The Grottoes of Catullus are the remains of a large Roman villa located on the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, which extends into Lake Garda in northern Italy. These ruins have been associated with the Roman poet Gaius Valerius Catullus, although there is no direct evidence that the villa belonged to him. The structure…
Villers Abbey
Villers Abbey, located in Villers-la-Ville, Belgium, is one of the most notable examples of Cistercian architecture in Europe. Founded in AD 1146, it played a significant role in the medieval monastic landscape. Its ruins provide insight into Cistercian life, architecture, and spirituality during the Middle Ages.Historical BackgroundThe Cistercian order was established in AD 1098. It…
Lavinium
Lavinium was an ancient city located in Latium, central Italy, about 19 miles south of Rome. It played a significant role in Roman mythology and early Roman history. According to tradition, Lavinium was founded by Aeneas, a Trojan hero who fled after the fall of Troy. The city’s name was derived from his wife, Lavinia,…
Codex Gigas
The Codex Gigas is one of the largest and most mysterious medieval manuscripts ever created. Known as the “Devil’s Bible,” it is famous for its size, elaborate artwork, and the legend surrounding its creation. It was written in the early 13th century AD, and remains a historical artifact of great interest due to its content…
Egyptian Lost Book of the Dead
The Book of the Dead is an ancient Egyptian funerary text that helped the dead navigate the afterlife. It is not a single book but a collection of magical spells written on papyrus. These texts evolved over centuries, reflecting the religious beliefs and practices of different periods in Egyptian history.Origins and DevelopmentThe Book of the…
Carlungie Earth House
Carlungie Earth House, located in Angus, Scotland, is a unique archaeological structure dating back to the late Iron Age, around 200 to 400 AD. This type of site, known as a souterrain, was used by Iron Age communities in Scotland, and Carlungie is one of the most well-preserved examples.Discovery and ExcavationIn 1949, archaeologists first discovered…