History

August 25, 2020

10 Fascinating Facts About Cleopatra, the Powerful Queen of the Nile

Cleopatra VII died more than 2,000 years ago, but she remains one of history’s most intriguing women. Famous for her beauty and intellect, the Egyptian queen had a short but scandalous life that has inspired many works of art, literature, and films. Cleopatra is often portrayed as a femme fatale due to her romantic relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. However, she wasn’t just a seductress.

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August 22, 2020

Explore the Fascinating History of Petra, a Once-Lost City That’s Now a Wonder of the World

Also known as the Rose City, the prehistoric city of Petra is an incredible spectacle that one must see to believe. The once-thriving trade center was settled in the 4th century BCE. Its architecture, which is carved into the red sandstone cliffs, has helped make it one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Located in the desert canyons of southwestern Jordan, Petra was the capital of the ancient Nabataean civilization.

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August 9, 2020

19th-Century Japanese Fireman Coats Feature Stunning Scenes on the Inside

During Japan's Edo Period (1603-1868) firefighters were responsible for stopping blazes before the flames ran rampant through a city's wooden buildings. Many stunning examples of firemen's coats (called hikeshi banten) have survived from the nineteenth century. On the outside, these long coats function similar to modern firefighter uniforms by identifying the wearer with their fire brigade. However, the insides of the coat were decorated in elaborate scenes of strength and heroism drawn from Japanese legends.

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