Author: Chloe Bellefontaine

Johannes Gutenberg (circa 1400-1468) was a German goldsmith, inventor, and printer credited with inventing movable-type printing in Europe. His innovation revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge and information, marking a turning point in Western history on the eve of the Renaissance and the Reformation. 1. Born in Mainz Johannes Gensfleisch zur Laden zum Gutenberg was born in Mainz, Germany, around the year 1400 (the exact date is unknown) into a wealthy patrician family. His father was involved with the episcopal mint, which may have brought Johannes into contact with metalworking early on. Little is known for certain about his early life…

In the world of cryptozoology – the study of animals whose existence is unproven – few creatures are as notorious and mysterious as the Chupacabra. The name, Spanish for ‘goat-sucker’, refers to the creature’s alleged habit of drinking the blood of livestock, particularly goats. Since the first reports in the 1990s, the Chupacabra has conquered the folklore of Latin America and beyond. What do we know about this enigmatic ‘monster’? 1. Originated in Puerto Rico (1995) The legend of the Chupacabra began relatively recently, in 1995 in Puerto Rico. Following a series of mysterious livestock deaths (mostly goats and chickens),…

The vulva is an essential but often misunderstood part of the female body. It is the external part of the female genitalia but is frequently mistaken for the vagina, which is the internal part. The vulva plays a crucial role in sexual pleasure, reproduction, and health. Here are ten important facts about the vulva that can contribute to a better understanding of this vital part of the female body. The vulva and vagina are not the same A common misconception is that the vulva and vagina are the same. The vulva is the external part of the genitalia, while the…

Fingering is an intimate act common in sexual relationships, and it can be a positive and satisfying experience for many people. As with any sexual activity, communication, consent, and hygiene are essential for a healthy experience. Here are 10 facts about fingering: 1. Fingering can contribute to sexual satisfaction Fingering, where a person uses their fingers to stimulate another’s vagina or anus, can be a way to achieve sexual satisfaction, especially for individuals who find it difficult to orgasm during intercourse. It can also enhance the sexual experience for a partner. 2. It can help in discovering sexual preferences Fingering…

In the course of evolution, some animals have developed body parts that are disproportionately long compared to the rest of their body. These extreme extensions are often the result of sexual selection, adaptations to a specific diet, or unique ways of survival. From necks to noses and tails, here are 10 animals with remarkably long attributes. 1. The giraffe: The longest neck The giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) is the most obvious example. Its iconic, extremely long neck (which, despite its length, has only seven cervical vertebrae, just like humans) allows it to eat leaves from tall trees inaccessible to other herbivores…

Andrei Tarkovsky was one of the greatest movie directors of all time, known for his slow, meditative movies filled with profound themes and breathtaking cinematography. His movies are visual poems exploring the human soul, time, memory, and spirituality. Here are the 9 best movies by Andrei Tarkovsky, from his early masterpieces to his final and most personal works. 1. Stalker (1979) – A hypnotic journey into the unknown In a post-apocalyptic landscape, a ‘Stalker’ guides two men into the mysterious Zone, a forbidden area where a room supposedly exists that grants a person’s deepest desires. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuOnfQd-aTw A hypnotic, philosophical movie…

The tragic love story of Romeo & Juliet has been an inexhaustible source of inspiration for filmmakers for centuries. Shakespeare’s tale of two young lovers from rival families has been adapted countless times, in classic interpretations, modern reimaginings, and even animated and musical versions. Here are the 10 best movies about Romeo & Juliet, each offering its own unique perspective on this timeless drama. 1. Romeo and Juliet (1968) – The ultimate classic version Director: Franco Zeffirelli Starring: Leonard Whiting, Olivia Hussey Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet from 1968 is considered by many to be the definitive Shakespeare movie adaptation.…

A midlife crisis can manifest in impulsive decisions, existential questions, a longing for youth, and the realization that life doesn’t go on forever. Movies about men struggling with this can be funny, poignant, and relatable. Here are 10 movies that brilliantly explore the midlife crisis. 1. American Beauty (1999) – The ultimate midlife crisis movie Kevin Spacey plays Lester Burnham, a man stuck in a boring marriage, a useless job, and a life without passion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJVXg1AHQTY His solution? He buys a sports car, starts working out, and becomes obsessed with his daughter’s teenage friend. A dark, satirical movie about the…

The Nazca Lines are one of the most intriguing archaeological mysteries in the world: enormous figures and lines etched into the arid soil of the Nazca Desert in southern Peru. These gigantic geoglyphs, clearly visible only from the air, include depictions of animals, plants, and complex geometric patterns. 1. Created by the Nazca Culture The lines were created by the Nazca people, a pre-Inca culture that flourished in the area between approximately 100 BC and 800 AD. This culture is also known for its complex irrigation systems and sophisticated, colorful pottery. The Nazca created the geoglyphs by removing the dark,…

Hidden in the Bavarian Alps, perched on a rugged hilltop overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau, stands a castle that seems straight out of a fairy tale: Neuschwanstein Castle. This 19th-century palace, commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II of Bavaria, is one of Germany’s most visited tourist attractions and served as inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle in Disneyland. 1. Built by the ‘Fairy Tale King’ Neuschwanstein was the dream project of King Ludwig II of Bavaria (1845-1886), also known as the ‘Fairy Tale King’ or the ‘Mad King’. Ludwig was a romantic, reclusive monarch with a deep fascination for medieval…

With its distinctive ‘International Orange’ color, majestic towers, and elegant cables, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most photographed and instantly recognizable bridges in the world. This engineering marvel spans the Golden Gate strait, connecting San Francisco with Marin County. 1. Named After the Strait, Not the Color The name ‘Golden Gate Bridge’ refers to the strait it spans: the Golden Gate. This strait, the entrance to San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean, was named around 1846 by Captain John C. Frémont, who saw its resemblance to the Golden Horn in Istanbul. The bridge’s iconic orange color,…

Mother Teresa (1910-1997), born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in Skopje, was a world-renowned Roman Catholic nun and missionary of Albanian descent. She dedicated her life to helping the poorest of the poor and the dying in the slums of Calcutta (now Kolkata), India, and founded the order of the Missionaries of Charity. Her work earned her worldwide recognition, the Nobel Peace Prize, and ultimately canonization as a saint. 1. Born in the Ottoman Empire Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu was born on August 26, 1910, in Üsküb, Ottoman Empire, now Skopje in North Macedonia. She grew up in a prosperous Albanian Catholic family.…

Baba Yaga is not your typical wicked witch, but a complex and ancient entity, often residing in a hut standing on chicken legs, surrounded by a fence of human bones. She can be both a dangerous cannibal and a wise helper to heroes who cross her path. 1. An Ancient Figure with Many Faces Baba Yaga is one of the most famous figures in Slavic mythology and folklore, particularly in Russia, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria. Her origins are likely pre-Christian and possibly rooted in ancestor worship or nature goddesses. She is often depicted as an old, gaunt woman…

Carcassonne, located in the Occitanie region of Southern France, is world-famous for its Cité de Carcassonne, an exceptionally well-preserved medieval fortified city. With its double ring of walls, towers, and castle, this fairytale-like citadel captures the imagination and attracts millions of visitors each year. 1. Double Ring of Fortification Walls The most striking feature of the Cité de Carcassonne is the double ring of fortification walls, with a total length of nearly 3 kilometers. The inner wall dates largely from the Gallo-Roman period (3rd-4th century) and the Visigothic period, while the outer wall was primarily built in the 13th century…

The Terracotta Army is one of the most spectacular archaeological finds in the world: thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots, buried to guard the first emperor of China in the afterlife. These silent sentinels offer an unprecedented glimpse into the military might and obsession with immortality of Emperor Qin Shi Huang. 1. Guards for the First Emperor of China The army was commissioned by Qin Shi Huang (259-210 BC), the king of the state of Qin who conquered the other Warring States and unified China under one empire in 221 BC. He became the first emperor of the…

The Gregorian calendar is the system we use today to organize our years, months, and days. Whether it’s planning appointments, celebrating birthdays, or determining holidays: this calendar is the silent, everyday metronome of our lives. But where does this system come from, and why was it introduced? 1. The Gregorian Calendar Replaced the Julian Calendar Before the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1582, the Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, was used. That calendar assumed a year length of 365.25 days, adding a leap year every four years. Although this was a clever approach, the year…

Bill Clinton was the 42nd President of the United States, serving from 1993 to 2001. His presidency was marked by economic prosperity, but also by political battles and personal controversies. 1. Born William Jefferson Blythe III Clinton was born in Hope, Arkansas, three months after his father, William Jefferson Blythe Jr., died in a car accident. His mother, Virginia Dell Cassidy, later remarried Roger Clinton Sr. Bill took his stepfather’s surname as a teenager. His early life was marked by the absence of his biological father and a sometimes tumultuous relationship with his stepfather, who was an alcoholic. 2. Talented…

Sharks, the often-feared yet fascinating cartilaginous fish, have been swimming in our oceans for hundreds of millions of years and play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. From the gigantic whale shark to the tiny dwarf lanternshark, over 500 species exist, each with unique adaptations and characteristics. 1. Ancient Creatures Sharks are among the oldest animal groups on Earth still existing today. The first shark-like fish appeared over 420 million years ago, even before the dinosaurs. They have survived multiple mass extinctions. 2. Skeleton of Cartilage Unlike bony fish and land animals, sharks do not have bones. Their skeleton…

Everyone deals with time zones. Whether you’re scheduling a Zoom meeting with someone on the other side of the world, booking a flight, or following a sports match in another time zone: chances are you’re unknowingly using this ingenious system. But how did time zones actually come about? And why don’t they always follow logical lines? Here are 11 facts about time zones. 1. Time Zones Originated Because of Railways In the 19th century, many cities had their own local time, based on the position of the sun. This worked fine as long as people traveled locally. But with the…

Our fingers are so much more than appendages on our hands; they are incredibly complex tools essential for our interaction with the world. From the unique patterns on our fingertips to their sensitivity and dexterity, human fingers are fascinating. 1. Unique Fingerprints Fingers have fingerprints, the unique pattern of ridges and grooves on the fingertips. These patterns (arches, loops, and whorls) are formed before birth and remain unchanged throughout life. Even identical twins have different fingerprints. It is thought that the ridges help with grip and possibly enhance the sense of touch by amplifying vibrations. 2. Almost No Muscles in…

Although half the world’s population is blessed with a vagina, there are still surprisingly many facts that remain unknown to many. Let’s dive into the fascinating aspects of this essential part of the female body. 1. More than meets the eye First off, the term ‘vagina’ is often used to refer to everything down there, but did you know it actually only pertains to the internal canal running from the vulva to the cervix? Yes, the vulva is the real star of the show when it comes to the external genital organs, including the labia and clitoris. And speaking of…

Jeff Bezos is the founder of Amazon, one of the largest and most influential companies in the world. His vision for e-commerce and his relentless focus on customer centricity and growth have transformed retail, cloud computing, and many other sectors, making him one of the richest people in the world. 1. Founding Amazon in a Garage (1994) After a successful career on Wall Street, Jeff Bezos decided in 1994 to quit his well-paying job and move to Seattle to start an online bookstore. He launched Amazon.com from the garage of his rented house. He chose books because it was a…

Dive into the terrifying world of Dutch horror films. From bloodthirsty Sinterklaases to murderous windmills, these films will give you goosebumps and keep you on the edge of your seat. The Lift (De Lift) (1983) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQx8v6Xq3ZA “The Lift” is Dick Maas’s masterpiece that put the elevator shaft on the horror map. In this cult classic, an elevator in an Amsterdam office building spontaneously becomes murderous. Maas grabs you by the collar with this bizarre premise and doesn’t let go. An absolute must-see, if only to discover why you’ll never be comfortable in an elevator again. Amsterdamned (1988) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dk_A5rr-Z6A Dick Maas…

Dutch actors and actresses have achieved success in Hollywood and international films over the years. Here are some of the most successful Dutch actors and actresses who have stepped onto the global stage: Rutger Hauer (1944-2019) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoAzpa1x7jU Hauer was one of the best-known Dutch actors in Hollywood. He played iconic roles in films such as “Blade Runner” (1982), “Ladyhawke” (1985), and “The Hitcher” (1986). Famke Janssen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz8TYyn-k40 Janssen has an impressive Hollywood career, with roles in major franchises like the “X-Men” films (as Jean Grey) and the James Bond film “GoldenEye” (1995). She also starred in the “Taken” trilogy alongside…

Tarzan, the character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs, has been a staple of popular culture for over a century. There have been many different versions of the Tarzan saga in film, each offering a unique interpretation of this timeless character. Here are some of the best: 1. Tarzan (1999) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ie53R2HEZ6g This Disney animated film is perhaps one of the most beloved Tarzan movies. The animation is beautiful, Phil Collins’ music is memorable, and the film features one of the most complex and emotionally charged narratives in the Tarzan mythology. 2. Tarzan the Ape Man (1932) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIoPPD0NKhA The first of the…

Lawyer films have always been popular, with their mix of drama, suspense, and compelling stories about law and justice. These films often feature sharp dialogue, engaging plot twists, and memorable acting performances. Here are the 10 best lawyer films you absolutely must not miss: To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR7loA_oziY This classic, based on Harper Lee’s novel, follows the principled lawyer Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck) as he defends a black man wrongly accused of rape. This film is not only a masterpiece in storytelling but also a powerful exploration of racism and inequality. A Few Good Men (1992) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sLcfQKU_co This…

Epicurus (341-270 BC) was a Greek philosopher of the Hellenistic period and founder of the school named after him, Epicureanism. Contrary to the everyday understanding of ‘epicureanism’ as mere pleasure-seeking, his philosophy aimed at achieving a happy and tranquil life (ataraxia) through moderate pleasure, friendship, and the avoidance of pain and fear. 1. Ataraxia: The Goal is Peace of Mind According to Epicurus, the highest goal of life was ‘ataraxia’: a state of lasting tranquility, free from fear, pain, and disturbance. This was achieved through understanding the workings of the world and managing desires. Happiness was not the pursuit of…

Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz (1646-1716) was a German philosopher, mathematician, physicist, historian, diplomat, and inventor, one of the last great ‘universal geniuses’. His work spans nearly all fields of knowledge of his time, and his ideas have had a profound influence on Western philosophy, logic, mathematics, and science. 1. Independent Inventor of Differential and Integral Calculus Leibniz developed, independently of Isaac Newton, the principles of differential and integral calculus. Although Newton developed his version earlier but published later, the notation we use today largely comes from Leibniz (such as the integral sign ∫ and dy/dx for the derivative). The development of…

While Saint Nicholas brings presents to good children, in some Alpine regions he is accompanied by a much darker figure: Krampus. This demonic, horned companion is charged with punishing naughty children, a stark contrast to the kindly saint. 1. Origins in pre-Christian Alpine folklore Krampus has his roots in pre-Christian Germanic and Alpine traditions, probably related to pagan winter solstice rituals and figures that were supposed to chase away evil spirits. His name is possibly derived from the Old High German word ‘krampen’, meaning ‘claw’. With the advent of Christianity, this figure was integrated into the Saint Nicholas celebration as…

As a toy, she is still adored by children all over the world. Some find her a bit too sexy, while others think she’s too skinny to be a role model. This lady has often been the subject of controversy over the years but has always managed to maintain her popularity. How much do you actually know about Barbie? 10. An Old Lady Barbie is already 59 years old but still looks as if she’s only 22 years young. Her ‘birthdate’ is marked by her introduction at the International Toy Fair in New York, which took place on March 9,…

Marilyn Monroe remains an iconic figure in popular culture, a symbol of beauty and glamour whose influence continues to pervade the entertainment industry. Yet, behind the glittering facade of Hollywood’s most celebrated blonde bombshell lies a life marked by extraordinary upheaval, heartbreak, and shocking revelations. Here, we delve into the top ten most outrageous and tragic facts about Marilyn Monroe’s life. 1. Abandoned and orphaned in childhood Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, faced abandonment from an early age. Her mother, Gladys Pearl Baker, struggled with severe mental health issues and was unable to care for…

The Classical Antiquity, a period stretching from approximately the 8th century BC to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, is often considered the cradle of Western civilization. This era saw the rise of philosophy, literature, science, and art, which laid the foundations for the modern world. Sculpture held a central place in the culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Statues from this time were not only decorative but also served as religious and political symbols. In this article, we list the ten most famous statues from classical antiquity. The Discus Thrower (Discobolus) Created…

When you have ever been to the Spanish city of Granada, you will certainly have seen the impressive Alhambra. This building is an ancient fortress that remains one of the city’s most remarkable attractions today. Learn the most interesting facts about this palace in the top 10 facts about the Alhambra. 10. The beginning was made by the Romans Before the Alhambra was built, the Romans had already established a small settlement at this location. That changed when the Moors came to power in this Spanish region. They conquered the area and immediately saw that this spot was perfect for…

Whoever has been to Florence has surely seen it: the Ponte Vecchio. The literal translation of this famous medieval bridge is, fittingly enough, “old bridge.” On the bridge, you will mainly find jewelers and a few other shops that are very popular with tourists. Are you planning a trip to Florence soon and curious to learn more about the Ponte Vecchio? We’ve gathered the ten most interesting facts for you. 10. The current bridge is not the original structure The Ponte Vecchio, or the old bridge, was officially opened in 1345. However, the bridge we see today is not the…

When it comes to remarkable architecture, Antoni Gaudí is a name that stands out. This Spanish architect made a name for himself thanks to his love for natural forms and striking design. No fewer than seven of his buildings are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You can read more about the most famous buildings of this Spaniard in the top 10 buildings of Gaudí. 10. Casa Vicens Casa Vicens is one of the first major buildings Gaudí created. Some even call it one of his most spectacular works. Casa Vicens stands out due to its bright colors and intricate…

Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue in the heart of Brussels, is more than just a tourist attraction. This peeing boy is a deeply rooted symbol of Belgian humor, independence, and cultural identity. Below is an overview of its fascinating history, unique traditions, and its place in art and culture, illustrating the indelible impression Manneken Pis has left on the world. 1. Tiny Statue with Enormous Fame Manneken Pis is surprisingly small, standing just 61 centimeters tall, but its fame stretches across the globe. This bronze statue of a peeing boy is one of the most photographed and well-known symbols…

Despite their minuscule size, atoms play a crucial role in literally everything around us; from the chair you sit on to the air you breathe. It’s easy to forget how amazing these microscopic particles really are. Therefore, a list of 10 facts about atoms, the building blocks of everything. A human hair is approximately 500,000 atoms wide Hairs seem narrow, but compared to atoms, that’s quite substantial. An average human hair is namely 500,000 atoms wide. This figure is derived by dividing the average diameter of a human hair, which is about 50 micrometers, by the diameter of a typical…

The Kama Sutra, an ancient Indian scripture, is primarily known for its profound exploration of sexuality, pleasure, and interpersonal relationships. But there is much more to this work than just the well-known sexual positions. In this article, we describe some fascinating and lesser-known facts about this famous book. Origin and Author Contrary to popular belief, the Kama Sutra is not the work of a single author. It is said to be a compilation of various works, with Vatsyayana, an ancient Indian sage, being credited for writing the main sections. Although the exact time of authorship is still unknown, it is…

Nipples, a subject often surrounded by a mix of curiosity, taboo, and fascination, are actually marvelous aspects of the human body. They serve not only a crucial role in reproduction and feeding our youngest, but are also a source of pleasure and aesthetics. In this informal and comprehensive article, we dive into the world of nipples, exploring their diversity, functionality, and some surprising facts you might not know yet. From erogenous potential to Guinness World Records, prepare for a journey through the intriguing and sometimes unexpected aspects of nipples. 1. A source of pleasure for everyone Did you know that…