The world is full of wonders and remarkable phenomena that continue to surprise us. From ancient engineering techniques to daring adventures and intriguing cultural practices, here are some fascinating facts that will leave you in awe.
1. Macchu Picchu: An Earthquake-Proof City:
Macchu Picchu, the ancient Inca town in Peru, sits atop two fault lines, making earthquakes a regular occurrence. However, the Incans ingeniously designed the city using a technique called 'ashlar masonry.' This method involved cutting rocks to fit perfectly together without mortar. This allowed the stones to shift during earthquakes and then settle back into their original positions, effectively making Macchu Picchu an earthquake-proof city.
2. Walking from Russia to Alaska (on ice):
The Bering Strait, located between Russia and Alaska, freezes during winter, creating the potential to walk across it. With the shortest distance measuring 3.8 kilometers, it may seem like an exciting adventure. However, attempting such a journey is illegal and unsafe due to frigid ocean winds and the potential for shifting ice. In 2006, two adventurers crossed 90 kilometers of the frozen path on foot before being detained in Russia for violating immigration laws. It's important to remember that crossing the Bering Strait on foot is not recommended.
3. China's Singular Timezone:
China, a vast country comparable in size to the United States, operates on a single timezone, Beijing Standard Time (GMT+8). This means that the sun rises and sets at different times across the country. The decision to adopt a unified timezone was made in 1949 by Chairman Mao Zedong for the sake of national unity. Before that, China had five recognized timezones with variations ranging from five and a half to eight and a half hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time. While this may cause some minor inconvenience, Chinese citizens have adapted, but travelers may experience confusion with their body clocks.
4. The Golden Gate Bridge 'Speaks':
In June 2020, San Francisco's iconic Golden Gate Bridge unexpectedly 'spoke up' about some amendments made to the railings on its bike path. The bridge communicated its concerns, quite literally, as officials received feedback from sensors and instruments installed on the structure. This fascinating development shows how technology is utilized to ensure the safety and maintenance of iconic landmarks.
5. You’re always seven years behind in Ethiopia :
Just like the Gregorian calendar (the one most of us are on), the Ethiopian calendar marks Christ’s birth as the starting point. However, following alternate calculations of the annunciation of Christ, the Ethiopian calendar is seven to eight years behind.
Fortunately, travellers aren’t affected by the difference while they’re there. Modern-day Ethiopia understands the Gregorian calendar and uses both calendars interchangeably. But if you’re keeping receipts for reimbursements, the date printed might make it seem like your trip was years ago. Not to worry though, all you have to do is convert your dates!
The most interesting differences are the yearly holidays — unlike the rest of the world, Ethiopia celebrates New Years on September 11th and Christmas on January 7th (in Gregorian calendar).
Conclusion:
The world never ceases to amaze us with its wonders, from ancient engineering techniques that defy natural disasters to unique cultural practices and unexpected innovations. Macchu Picchu's earthquake-proof design, the temptation to walk from Russia to Alaska on frozen waters, China's singular timezone, and the Golden Gate Bridge's ability to communicate are just a few examples of the fascinating facts that make our world an endlessly intriguing place. Exploring these wonders brings us closer to understanding the remarkable diversity and ingenuity that humankind has to offer.
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