History

November 6, 2023

42 New Sites Added to the UNESCO World Heritage List

This year, UNESCO has added 42 new sites to the UNESCO World Heritage list, bringing the total up to 1,199 landmarks across 168 countries. Selected for their historical or cultural significance, these sites will now benefit from the highest level of cultural protection, as well as access to financial assistance from UNESCO. 2023's selections include 33 cultural sites and nine natural sites. Thanks to five new inscribed sites, Africa has now passed a milestone.

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October 8, 2023

The Oldest Restaurant in the World Has Been in Operation for 300 Years

Many of the dishes we enjoy today are the result of age-old recipes being passed down from generation to generation. But there’s one place in Spain where you can sit and enjoy traditional plates in the same locale that has been serving patrons for nearly 300 years. Sobrino de Botín, in Madrid, is considered the oldest restaurant in the world by the Guinness World Records.

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September 8, 2023

Salvaged ‘Survivors’ Staircase’ Is a Symbol of Salvation for Those Who Fled 9/11 Attacks

A set of stairs known as the Survivors’ Staircase are part of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York City. The granite and concrete staircase didn’t originate in the museum, though. Originally an outdoor set of stairs, they were vital to the evacuation of people fleeing from the attacks on the World Trade Center towers in 2001. The Survivors’ Staircase was connected to the northern edge of World Trade Center’s Austin J.

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August 31, 2023

Pompeii’s Ancient Roads Had Raised Crosswalks for People to Safely Avoid the Muddy Streets

Prior to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, and consequently being buried under volcanic ash, the ancient Roman city of Pompeii was a thriving place. The vibrant settlement played a critical role in trade; thus, its 15,000 inhabitants lived in impressively modern conditions for the era. When tourists visit the site today, they are able to see the preserved ruins of a well-planned city that accounted for its citizens' needs.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.