. Nonetheless, they did decided to cut off the smooch session at 3 minutes.

Check Your Lightsabers At The Counter

When a new Star Wars movie comes out, the die-hard fans need to prep and plan accordingly for what might be the most monumental moment of their year. These fans decided to coordinate before the release of The Last Jedi to ensure they experienced it altogether. When the Stormtrooper’s friend, Darth Vader arrived at Denver airport, they greeted him by playing the “Imperial March” out loud and celebrated his arrival at the gate while onlookers couldn’t help but laugh.

Too Specific

This family wanted to think of a hilarious way to welcome the matriarch home in the most embarrassing way possible. As they waited for their mother and wife, they held up signs welcoming her back from prison! As the mother walked through the gate to see her family holding the mortifying signs, she immediately turned the other way and pretended she didn’t know them. The signs got quite a few questionable looks from other passengers but the family will never forget the priceless look on their mom’s face.

Organized Security

Airports are said to have the tightest security of any official establishment. History shows that airports and planes are targets for terrorism and passengers don’t want to find any reason to question the safety of air travel. Therefore, when someone spotted that a security officer was playing a game of solitaire on the computer instead of checking passports and profiles, it caused quite the uproar. This is one time that you really shouldn’t be procrastinating at work!

Traveling Light

You find all sorts of people in the airport from all walks of life, and some of them can appear as something out of the ordinary. Interestingly, these two people were at Seattle airport, just weeks within each other, along with their huge, antique type writers. Not only are they completely impractical to travel with, they probably raised some eyebrows at security. Companies like Apple have come out with lightweight, small, state-of-the-art technology, so can someone please buy these people an iPad?!

Place All Cuddly Objects In A Bin

What is worse than traveling with a child? Traveling with a small baby. They are unpredictable and can cry at any time, and must be lugged around in a stroller. When this mother was asked to take her shoes off by TSA, she had to put her baby down somewhere while she did so. Let’s just hope the baby was not put through the X-ray machine, as that wouldn’t be a good situation for anyone.

Flying To See Jenny

At the Nashville International Airport, travelers were in for a treat when they spotted Forrest Gump at the airport. Even the Nike sneakers and haircut resembled the famous film character. While there is no information where he was going or what he was doing, we’d like to think he was traveling to see his own Jenny. In any case, if the Forrest lookalike was about to miss his flight, other passengers could just start shouting “run, Forrest! Run!”

Choking Up

We have seen some embarrassing welcome home signs, but this has to be one of the most mortifying. Mokie was in for a shocking surprise when he walked out of the gate. His friends found the most embarrassing photo, choking on some food and decided to blow it up huge and hold it for the whole airport to see. We hope he saw the funny side of it and wasn’t chewing anything as he walked off the flight in the case this face would happen again.

Proposed Itinerary

You can’t help but smile when you see a couple getting engaged in public. Anyone who has experienced that moment will remember the shock and overall excitement that comes with being asked to spend you life with the one. This man chose to propose when his partner returned from a trip, straight as she walked out of the gate. Everyone in the background couldn’t contain their excitement for the adorable couple, and most importantly, she said yes!

Sparking An Idea

Having no phone battery at the airport can honestly be a complete travesty. Not being able to pass the long waiting hours by texting your friends and scrolling through social media is one of the worst things. At many airports they have introduced charging stations that charge you, but is this really fair? One traveler was outraged at the concept of being charged so thought outside the box and plugged his phone into the outlet the machine was using!

Heel!

Traveling can be stressful enough as it is, so imagine doing it with young children. Between making sure all of your children are accounted for and keeping them calm is a huge challenge in itself. That scene from Home Alone 2 when Kevin gets on the plane to New York City alone is a prime example of why parents should watch their children like hawks. This mother decided to stop her kids from running off by putting them on leashes, but it didn’t look too useful in practice.

Checked In

Traveling can be increasingly tiresome, there is just so much you can do in an airport before you start going stir crazy. Unless you’re a child and it’s acceptable to play hide and go seek, the reality is that you will probably be sitting on your phone or laptop for the next few hours before boarding your flight. However, this girl decided to bring back the planking craze of 2010 and take a ride along the luggage conveyer belt.

What A Welcome

Of course some welcome home signs can be incredibly awkward, while others are sweet and thoughtful. This husband wanted to welcome home his wife in the best way possible, so not only was he sweet, he paid her a huge compliment that probably resulted in quite a few blushes. Picking her up dressed as a limo driver and writing “Smokin Hot Italian Chick,” earned him quite a few looks, but it was certainly worth it. He probably got big brownie points.

Terminally Grounded

There are some natural disasters that no one can prevent from happening and the effect is huge for natives of that place. These people were trying to get back to their home in Asia, but bad flying conditions were preventing them from getting home, so they were stranded at the airport for days with no flights on the horizon. However, they decided to be incredibly resourceful and use cardboard boxes as makeshift beds. Despite looking like homeless people, it worked!

Doodie Free

The vast majority of airports are not dog-friendly, but the small percentage of them that do, make plenty of allowances for man’s best friends. No matter how well-trained your dog is, they have needs just like the rest of us. This San Diego airport decided to assign a special “pet relief” area, so your pet can go about its business in peace and without nasty looks from appalled passengers. Think about it, it’s also a great place to hang around with cute puppies while waiting around.

Well, That’s Reassuring

Taking off from Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow is not the most calming experience, as you are greeted with the remains of Dagestan Airlines Flight 37. The plane had an engine failure and went down shortly after taking off, but the emergency landing was botched and the plane broke into three pieces. There were two deaths as a result of the crash and they decided to leave the remains of the plane to be used in the pilots trial.

It’s Personal

We’ve all had moment when we have either forgotten what our luggage looks like when coming around the luggage conveyer, or for those more foolish, forgotten our bags altogether. This man was a culprit of both of those things and to ensure that he did not have yet another incident with his luggage, his friends gifted him with a bag with his face printed on it. Let’s hope he never forgot about it again, as that is just too much.

Nunderneath The Robes

Sometimes you just have to wonder if TSA are going overboard with their jobs. Of course, it is important to check passengers thoroughly for any weapons or chemicals they may be carrying, but some people are much less suspicious than others. Why this nun was asked for extra checks we don’t know, she probably just wants to go on her pilgrimage in peace without any hassle. We hope this was the last of the troubles this nun was put through on her travels.

Air-obics

For the most part, millennials are constantly glued to their phones or technology while on-the-go or stationary, so when young people are engaging in the moment and making use out of their free time, it is refreshing to see. These guys decided to take activities in the airport to new levels when they decided to perform some circus activities to the delight of other passengers. Although no precautions were taken, both guys got away with no bruises or scratches.

Make Yourself At Home

Seeing people laying around on the floor in an airport might be slightly bizarre to look at, but it is actually very common. Between flight cancellations and delays, seats in the airport can be hard to come by, so in many cases, you need to improvise. This one looks particularly awkward because the sleeping man is laying in the middle of check-in while others are standing normally around him. Maybe try and find a quiet corner next time?

Many Hands Make Flight Work

Without a back story, this photo is just cruel, discriminative slave-labor, but then when you find out what it is for, you can breathe a sigh of relief and laugh. This photo was taken during the filming of Man Vs. Beast, to figure out if an elephant or 44 little people could pull a airplane quicker. We’re sad that the elephant had no choice but to do it, but of course he was stronger than the humans.

The Grinch Of The Airport

There are plenty of things which are totally understandable to ban from taking on the aircraft for your safety and the safety of everyone else. However, many people began scratching their heads when TSA were the Grinch over the holiday season and banned people from taking snow globes on the plane. The reason was that the liquid might be switched with an explosive chemical. In addition Bangkok banned the Thai and Malaysian native fruit Durians for their bad odor.

Not Taking Any Chances

Planes can be hotbeds for the distribution of germs and illnesses and for germ-o-phobes, it can be too much to handle. This man was clearly one of those people and in addition, he used every tool possible to block out smells, noise and light. It might look a bit bizarre and we feel for the other passengers sitting next to him as that is an awkward moment when they need to get past him to go to the bathroom.

In Plane View

“Do it for the Insta” is a saying which has people doing crazy things to get more followers and more attention on their social media. This Brazilian pilot, Daniel Centeno has garnered over 70,000 Instagram followers due to his plane selfies that only the most fearless of people would take. This selfie was taken above the famous Palm in Dubai but many questioned the validity of them. It turned out that they were photoshopped and everyone died a little inside.

I Saw The Sign… And It Was Illegible

Nothing is cuter than having your little girl come and welcome you home from the airport. The sheer excitement toddlers get when they are reunited with a parent is heartwarming for anyone to see. When this six-year-old wanted to greet her grandparents at the airport, she insisted on making a sign for them. Despite all of her hard work, the sign was completely illegible, but she looked proud nonetheless. Hey, it’s the thought that counts.

Drawing The Line

When you leave important documents in the way of your young children, it should be expected they are going to do something to it. This man probably should have hidden away his passport from his kids, who decided to practice their best artwork on it. The biggest problem of all was the fact that the family were on vacation and border control wouldn’t accept the passport. The man had to go back to the embassy and this kid probably got one big scolding.

One More

Some jobs at the airport can be rather mundane, but there is much room for making them creative and exciting. This baggage handler decided to do exactly that and channel his inner Tetris maestro to create the most incredibly luggage tower in airport history. While we wish that was the honest truth, the reality is that these are art sculptures placed in an airport and molded together carefully. It’s still pretty cool and leaves you thinking how it was made.

Good To Keep In Mind

There are some signs that you see in airports around the world, but this one is very rare. The sign can be found at St. Maarten’s Princess Juliana Airport in New Zealand, and is genuine in warning travelers to stay away from the runway, which is situated much too close to the parking lot. Not only is this a huge safety hazard, but this also gives New Zealand a bad reputation for their airport safety.

K-911

You may not have thought twice about it, but many airports are at risk of wild animals running across the runway which would cause a huge safety incident. Plenty of airports have overcome this issue by creating traps to shoo the animals away from the danger that is all around them, but Cherry Capital Airport in Michigan went for a different method. They decided to hire a Border Collie named Piper who runs around the airport perimeter, chasing animals away and keeping all passengers and airlines safe.

Runway Traffic

Looking at this picture would have anyone having a panic attack, whether you are afraid of flying or not. This is breaching airline safety on so many levels and an astronomical collision is pretty sure to happen. Luckily, this is just a photoshopped image by photographer Mike Kelley. He named it “Wake Turbulence,” and it depicts all the flights departing from LAX, Los Angeles’ international airport. It was made up of 400 individual images and then doctored together.

One-Way To Antarctica

While this looks like something out of a movie, it is completely real. Sadly, these Humboldt penguins were threatened by poachers, but through the quick and successful work of penguin conservationists, they were able to transport them back to their native habitat, an island off of Port Elizabeth, South Africa. However, transporting penguins is not as easy as you’d think and the most logical way to travel with them was by taking them on a commercial airline.

Run(a)way Bear

The majority of airports would never see such an incredible sight, but for those countries that are used to extreme temperatures and conditions, occurrences like this are more common than you would imagine. This photo was taken at an Alaskan airport and the area is home to plenty of polar bears. Although the beautiful, yet dangerous animals, spend much of their lives in cold waters, when they appear, it seems like they enjoy wandering amongst the planes.

Always Log Out

If you leave your phone in an airport, chances are it’s gone for good and there’s no turning back. However, in Newcastle International Airport, these airport workers decided to have some fun when a passenger left their phone behind by posting a funny selfie on her Facebook page. Geordie’s don’t tend to have the best reputation, but these two men were able to change many of the perceptions about the strong-accented northerners. We’re sure Jasmine wouldn’t forget this one.

We Talked About This

Selfies have become all the rage in recent years to the point that it was named Oxford Dictionary’s word of 2013. This woman decided to publicly shame her partner for his narcissistic obsession with constant selfies. He even went so far to get the best gadgets out there for good angles. However, when his girlfriend, Britney, found his selfie stick, it was truly the last straw and she just couldn’t take the embarrassment anymore. Hope you had a good flight, Simon!

Present Claim

Traveling can always be hectic and everyone knows that nerve-wracking moment when you stand by the luggage conveyor belt, hoping that your luggage isn’t lost and you can go home without a hitch. However when Spainair landed on Christmas Eve, they decided to give their passengers a wonderful parting gift and give out presents on the luggage conveyor. Everyone was surprised and got a thoughtful gift, all age-appropriate of course, it was truly a Christmas to remember.

Powerful Beach Breeze

If you haven’t heard of it already, you have now. Maho Beach on Saint Martin in the Caribbean is not only famous for it’s turquoise blue waters and beautiful beaches, but it is most commonly known for its terrifying runway. One of the beaches on the island is death-defyingly close to the runway, leading planes to drop down extremely close to beach revelers. It can be very unsafe and people often find themselves ducking down, but not before they take a selfie.

You Shall Not Pass

Hands down, one of the worst things in an airport is slow walkers. This grandma was letting no one pass her when she disembarked the plane at her own pace. Her face says it all, she did not want to be rushed, and she was so unbothered, she decided to stand in the middle and take no prisoners on her snail pace journey to passport control. Luckily, everyone saw the funny side of the situation, judging by their faces.

Sleeping Buddy

When your flight is delayed and you are absolutely exhausted from traveling, the only thing to do in an airport is look for a comfortable place to sleep. For single travelers they seem to be open to sleeping pretty much anywhere, but when you are traveling with a partner, finding somewhere can be more tricky. However, this woman took advantage of her partner and decided to sleep across his lap. All the boyfriend could do was take it, so he decided to rest on her too.

Yogie

Sitting on planes for hours on end can really take its toll on your body. Many experts recommend keeping your body moving on a plane and getting your circulation going, through small exercise. However, in many cases, all you want to do is completely stretch out, but there just isn’t the space to do that on a plane. Therefore, this yoga enthusiast took advantage of his time in the airport and decided to go through his routine in public.

Accurate Signs

Lets be honest, the lines in airport bathrooms can be painfully long and extremely inconvenient when you are absolutely desperate to go. This sign in a Chinese airport could not have been more accurate when giving directions as to where the toilets were located. It’s as if they were already letting you know that you need to prepare to cross your legs and wait in very long lines. Maybe invest in more bathrooms rather than making these huge signs?

Overweight Luggage

When you are going on an exciting vacation, there are numerous times that friends and family will ask “can I come in your suitcase?” While this is supposed to be a joke, one man took it very seriously and packed himself into his friends suitcase. Firstly, this looks like a very uncomfortable position, secondly, there is no way he would pass through security and thirdly, he is lucky he didn’t go to jail. We would advise to just buy a plane ticket instead.

Alternative Seating

We have seen people sleeping in very strange positions in the airport, but this has to be one of the most unusual. Admittedly, it can be very hard to get comfortable in a sleeping position while waiting for you flight, so this man decided to use his suitcase as a back rest and the seat for holding his lower half. It might look very uncomfortable, but he looks to be fast asleep, so maybe it isn’t as bad as it looks?!

Rolly Davidson

When your taxi cancels your trip to the airport, everything becomes a panic and you just don’t want to miss your flight. These guys decided to come up with another option when they couldn’t get an Uber, and used a motorbike to transport the traveler and his luggage to the airport. This hilarious idea seems genius in planning but is disastrous in practice. There’s no way that bag made it to the airport in one piece and they probably had to hail a rescue taxi on the highway.

Red Light, Green Light

We’re not even sure how this runway was given the green light to be built because is absolutely lethal. The runway is situated in Gibralter international airport and cars are forced to stop at the light while planes are given the go ahead for a safe landing. When the barriers are not down, cars are free to pass through and it incredibly dangerous for everyone in the case a plane needs to do an emergency landing, they have to wait for a free road.

Multipurpose Luggage

This girl represents everyone’s mood at an airport. Between the constant waiting in lines for luggage, passport checks or security, it is a long and draining process, and in many cases you are forced to stand for hours on end. In addition, delays make the airport experience ten times worse. What this girl did was pretty genius if you ask us. Not only was she able to take a nap, her father would be able to transport her to the plane while she was snoozing.

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