Who was this Emperor called Wen of Han, you ask, and why was he important? Well, he’s a well-known figure in Chinese history. He reigned from 180 BC to 157 BC, and it is said that during his reign, China enjoyed both peace and prosperity. Now, no one really knew where he was buried.
But, researchers learned that a tomb they discovered back in 2006 belongs to no other than Emperor Wen himself. His tomb contained over 1000 small statues as well as bronze, iron, and pottery relics. This finding sealed the deal, and now researchers know where all Western Han emperors were buried.
This Mysterious Tibetan Skull
Millions of people are fascinated with the idea of looking for bargains at markets and antique shops. The allure of finding a truly unique historical specimen and selling it for a massive profit is a huge trend that developed in recent decades. One such story of success happened in Vienna back in 2011, when a 300-year-old skull was found in a small antique shop.
According to the Austrian store owner, this skull belonged to a man who provided medical assistance to Tibetan monks. The man's teeth and skull were perfectly preserved, and his head was carved with various depictions of the macabre. The true origins of the skull remain a mystery, but it is still considered a precious and rare piece of history.
These Giant Japanese Crabs
Few newly discovered animals look as terrifying as this one. The Japanese spider crab can reach up to eighteen feet in length and weigh more than forty pounds. They quickly became a delicacy after being discovered by the nation that brought us sushi and anime.
The Japanese spider crabs have the longest leg span of any arthropod currently discovered on Earth. These creatures are far from extinct and tend to spend most of their time in underwater holes. Although it’s hard to have sympathy for something that looks like a horror movie monster, we’d like to note that their population is dwindling due to over-fishing.
How the Curia Pompeia Was Established
Curia Pompeia? What's that? Isn't that the name of some Paco Rabanne fragrance? Well, no. It used to be the place where Roman senators would meet during the times of the Roman Republic. While we don't know exactly when it was built, researchers believe that during the time of the Roman general Pompey the Great.
But, only recently, it was discovered that this amazing site was actually built during three different time periods. Firstly during the period of Pompey in 55 BC. Then, around 19 BC, during the time of Augustus. And finally, around the early medieval period. How cool is that?
This Is the Earliest Proof of Maize Being Used
You probably haven't spent too much time thinking about Maize. Unless you are an aficionado of polenta or popcorn, that is. But maybe you should have thought about it a little more since this domesticated cereal grain pretty much rules our lives.
Recently, a new study found the earliest evidence of this grain being a dietary staple. Basically, about 5600 years ago, migrants from South America brought with them unique types of corn, and these, in turn, were used to help sustain the ancient Maya civilization. How was discovery actually made? The dental remains of the new migrants were analyzed! That's so cool.