The Al Naslaa rock in Saudi Arabia's Tabuk province is a 4,000-year-old formation that has captured the curiosity of many due to its perfect split down the middle. The rock is composed of two sandstones resting on a naturally-formed pedestal, and the precise nature of the split has led to speculation about its cause. While some suggest that windblown sand and periodic rain may have played a role in creating this unique feature, others have entertained the idea that ancient civilizations could have used advanced technology such as laser beams to achieve such precision. Despite the mystery surrounding its origins, the Al Naslaa rock continues to intrigue and inspire wonder among those who encounter it.

In Turkish Cappadocia, there exists an ancient underground city that was home to thousands of people. The Derinkuyu underground complex gained attention in the 1970s when Erich Von Däniken, a Swiss researcher and author, brought it to the world's notice through The Gold of the Gods. However, even before this, Derinkuyu had been a subject of curiosity among archaeologists in Turkey. Its accidental discovery occurred when a man knocked down a wall in his basement. Upon further exploration, archaeologists found that the city extended 18 stories deep and was equipped with all the necessities for underground living, including schools, chapels, and stables. This underground city of Turkey is nearly 3,000 years old and once accommodated 20,000 inhabitants.

Choquequirao, often referred to as another Machu Picchu, is a fascinating archaeological site located in Peru. Perched above the Apurimac canyon at an altitude of 3050 meters, the ruins offer a breathtaking and remote experience for those willing to make the challenging journey. Accessible only by a 4-day trek, the site provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

While Choquequirao's ruins are not entirely excavated, they still offer a glimpse into the ancient Incan civilization and its architectural prowess.
Credit: @archaic.knowledge

At the age of 17, Cleopatra took the throne and passed away at 39. She was fluent in 9 languages, including Ancient Egyptian and hieroglyphics, a rare skill within her dynasty. Alongside Greek, she could converse in the languages of the Parthians, Hebrews, Medes, Troglodytes, Syrians, Ethiopians, and Arabs. This linguistic prowess granted her access to a vast array of knowledge from around the world. In addition to languages, she delved into geography, history, astronomy, international diplomacy, mathematics, alchemy, medicine, zoology, economics and other disciplines. Cleopatra dedicated much time to an ancient laboratory where she wrote about herbs and cosmetics. Sadly her books were lost in the fire at the Library of Alexandria in 391 AD. However renowned physicist Galen studied her work and transcribed some of her remedies including a cream that could help bald men grow their hair back. Her books also contained beauty tips and herbal healing methods which are now lost to us. Her influence on sciences and medicine was significant in early Christian centuries making her a truly unique figure in human history.

The Japanese have practiced sustainable forestry techniques for centuries, allowing them to produce wood without depleting their forests. One method they use is called shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, which involves spending time in the forest and appreciating its natural beauty without disturbing the ecosystem. Additionally, the Japanese have a tradition of selective logging, where only mature trees are harvested, allowing younger trees to continue growing and replenishing the forest.

Another key practice is the use of thinnings, where small or weak trees are selectively removed to allow more space and resources for healthier trees to grow. This ensures that the overall health and diversity of the forest is maintained while still providing a sustainable source of wood. These traditional methods have allowed the Japanese to continue producing wood for centuries while preserving their natural environment.

Overall, through a combination of sustainable forestry practices such as selective logging, thinnings, and a deep respect for nature, the Japanese have been able to maintain their forests for 700 years without cutting down trees indiscriminately. These practices serve as an important example of how human activity can coexist with nature in a way that benefits both present and future generations.