August 29, 2024

Roman Road Is Found Buried Under an English Village Schoolyard

History can seem distant and obscure. It can be hard to imagine scenes of everyday life long ago. But for several classes of lucky children in England, history came alive this year. The Brightwell-cum-Sotwell Primary School sits in a charming little village in Oxfordshire, England. It has playing fields standard for children's activities. But little did they know, they were playing football atop history.

Read Article


August 28, 2024

How One Japanese Company Has Survived For 1,400 Years

Japan is home to some of the longest-running businesses in the world. But none have run longer than Kongō Gumi. This construction company was founded in 578 CE. At the time, Japan's Prince Shōtoku was looking to build a Buddhist temple, but as the country was mainly Shinto, there were no carpenters with that skill set. So, he called upon miyadaiku (carpenters with training in building Buddhist temples) from a Buddhist kingdom that is now Korea.

Read Article


August 28, 2024

Circular Urban Swimming Pool in Lisbon Transforms Dilapidated Pier Into Community Oasis

While Portugal is located on the sea, that doesn't necessarily make it convenient for those living in the capital to get in a good swim. That's why two Lisbon-based architecture firms, X Atelier and Atelier Baum, have joined forces to create Loop Pool Tejo. This urban swimming pool transforms a dilapidated pier on the Tagus River into a much-needed refuge during hot summer days.

Read Article