Artefact History Channel

Mount Roraima, one of most intriguing places on Earth, is located in remote Gran Sabana region of Venezuela. This majestic tabletop mountain, also known as a tepui, stands as one of world's most beautiful and impressive natural wonders. Rising almost 3000m above sea level, its flat-topped summit and sheer cliffs have captivated scientists, adventurers, and tourists alike for centuries.

For over 500 years, scientists from around the globe have been fascinated by Mount Roraima’s unique geological features. The mountain's unnatural morphology sets it apart from typical mountainous formations. Most mountains are formed by tectonic activity, where the Earth's crust is pushed up by movement of plates. However, Mount Roraima’s formation dates back to Precambrian era, making it approximately 2 billion years old, one of oldest geological formations on Earth.

The mountain is part of Guiana Shield, a craton that comprises some of oldest rocks in the world. The flat summit and steep, vertical walls of Mount Roraima are composed of quartzite and sandstone, resistant to erosion. Over millions of years, the forces of wind, rain and temperature changes have carved out its unique shape, creating a natural fortress that stands isolated from surrounding landscape.

The summit of Mount Roraima is a surreal world, often described as a "lost world" due to its isolation and unique ecosystem. Plateau covers an area of approximately 31 square kilometers and is often shrouded in mist, adding to its mystical aura. Weather on summit is unpredictable, with frequent rains and temperatures ranging from warm during day to freezing at night. This isolated environment has led to development of a unique ecosystem, home to many endemic species of plants and animals not found anywhere else on Earth. Carnivorous plants like pitcher plant and sundew thrive here, adapted to nutrient-poor soil by trapping and digesting insects. Plateau is also home to a variety of unique orchids and bromeliads, adding to botanical richness of area.

Mount Roraima holds significant cultural and mythological importance for indigenous Pemon and Kapon people who inhabit Gran Sabana region. They refer to mountain as "Roraima," (Mother of all Waters) due to numerous waterfalls that cascade down its cliffs. Indigenous peoples believe that mountain is a sacred place, inhabited by spirits and deities. One of most famous legends is that of giant tree that once grew on summit of Mount Roraima. According to myth, this tree was source of all the fruits and vegetables in the world. When it was cut down, it caused a great flood and mountain was formed from stump of this tree. This legend has parallels with various flood myths found in different cultures around the world.

Mystery and allure of Mount Roraima have made it a popular destination for adventurers and tourists. The first recorded expedition to the summit was in 1884, led by British explorer Everard im Thurn. Since then, it has attracted numerous climbers and trekkers, eager to experience its unique landscape and breathtaking views. Most common route to summit is via Gran Sabana in Venezuela, a trek that typically takes several days and involves traversing dense rainforests, crossing rivers and scaling steep inclines. Despite the challenges, those who reach top are rewarded with an otherworldly landscape, dotted with strange rock formations, crystal-clear pools and panoramic views that stretch across three countries: Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana.

Given its ecological and cultural significance, there have been ongoing efforts to preserve Mount Roraima and its unique environment. Mountain is part of Canaima National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which provides a level of protection against deforestation, mining and other environmental threats. However, increasing tourism and potential for ecological disturbance pose ongoing challenges.

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Artefact History Channel

Wadi Al-Hitan, or the Valley of the Whales, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Egypt’s Western Desert. It features an extraordinary collection of fossilized whale skeletons from the Eocene Epoch, a time when the region was submerged beneath a shallow, nutrient-rich sea. Among these discoveries are species like Basilosaurus isis and Dorudon, which still retained small hind limbs, feet, and toes.

First uncovered in 1902, the site also preserves evidence of ancient marine life, including sea cows, marine turtles, and mangrove roots that once flourished in this prehistoric environment. Between 1983 and 2007, expeditions unearthed around 400 skeletons, providing a detailed glimpse into the marine world of this ancient epoch.

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Artefact History Channel

https://youtu.be/PSo-IfRB-y8

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Artefact History Channel

The Snake Bridge in Macclesfield, England, is a remarkable feat of engineering, designed to facilitate the smooth operation of the Macclesfield Canal. This innovative bridge allowed horses to cross the canal while towing boats, eliminating the need to unhitch the tow lines. Its unique design, often referred to as a roving or changeline bridge, features spiral ramps or split structures, which enabled horses to navigate the crossing without interruption, making it a crucial part of the canal's operation.

As a Grade II listed structure, the Snake Bridge is recognized for its historical and architectural significance. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its creators and the importance of Britain's canal system during the 19th century. Its design not only improved the efficiency of the canal but also showcased the engineering prowess of the time.

The Macclesfield Canal, where the Snake Bridge is located, stretches over 26 miles and opened in 1831. With 13 locks, including the Bosley Lock Flight, which raises the canal by 118 feet, the canal remains a vital part of England's industrial heritage, and the Snake Bridge continues to be a symbol of its lasting legacy.

7 months ago | [YT] | 152

Artefact History Channel

Nestled on the dramatic slopes of the Sarawat Mountains in Saudi Arabia lies a fascinating relic from the past—a medieval stone apiary that dates back to around 1200 AD. This impressive structure once boasted 1,200 beehives, playing a crucial role in the region's honey production. The meticulously crafted terraces reflect the remarkable ingenuity of the people who designed this complex, perfectly adapted to tap into the abundant natural resources of their surroundings. Today, this apiary serves as an extraordinary glimpse into the agricultural practices of the Arabian Peninsula during medieval times, inviting us to marvel at the skills and knowledge of those who came before us.

8 months ago | [YT] | 191

Artefact History Channel

The Nebra Sky Disc, created over 3,600 years ago by the Unetice culture of Central Europe, is widely regarded as the oldest known depiction of the cosmos. This bronze artifact, discovered in Germany, features intricate gold inlays of the sun, a crescent moon, and a star cluster likely representing the Pleiades, a key marker in agricultural calendars.

Two arcs on the edges appear to align with solstices, hinting at its use in tracking seasonal changes. A curved band at the base, debated by scholars, may represent a solar boat symbolizing the sun’s daily journey, the Milky Way, or perhaps the horizon. While the disc’s precise purpose remains uncertain, it showcases a sophisticated understanding of celestial patterns in the early Bronze Age.

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Artefact History Channel

Did you know that the Minoans of Crete developed the first flushing toilet more than 3,700 years ago? This remarkable invention, which had a wooden seat, was discovered in the Palace of Knossos and was integrated into a sophisticated plumbing system that effectively managed waste through drainage pipes. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! This innovative setup also channeled rainwater and provided clean water, showcasing their advanced understanding of sanitation long before the Romans improved upon similar technologies. The brilliance of the Minoans highlights their legacy as some of history's most talented engineers, and their creations continue to captivate and inspire us to this day!

8 months ago | [YT] | 134

Artefact History Channel

The Balancing Rock - Druid's Idol - located within the stunning Brimham Rocks near Harrogate, Yorkshire - England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇬🇧

Formed naturally over millions of years, the many formations at the site are just incredible, not least this one, which seems to defy all logic and science. However, having visited and sat under it, I can assure that this is a genuine photo of a genuine rock formation, taken during my visit last December.

'In 18th-19th Centuries, antiquarians such as Hayman Rooke wondered whether they could have been at least partly carved by druids, an idea that ran concurrently with the popularity of James Macpherson's Fragments of Ancient Poetry of 1760, and a developing interest in New-Druidism. For up to two hundred years, some stones have carried fanciful names, such as Druid's Idol'.

8 months ago | [YT] | 248

Artefact History Channel

Hidden in the remote and rugged landscapes of the Pir Panjal range, within the Jammu Division of Jammu and Kashmir, India, lies a fascinating mystery—the Mysterious Horsemen. These enigmatic stone figures, scattered across at least three secluded locations, have puzzled historians and archaeologists alike.
One of the most striking sites is in Gool, located in the Ramban District, where over a hundred of these majestic horsemen stand tall. Some of these statues tower over 8 feet, crafted in lifelike proportions, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. The sheer number and grandeur of these figures at this single site alone are enough to spark curiosity and wonder.
The origins of these horsemen remain shrouded in mystery. Some theories suggest they were the work of the White Huns, also known as the Svet Hunas or Hephthalites—a Central Asian tribe that ruled this region between the 5th and 7th centuries. Mihirkula, one of their most notorious rulers, is often linked to this era. Yet, the true purpose behind their creation and the identity of their makers remain unanswered questions that continue to intrigue researchers.
Adding to the allure, three of these mysterious horsemen are now displayed at the SPS Museum in Kashmir, offering a glimpse into this ancient enigma.
Gool, Ramban District, Jammu Division, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir—home to a timeless mystery waiting to be unraveled.

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Artefact History Channel

Unveiling the Mysteries of the Treasury of Atreus: A Glimpse into Mycenaean Grandeur 😳😳😳
Situated in the iconic ruins of Mycenae, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Treasury of Atreus stands as a stunning example of ancient Greek architectural brilliance. Commonly referred to as Agamemnon's Tomb, this magnificent structure has enchanted both tourists and historians for centuries.

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