September 20, 2021

Medieval Merlin Manuscript Michael Richardson, special collections librarian at the University of Bristol, wasn’t expecting to find several medieval fragments written in Old French glued into the binding of a late 15th-century tome, where two familiar names were scratched on the parchment: “Merlin” and “Arthur.” Scholars have determined these fragments are evidence of one of the oldest known Arthurian manuscripts of its kind, and that they spin a different tale from the version of events scholars already knew.  READ MORE → New Zealand’s Dark Sky Reserve Lakestone, an off-the-grid lodge on the edge of brilliantly blue Lake Pukaki, is located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand. From the lodge, the nearest traffic light is about a 100-mile drive. This reserve, designated in 2012 and covering more than 1,600 square miles, protects more than just the night sky. It offers a respite from the impacts of light pollution for every living creature within its boundaries, from endangered insects to humans who have forgotten the Milky Way. READ MORE → LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA Capitol Records Building Morse Code This iconic Los Angeles landmark has been emitting secret messages since it opened. However, only those with a keen eye for Morse code can decipher what they say. It was the former president of Capitol Records, Alan Livingston, who got the idea to have the light on top of the building send out the word “Hollywood” in Morse code. The light has been sending out the same message ever since—with a few exceptions. READ MORE → ATLAS OBSCURA EXPERIENCES Sneak Peek: New York Public Library's New Treasures Exhibition Get a virtual sneak peek at the brand new Polonsky Exhibition of The New York Public Library’s Treasures before it opens to the public! Housed inside the iconic Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, this new exhibition features 250 of the most rare and unique items from the library's extensive collections, including Thomas Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence and Malcolm X’s briefcase. Be among the first to see this delightful new exhibit! LEARN MORE → ASHLAND, MASSACHUSETTS Stone's Public House Tucked away in the historic district of downtown Ashland, near the old railroad tracks, is a two-story red building. A portrait of a man is prominently displayed on the sign, hanging above the main entrance. This is Stone’s Public House. Massachusetts and the New England area are home to many historical pubs. However, the story of Stone’s and its alleged ghosts is what draws many visitors through its doors. READ MORE → EASLEY, SOUTH CAROLINA Tiny Town of Easley Perry and Ollie Jennings began Tiny Town in 1974, when Perry built Ollie a small replica of the log cabin she had always wanted to live in, but knew was unlikely in her future. The mini version of her dream home brought so much pleasure that the building continued, and soon the small token of affection became an entire, tiny town, with both of the Jennings working together to build a miniature version of their very own little town. In 2009, after both Jennings had passed on, Tiny Town had a total of 80 structures. READ MORE → GASTRO OBSCURA Rescuing Forgotten Fruit The epicenter of America’s tech industry was once orchards as far as the eye can see. California’s Silicon Valley, as it happens, used to be known as the Valley of Heart’s Delight, a slogan that often accompanied illustrations of sunshine and fruit trees. The campuses of Google, Facebook, and other businesses have pushed out most fruit growers, but some are left, like C. Todd Kennedy, one of California’s premier fruit experts, collectors, and growers. His four-decade dedication to fruit has been remarkably important in preserving and adding to America’s agricultural legacy. READ MORE → PARIS, FRANCE Statue of Liberty, Pont de Grenelle There are many magnificent sites one can expect to see from the top of the Eiffel Tower: the Arc de Triomphe; Notre-Dame Cathedral; the Louvre. Something one might not expect to see is a replica of the Statue of Liberty. And yet, just to the south, smack dab in the middle of the river Seine, by golly there it is. READ MORE → ATLAS OBSCURA TRIPS Explore Hidden Florence Discover a different side of Florence, one that most tourists never experience! Explore secret society meeting places and private residences, and even enjoy a concert at a marquis home. We've just added a new departure for December 2021. BOOK NOW. →