Art History
August 23, 2020

5 Fascinating Facts About Saint Basil’s Cathedral, the Cultural Gem of Moscow

With its scarlet red walls and fantastical onion-shaped domes, it's no wonder that Saint Basil's Cathedral is considered to be one of the most unique feats of Russian architecture. Originally built between 1555 and 1561 to commemorate a military conquest, the building continues to dazzle thousands of visitors each year in Moscow's famous Red Square. The cathedral is world-renowned for its fairytale appearance, but how much do you know about its history?

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History
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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History
August 21, 2020

Sommelier History: How Poison-Detecting Servants Became Respected Wine Connoisseurs

The 2012 documentary Somm exposed many Americans to the fascinating hidden world of sommeliers. Somm followed four men studying for the exam that confers the highest qualification in the field: Master Sommelier. But to many people, sommeliers may still be something of an enigma. How can one make a career out of pouring and tasting wine? The answers might surprise you. What Is a Sommelier? Simply put, a sommelier is a wine expert.

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Art
August 21, 2020

Artist Turns Face Masks and COVID-Related Objects Into Miniature Outdoor Adventures

For almost a decade, Japanese artist Tanaka Tatsuya has spent every single day crafting miniature scenes made of everyday objects and tiny figurines. His ongoing Miniature Calendar series sees teeny subjects posed in miniature worlds where broccoli is a tree, a thumbtack is a table, and rice balls are mountains. However, ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, Tatsuya has opted for incorporating objects that reflect the “new normal.

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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.