Museums
July 1, 2025

How the Summer Solstice and a Ruined Artwork Fit Together at the Getty

Each summer, during the solstice, something magical happens at the Getty Research Institute (GRI) in Los Angeles. A skylight known as the “oculus,” situated precisely at the center of the GRI, catches the sunlight at midday, filtering it down toward an opaque glass circle below. It’s a moment of intense peace and reflection, during which staff members often gather to witness the sun’s rays gently spreading across the tiled floor.

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Design
June 30, 2025

Greece’s Euro Uses the Same Design Found on Ancient Coins 2,500 Years Ago

Since euro coins first went into circulation in 2002, people have marveled at their designs. While one side of the coin is the same in every member state, the national side is where the different European countries showcase their unique cultures. From famous historical figures to beloved monuments, the coins demonstrate the diversity of the European Union.

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History
June 30, 2025

How the Coloring Book Boomeranged From Adults to Children and Back Again

In recent years, adults have gravitated toward some more youthful means of relieving stress: fidget cubes, slime, life simulator and sandbox games like Animal Crossing or Stardew Valley, and, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, coloring books. Though typically leaning into abstract themes like math, these adult coloring books are still nostalgic reminders of our childhoods—and when we vied for the crayon box with more confidence.

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Archeology
June 28, 2025

Research Reveals That Ancient Romans Liked to Eat Fast Food Just Like We Do

We're not the only society that enjoys fast food.  According to a recent study in the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, ancient Romans surprisingly consumed a form of fast food, though nothing like today’s franchised favorites such as hamburgers or fried chicken. The discovery was born from research conducted in the ancient Roman city of Pollentia, located on the island of Mallorca in present-day Spain.

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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.