Of all the bioluminescent life forms in the deep sea, there is one tiny creature who's light show puts all others to shame. This is the firefly squid, sometimes called the sparkling enope squid. Known to science as Watasenia scintillans, it is referred to in Japan as "hotaru-ika". It is a member of the cephalopod family and is related to many other squid species throughout the world's oceans. The firefly squid gets its name from the flashing lights that resemble those of a firefly. This squid is famous for the incredible light show that occurs each year off the coast of Japan as millions of these tiny animals gather to spawn.The firefly squid is a small member of the squid family, growing to a length of only three inches (seven centimeters). The squid is equipped with special light-producing organs called photophores. These photophores are found on many parts of the squid's body and emit a deep blue light. Large photophores can be found on the tips of the tentacles as well as around the eyes. Thousands of tiny photophores can be found throughout the squid's body, giving it the ability to emit light along its entire form. The lights can be flashed in unison or alternated in an endless number of animated patterns. These light shows are thought to serve several functions. They can be used to communicate with potential mates or rivals. They may also be used to disguise the squid's shape and confuse predators, allowing it to escape. The firefly squid is the only member of the squid family that is believed to have color vision. While most cephalopods have only one visual pigment, firefly squid have three. They also have a double-layered retina in the back of the eye. These adaptations for color vision may have evolved to enable firefly squid to distinguish between ambient light and bioluminescence, and to help them decode the patterns of light created by other members of the species.The firefly squid is an active predator. It is believed that the squid can use their blue lights to attract prey. By flashing the lights on and off, they can attract small fish and then pounce on them with their powerful tentacles. Firefly squid spend their days at depths of about 1,200 feet (365 meters). At night, they migrate up to the surface to search for food before returning the the darkness below.The spawning season of the firefly squid runs from March to May. During this time, the squid can be seen gathering in large numbers in Toyama Bay in Japan. They gather here by the millions, and sometimes by the billions, to lay their eggs. Once the eggs have been released into the water and fertilized, the adult squid begin to die. This completes the one-year life cycle of the squid. This annual light show is so spectacular that the area where they gather has been designated as a special natural monument. Toyama Bay lies above a deep, v-shaped canyon in which the sea floor drops away suddenly. The flow of the ocean currents usually wells up from the bottom of this canyon and pushes the squid to the surface. Occasionally the squid can be found washed up on the shore in large numbers during a phenomenon referred to by locals as "squid drowning themselves". This event can cover the shoreline for miles, bathing the beaches in an erie blue glow.Firefly squid are found throughout the western Pacific Ocean where they can typically be found at depths ranging from 600 to 1,200 feet (182 to 365 meters). This squid is considered a delicacy in Japan and is widely fished there during the spawning season. As fishing boats haul in their catches, the sea surface begins to glow a bright cobalt blue. The spectacle is so amazing that tourists travel with sight seeing boats just to watch the show.

Fangtooth

Looking like it just swam out of a horror movie is the amazing fangtooth. Known scientifically as Anoplogaster cornuta, this menacing creature haunts the deep waters of many of the world's oceans. The fangtooth gets its name from its rather impressive looking teeth, which are actually the largest teeth of any fish in the ocean when taken in proportion to body size. Because of its unusually grotesque appearance, the fangtooth has earned the nickname "ogrefish". It is also referred to by some as the common sabretooth.Undoubtedly the most noticeable characteristic of this species is the teeth. They are so large that the fangs on the lower jaw actually slide into specially formed pockets in the roof of the mouth when the jaw is closed. These pockets extend into sockets on either side of the brain. These teeth become a formidable weapon as the fangtooth hunts squid other small fish. Because its eyesight is not good, many researchers think the fangtooth hunts by a process known as chemoreception, where it essentially must bump into something edible as it searches the dark waters. It is believed that these fish migrate to upper layers of the ocean to feed during the night and then return to the murky depths during the day. If a fangtooth wanders too close to the surface, it risks becoming a meal for larger fish species such as marlin or tuna.Although the fangtooth may look like a true monster, it is actually a small fish, reaching a maximum length of only six inches (16 centimeters). It has a short, deep body and with a large head and mouth. The head contains numerous mucous cavities separated by serrated ridges. These cavities are covered over with thin skin. The body of this fish is covered with small, prickly scales, and its color varies from black to dark brown. It has very small eyes that are set high on the head. To compensate for relatively poor eyesight, the fangtooth has developed an unusually prominent lateral line which helps it to sense movement and vibration from the surrounding water.Fangtooth reproduce by laying eggs that hatch to reveal tiny plankton-sized larvae. Their spawning frequency is not well known, although it has been observed between June and August. As the larvae eventually grow into the juvenile stage, they look completely different from the adults. They are light gray in color with long spines on their heads. They also have larger eyes and slightly smaller teeth. This difference in appearance initially caused scientists to assume that it was a different species entirely. Unlike the adults, the juveniles feed by filtering plankton from the water using specially formed gill rakes. These gill rakes disappear as they reach maturity. The juveniles begin to resemble the adults when they reach a size of about three inches. At this time they begin to descend down to deeper waters. Scientists still do not know how long they live.The fangtooth is found throughout the world in temperate and tropical ocean regions including the waters off the coast of Australia. It is one of the deepest living fish species yet discovered. These fish are commonly seen between 600 and 6,500 feet (200 - 2,000 meters), but have been observed as deep as 16,000 feet (5,000 meters). The pressure at these great depths is intense and the water temperature is near freezing. The fangtooth is more robust than other deep water species. Researchers have been able to keep them alive for months in captivity in spite of the vast differences in temperature and pressure.

Deep Sea Dragonfish

The deep sea dragonfish, sometimes known as the scaleless dragonfish, is a ferocious predator that inhabits the deep oceans of the world. Known scientifically as Grammatostomias flagellibarba, it has extremely large teeth compared to its body size. In spite of its gruesome appearance, its is a small fish, measuring only about 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) in length. There are several different species of dragonfish. All are very similar in appearance.The deep sea dragonfish is one of the many species of deep sea fish that can produce its own light through a chemical process known as bioluminescence. The light is produced by a special organ known as a photophore. It is believed that the fish can use these flashing lights in the dark waters to attract prey and even to signal potential mates. The dragonfish has a large head and mouth equipped with many sharp, fang-like teeth. It also has a long protrusion known as a barbel attached to its chin. This barbel is tipped with a light-producing photophore. The dragonfish also has photophores along the sides of its body. These light organs may be used to signal other dragonfish during mating. They may also serve to attract and disorient prey fishes from deep below.The dragonfish can use its light-producing barbel like a fishing lure. By flashing it on and off and waving it back and forth, it is thought that the dragonfish can attract the attention of its potential meal. Once an unsuspecting fish gets too close, it is snapped up in the dragonfish's powerful jaws. The large teeth of the dragonfish help it to grab its prey as it hunts in the dark waters of the deep sea. It will feed on small fish and crustaceans as well as anything else it can find. Since many of their prey also produce light themselves, the dragonfish has evolved special method of remaining hidden from predators after its meal. The walls of its stomach are black to keep the lights concealed while its meal is digested.Because they live in extremely deep waters, very little is known about the mating habits of the dragonfish. It is believed that they are external spawners, meaning that the female releases eggs into the water to be fertilized by the male. The eggs then float to the surface where they remain until hatching. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny larvae are left to fend for themselves until they can reach maturity. Once mature, they return to the deep ocean to spend the rest of their lives. Not much is known about the life span of the dragonfish.the deep sea dragonfish lives in deep ocean waters at depths of up to 5,000 feet (1,500 meters). Although dragonfish species are found in most oceans the world, the deep sea dragonfish is limited mainly to the North and Western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

The Deep Sea Anglerfish

The deep sea anglerfish is one of the most bizarre-looking fish in the sea. Known scientifically as Melanocetus johnsoni, it is also one of the best-known creatures of the deep. It is one of about 200 species of anglerfish found throughout the world's oceans. The angler gets its name from the elongated dorsal spine that supports a light-producing organ known as a photophore. Through a chemical process known as bioluminescence, this photophore can produce a blue-green light similar to that of a firefly on land. The fish uses this appendage like a fishing lure, waving it back and forth to attract its prey.The deep sea anglerfish has a round body that resembles a basketball, and indeed, it looks like it could easily swallow one. It has a very large mouth with sharp, fang-like teeth. Its grotesque appearance has earned it the nickname "common black devil". Despite its ferocious appearance, the angler is a small fish, reaching a maximum length of only about five inches (12 centimeters). The color of this anglerfish ranges from brown to dark gray or black. It has soft flesh and bones and small eyes. Its skin is specially adapted to reflect blue light. Since nearly all light emitted from bioluminescent creatures is blue, the anglerfish can be nearly invisible to other deep sea animals. Due to its wide, round body, it cannot swim very fast. Instead, it somewhat "wobbles" through the water.The anglerfish uses its illuminated lure as its hunts for prey. This specialized spine is highly maneuverable and can be moved in any direction. The anglerfish is known to remain completely motionless, waving its lure back and forth like a fishing pole. When the prey fish gets close enough, the angler snaps it up with its powerful jaws and swallows it whole. The sharp teeth of the angler are angled inwards, which helps to prevent the prey from escaping. The anglerfish can extend both its jaw and its stomach to an incredible size, allowing it to swallow prey twice the size of its entire body. Since food can be scarce in the deep sea, this special adaptation allows it to stock up on food during times of plenty.
The deep sea anglerfish has an extremely unusual method of reproduction. The male angler is much smaller than the female and completely different in appearance. It is about the size of a small finger and black in color. When a male angler matures, its digestive system degenerates, making it impossible for it to feed on its own. It must now find a female or die of starvation. The male angler has small hook teeth, which it uses to attach itself to the female. Once he bites into her skin, he releases an enzyme that dissolves the skin of his mouth and that of her body. The two become fused together and their blood vessels join as one. The male will spend the rest of its life joined to the female like a parasite, getting all of his nourishment from her body. A female can carry up to six males on her body at a time. This bizarre method of reproduction helps to ensure that when the female is ready to spawn, she has a mate instantly available. The female will lay her eggs in a thin sheet of gelatinous material two or three feet (about one meter) wide and about 30 feet (9 meters) long. This thin sheet of eggs floats free in the sea until the eggs hatch into tiny larvae. Once hatched, the larvae swim to the surface and feed on plankton. As they mature, they return to the depths below.The deep sea angler is found throughout the world's oceans at depths of over 3,000 feet (914 meters). At this depth, there is almost no light and the water is near freezing. Many species of anglerfish are fished commercially throughout the world. They are compared to lobster in taste and texture. In Japan, anglerfish is considered a delicacy and can fetch a premium price.

Coelacanth

The strange-looking coelacanth is one of the oldest species of fish in the world. It is considered by many to be an actual living fossil. Known scientifically as Latimeria chalumnae, this fish was thought to have been extinct since the end of the cretaceous period over 65 million years ago. Fossils of the coelacanth have been found that date back over 350 million years. But, against all odds, in 1938, a fisherman actually caught a live coelacanth off the coast of South Africa. A second specimen was captured in 1952 off the coast of the Comoros Islands off theeastern coast of Africa near Madagascar. Needless to say, this caused a sensation throughout the scientific community. Since then, live coelacanths have been sighted and photographed many times in the wild.The coelacanth is closely related to the lungfishes and tetrapods, ancient animals that form part of the evolutionary bridge between sea creatures and land dwellers. The long fins of the coelacanth actually contain bones that resemble toes divided into three lobes. Because of this, it is referred to as a lobe-finned fish. These leg-like fins have earned this fish the nickname, "old fourlegs". Another prehistoric feature of this unique fish are its scales. These highly modified scales are known as cosmoid scales, and are only found on extinct fish species. They are woven tight like armor and are rough to the touch. These hard scales help protect the fish from rocks and predators.Coelacanths are large fish, growing to average length of 6.5 feet (2 meters). They can weigh as much as 175 pounds (80 kg). In the wild, they have a deep blue color which is thought to help camoflauge them from predators. The eyes of the coelacanth are extremely sensitive to light. They contain a special adaptation known as a tapetum, which is also found in cats, dogs, and dolphins. It is the tapetum that causes a cat's eyes to glow when exposed to bright light. This highly specialized eye enables the coelacanth to see as much as possible in the lightless environments of the deep sea.Ceolacanths are opportunistic feeders, eating just about anything they can find and fit in their mouth. They possess hinges in their skulls that allow them to consume very large prey. Their diet is believed to consist mainly of squid, eels, small sharks, and other animals that are found in their deep sea habitats. They hunt their prey near deep underwater volcanic slopes and can frequently be seen swimming with their heads down. They have even been seen swimming upside down and backwards. Researchers believe that this behavior allows them to use a special organ called a rostral gland to help them locate their prey. Once located, their meal is usually swallowed whole. Since food can be scarce at these great depths, scientists believe that the coelacanth has the ability to slow down its metabolism. This allows the fish to go for long periods of time without eating. This may be part of the reason they have survived so long and outlived their other prehistoric cousins. In their natural habitat, they are believed to live about 60 years.Coelacanths give birth to live young, known as "pups". There are usually between 5 and 25 pups born at any given time. These young coelacanth pups are fully formed and capable of surviving on their own as soon as they are born. Their gestation time is 13 months, and it is believed that ceolacanths are unable to reproduce until they are 20 years old. Beyond that, very little is known about the reproductive habits of this elusive creature.Coelacanths can be found throughout the Indian ocean, from the southwest coast of Africa to Indonesia. They can to go as deep as 2,300 feet (700 meters), but are more commonly found at a depth of 300 - 600 feet (90 - 200 meters). Because of their sensitive eyes, these fish prefer the darkness. They are rarely ever seen during the daytime hours or on nights with a full moon. They prefer cold water because their gills have trouble absorbing oxygen in warm water. In Sodwana Bay, South Africa, coelacanths have been found resting in caves during the day.In 1989, the coelacanth was declared an endangered species by the international community. Their current world population is believed to be fewer than 500 animals. This means that without protection, this prehistoric animal that has survived for over 350 million years could be wiped out in our lifetime.

la pedrera (barcelona,spain)

kansas city library(missouri,usa)

cathedral of brasilia(brazil)

Stone House (Guimarães, Portugal)

the crooked house

Mind House (Barcelona, Spain)

sam_the_wizer

strange building

strangest builginga of the world

Tokyo,Japan

Tokyo,Japan is at the heart of a strange and gripping mystery involving seven riddles and a supposed secret underground city.

Pembrokeshire,Wales

Pembrokeshire,Wales is home to a family with a house straight out of The Hobbit

Edinburgh,scotland

Edinburgh,Scotland has a long and strange history, though perhaps the oddest story of all is the tale of a bridge that was buried underground.

Kapadokya,turkey

Kapadokya,turkey is home to hundreds of linked rooms that, together, form an ancient system of underground cities over 2,500 years old.

seattle,washington

Seattle Washington's Pioneer's Square district has a very peculiar historical quirk: a century ago, they raised the streets by an entire floor.

Wieliczka, Poland

Wieliczka,Poland sits atop one of the world’s oldest salt mines, in continuous operation for over 800 years until just this year.

xi'an,china

Xi'an is now famous for featuring the Mausoleum of Qinshihuang, the biggest imperial tomb known to Chinese history.

denver,colorado

Denver,colorado has an impressively large airport, and, some believe, an even more impressive series of underground tunnels.

Wave Rock, Australia

The Wave Rock is without doubt one of the most awesome and beautiful rock formations of the world. This real nature wonder is located 3 Kilometers east the town of Hyden in Western Australia and around 350 Kilometers south east Perth, in the region known as Australia’s Golden Outback. The Wave Rock is 15 meters high and almost 100 metres long. The face of the Wave Rock appears ready to crash onto a pre-historic surf, which was frozen in the time.The rock is composed by grey and red granite strips. According to geologists, the particular shape of the rock was formed by subsurface chemical weathering followed by removal of the soft weathered granite by fluvial erosion; this weathering occurred below ground level before it was exposed. The colours of the rock were produced by the rain chemical deposits (carbonates and iron hydroxide) down the face, forming vertical stripes of greys reds and yellows. It is an interesting and nice spectacle to see how the rock changes its colors along the day, producing awesome views.Nevertheless, the Wave Rock is not the only impressive formation of the zone. The Wave Rock Reserve has also many other nice formations such as King Rocks, The Humps, The Hippos’s Yawn and the Mulka’s cave (a bat’s cave). All these places are amazing natural wonders and have a great importance to the aborigine culture; since, they are associated to ancestral stories that native people have conserved during many generations; therefore, the Wave Rock is also the site of beautiful Indigenous rock art.History:According to scientists, this stunning stone formation is 2700 millions years old. The Wave Rock is part of the north face of remnant Hyden Rock, which is an inselberg (an isolated hill, knob, ridge, outcrop, or small mountain that rises abruptly from a gently sloping or virtually level surrounding plain) made up of variably textured, medium and coarse-grained porphyritic granite (igneous rock with embedded crystals).The Wave RockBecause of its peculiar shape; the Wave Rock has been an important spiritual center for the aborigine Australian people since immemorial times; therefore, there ancient vestiges of human presence around the rock. In addition to the amazing rock itself and the fantastic aborigine stories about this geologic marvel. The Wave Rock has as attraction the diverse wildlife that hosts; since, the Wave Rock is surrounded by the Wave Rock Park; which is composed by around three hectares of native bushlands that offers a real haven for the native and exotic animals and plants that live in this fascinating area.

Uluru, Australia

Also known as Ayers Rock, Uluru is an amazing sandstone rock formation that dominates the desert plains at the south zone of the Australian Northern Territory (a federal territory) in the centre of the country to 335 Kilometers (208 miles) from the city of Alice Springs, in the Kata Tjuta National Park. This marvelous rock is considered a sacred place for the Aboriginal people and is one of the most representative landmarks of Australia; since, it is the largest monolith of the world.Uluru is an isolated remnant of the erosion of an ancient mountain range, a geological formation known as inselberg (an isolated hill, knob, ridge, outcrop, or small mountain that rises abruptly from a gently sloping or virtually level surrounding plain). This wonderful monolith is 348 meters (1142 feet) high and around 9.4 kilometers (5.83 miles) length. Uluru is composed mainly of coarse-grained arkose, a kind of sandstone with abundance of feldspar (50%) and some other conglomerates, such as quartz and other rock fragments (basalt, chlorite, epidote, amongst others) .The monolith was named thus by the Pitantjatjra natives; nevertheless, this name doesn’t have a real meaning in their language. However, Uluru holds deep significance to the aboriginal people as evidenced the numerous Aboriginal paintings and sacred rocks that can find at the giant bases of the monolith.There are several routes to explore Uluru, the most attractive is the route that runs along the 9.4 kilometers of the base, but, this route is very long.; nevertheless, there are other shorter routes, such as the Mala Walk (2 Km) or the Mutitjulu Wlak (1 Km); both routes are very charming and show great part of the beauty and cultural richness of this fascinating place. Another popular option amongst the tourists to explore Uluru is climbing. Nevertheless, this amazing way is only recommended for people with good physical condition. Besides, climbing in Uluru is only recommendable before 9 a.m.; since, after this time, the high temperatures (over 36ºC) make it almost impossible this activity. The walk lasts around 3 hours and offers several marvelous views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Olgas. Another great attraction of Uluru is the wildlife around it. Around 150 bird species, 46 native mammal species, many reptiles and a great variety of plants inhabit the Uluru National Park. On the other hand, the beautiful and dramatically changes of color that experiences the rock at sunset explains why Uluru is an ancient sacred place that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Uluru is simply a magical place and a real wonder of Australia.History:The rock was originally sand, deposited as part of an extensive alluvial fan that extended out from the ancestors of the Musgrave, Mann and Petermann Ranges to the south and west, around 550 millions years ago, between the late Neoproterozoic and the early Cambrian. The erosion process of the mountain range of the Alice Springs zone continued during the Paleozoic , 350 millions years ago and derived in the stone formation that we can see today. Uluru was from early times an important religious center for the Australian aboriginal people. Archeologists have found vestiges of human presence; which dates from 10000 years ago. However, the first European explorers arrived to this zone only in 1870, being Ernest Giles and William Gosse, the first white men that arrived to this region of the Australian Western Desert.UluruIn 1873 William Gosse observed for first time the Uluru monolith and he named it, “Ayers Rock”. The European colonizers tried to establish the pastoralism in this zone during the last decades of the XIX century; without success. Like in the rest of the country, the new settlements established by the white people caused clashes with native people, therefore, the police activities increased in the Uluru’s adjoining region; but, step by step the native inhabitants also known as Anangu were adopting European customs andhabits.Fortunately, around 1920s, many zones of the country became aboriginal reserves or sanctuaries, which were created to preserve the aboriginal culture. Thus, in 1920 the zone of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, was declared an Aboriginal Reserve, by the Australian Government. Since then the wonderful and sacred Uluru monolith became also an important tourist destination in Australiabecause zones such as Barkly Tablelands or Victoria River offered better conditions to this activity.The visitors started to arrive to Uluru since 1936; nevertheless, during the 1940s, the tourism activity was increased considerably, because of the creation of some European settlement in the area. The tourist development allowed the creation of a better infrastructure in the zone, including the creation of the first vehicular roads around 1948. Nevertheless, the fast development of the tourism in the base of Uluru produced several negative environmental impacts. In 1958 the Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park, became administrated by Northern Territory Reserves Board and his name was changed to Ayers Rock - Mount Olga National Park. In 1970s, the government decided to remove all the tourist infrastructure near Uluru and in 1975 a reservation of 104 square kilometers (40 square miles) beyond the northern boundary of the park was established to protect Uluru .The Park was managed by the Northern Territory until 1985, when the National Government decided to return the management of Uluru to the Pitjantjara Aborigines who manages the park with the National Parks and Wildlife Agency. Currently, Uluru is a popular destination in Australia that receives around 400 000 tourists per year, number that was increased since this natural wonder was listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Most of these visitors arrive to the township of Ayer Rock Resort (formerly Yulara), where there is also a Visitors Center that shows the culture of the Anangu people. Uluru owns a magnificence and charm that you can experience, only if you visit it.

Mungo National Park, Australia

The Mungo National Park is a remote and beautiful place of dramatic contrasts in the far southwestern part of the Australian state of New South Wales. It is 980 Kilometers west Sydney (around 12 hours by car) in the region known as Balranald Shire. The Mungo National Park covers around 27 850 hectares of a World Heritage area known as Willandra Lakes, which is a chain of dried-out lakes that were once strung between Willandra Creek and the main channel of the Lachlan River, in Outback New South Wales. Since, this area has been continuously inhabited by human during 40000 years; this park contains the oldest archeological remains found in Australia.The Willandra Lakes Region includes seventeen dry lakes, being the Lake Mungo (which is the second largest of the dry lakes) the most important feature of the National Park. The Mungo National Park is famous by the remains of the Mungo Man, which are the oldest human remains discovered in Australia. Besides, in the park, were also discovered the remains of the Mungo Lady, who was the oldest known human that was ritually cremated.Both Mungo Man and Mungo Lady were buried on the shore of the Lake Mungo, therefore, this region is considered the cradle of the Australian people and is part of the World Heritage sites list. Mungo is the site of the dried up bed of Lake Mungo, its basin is very flat and you could easily see where the old shore was. This lake dried up with the end of the last ice age. Around the lake, it can see many skeletal remains of humans and animals as well as an assortment of fossilized human footprints. These prints give a glimpse at how these early Australians may have lived their lives, hunting and exploring in the lake's swampy marshes. However, perhaps, the most important attraction of the Mungo National Park are the formations known as “Walls of China” and “Lunettes” which are huge sand dunes (around 33 kilometers long) created by the unceasing westerly wind that continually exposes amazing ancient remains. These dunes of mud and sand are located in the northeastern part of the park and were once shores of the lakes and are continually eroding by wind and water. This zone is a fragile crinkled landscape with fluted outcrops and shifting sand, which changes its color from a daytime khaki to the vibrant yellows, oranges, and deep wine reds of sunset. Besides, the park has a mega fauna that includes wombats as big as cow and goannas (Australian monitor lizards) that are 7 meters length, as well as geckos, emus and a great variety of bird life, like the “white fronted chat” (an endemic Australian bird).The Mungo National Park is located to150 kilometers from Balranald and 110 Kilometers from Mildura, which is nearest important town to the park. The unsealed roads that connect to this town with the park can become instantly impassable after rain. Mildura is around 400 Kilometers from Adelaide and 558 Kilometers from Melbourne. There are several roads that connect to Mildura with the main cities of the state, as well as a small airport in Mildura that receives local flights. The best time to visit this wonderful place is in spring and autumn, when the temperatures are milder and there are not great rainfalls. Just outside the Park is Mungo Lodge, where it can find meals, refreshments, a restaurant a motel and cottage accommodation. The park offers also several facilities for campers.History:During the Ice Age, Lake Mungo was a conglomerate of freshwater lakes. The Lake Mungo dried up around 14000 years ago. Nevertheless, this historical region has been inhabited by humans since 40000 to 60000 years ago; mainly by the aboriginal Australians; since, Europeans recently arrived to the region around 300 years ago. The first Europeans colonizers worked mainly in pastoralism activities, like the wool trade.Lunette and Walls of China at Mungo National ParkIn the summer of 1969, a young scientist discovered the remains of a cremated human skeleton, which later would be known as the Mungo Lady or Mungo Woman that is the oldest cremated human skeleton found in the world. But, six years later of the Mungo lady’s discovery, the same scientist found the remains of a male skeleton, buried in a pit strewn with ochre, which is currently known as the Mungo Man. Carbon Dating showed that the remains of the woman were almost 26000 years old; while the skeleton of the man was at least 62000 years old. Then, these human remains became the oldest of Australia, changing the history of the human occupation of this country. This fact caused a great controversy amongst the scientific community; since, this discovery threatened also the human history. Recently, there is a scientific consensus, which establishes that both skeletons are about 40000 years old.Currently, the Park is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of New South Wales and representatives of the Paakantyi, Mutthi Mutthi and Ngiyampaa people. Besides, Aboriginal rangers from these three native tribes welcome tourists to the park and explain them about Mungo and the lives of their ancestors as well as about their own future. Inside the Mungo National park, there is also a Visitor Centre in the entrance of the Park, which is open every day and offers to the visitors a wide range of information about the Park, its cultural heritage and its important natural richness. Today the Mungo National Park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and one of the favorite tourist destinations in New South Wales.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is without doubt the most representative man-made monument of Australia and the most recognizable symbol of Sydney. It is a true masterpiece of the modern architecture. This amazing building is famous in the entire world and is treasured by the Australian people. The building was designed by the Danish architect Jørn Utzon and is considered the most symbolic structure of the XX century architecture.Its unique design is composed by a series of large precast concrete shells, each taken from a hemisphere of the same radius. These giant shells are the roofs of the structure that hosts two main performance halls and a restaurant. The entire building was designed to look like a boat sails billowing in the wind. Stabilizing this unorthodox and complex structure required great innovations in construction techniques. A characteristic of the Sydney Opera House is the ingenious use of platforms, which are a typical feature of Utzon’s designs.The two main halls of the Opera House run from north to south and have their long axes, slightly inclined from each other. The auditoria faces to south and the stages are between the audience and the city. The Opera House is a real freestanding sculpture of spherical roofs sheathed in white ceramic tiles. The interiors are composed by pink granite and plywood. Besides, the Concert hall has the best acoustics of any building of its type in the world and with its 2679 seats, is the home of the Sydney Symphony. On the other hand, the Opera Theatre with 1507 seats is a beautiful proscenium that hosts opera and ballet perfomances. But, this building is much more than an opera house; the Sydney opera House is a performing arts complex; since, in addition to the two main halls, it is composed by many playhouses and studios (like the Drama Theatre, the Utzon room or the Forecourt), as well as several bars and restaurants.Currently the Opera House is home of some of the most prestigious cultural performances of Australia and the world such as The Australian Ballet, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, the Bell Shakespeare Company, the Ensemble Theatre, Musica Viva Australia, the Sydney Dance Company, the Opera of Australia, the Sydney Symphony and the Sydney Theatre Company. It is the busiest performing arts centre in the world, hosting around 3000 events per year with an audience of about 2 million people. The Sydney Opera House opens 24 hours, every day; closing only on Christmas and Good Friday. It can reach the Opera House by bus, ferry or using the city rail.History:The first plans to construct the Sydney Opera House started in 1940s, because of the insistent request made by Eugene Goossens, the Director of the New South Wales State Conservatorium of Music to have a suitable venue for large theatrical productions; since, the usual site used for these productions was the Sydney Town Hall, which was too small to host great spectacles.The Sydney Opera HouseIn 1954 the request of Goossens was heard and the Premier of the State, Joseph Cahill decided to convene a competition to find the best designs for a dedicated opera house. The site designated for the Opera House was the place known as Bennelong Point; this place was also chosen by Eugene Goossens. The rules of the competition, established that the building had to have a large hall seating 3000 people and a small hall for 1200 people. Both halls had to be designed for multiple uses, such as choral concerts, lectures, full-scale operas, orchestral concerts, ballet performances, mass meetings, amongst others. The contest was made in 1955 and the state administration received 233 designs from 32 countries. Finally in 1957 the judges chose the design submitted by the Danish architect Jørn Utzon, who arrived to Sydney the same year to help in the supervision of the project. Nevertheless, the construction began only in 1958, after the demolition of the Fort Macquarie Tram Depot, which occupied the site chosen to build the opera house.The entire project was concluded in three stages. The first stage between 1958 and 1963 was employed to construct the Podium of the Opera House, which was completed on August 31, 1962. Nevertheless, the project’s problems started early; since, the podium columns were not strong enough to support the weight of the roof structures; however, this problem was solved. The famous shells of the roofs were constructed during the second stage of the project; nevertheless, the engineers faced huge problems to find the final designs and technology needed to build the shells of the Utzon’s design. Many schemes were probed, including options with parabolas, ellipsoids and circular ribs. The engineers had to use computers to solve the designs problems. This was one of the first works of CAD (computer-aided design) of the world. Finally in 1961 the design team found the definitive design, whose shells were created as sections of a sphere. The shells were built by the Hornibrook Group Pty Ltd., which used 2400 precast ribs and 4000 roof panels to construct the famous roofs of the Sydney Opera House.The third stage of the project included mainly the finishing of the building’s interiors. In this stage Utzon decided to abandon the project, because of the pressure from the press and the political intrigues; then the control of the project was assumed by the Ministry of Public Works. The works were also made by the Hornibrook Group Pty Ltd. Nevertheless, it had to make many changes to the original design. In 1966 a report made by the acoustic advisor Lothar Cremer revealed that the design of the main hall only allowed 2000 seats; 1000 seats less than the original specification. Besides, this report also criticized the width of the stage, the location of the dressing rooms, the facilities for artists, the sizes of the doors and lifts, the location of the lighting switchboards and many other details.Another change in the original design was the multipurpose opera concert hall, which finally became only a concert hall; whereas the minor hall became an opera and ballet hall. Most designs created by Utzon for the interiors were changed or abandoned. But, despite all problems during the construction; the Sydney Opera House was formally completed in 1973 and cost 102 millions dollars, an amount much higher than initial budgeted amount.The Opera House was officially opened on October 20, 1973. This opening was very waited by many people in the entire world; therefore, it was televised. The opening ceremony included fireworks and a performance of the Symphony Nº9 of Beethoven. Since then, the Sydney Opera House has hosted the performances of the best artists of the world. The building has been modified some times, including the creation of an interior space in 2004, which was rebuilt, respecting the original design of Utzon; this hall was named “The Utzon Room”, in honor to the creator of the Opera House. In June 2007 the Sydney Opera House was included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List; since, this marvelous monument is considered one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity of the XX century and all the history. Currently the interiors of the Opera House are being reconstructed to put in practice what Jørn Utzon visualized.

Pinnacles Desert, Australia

The Pinnacles Desert is one of the most beautiful and impressive landscapes of Australia. It is located in the heart of the Nambung National Park, in the Federal territory of Western Australia, 250 Kilometers north from Perth. The main attractions of this amazing place are the thousands of huge limestone pillars that rise from the desert’s yellow sands, creating an awesome view that looks as a landscape of science fiction movies. These pillars vary in shapes, textures, sizes and colours. The raw material that composes the limestone of these rock formations, came from seashells from an earlier epoch rich in marine life.Some of the pinnacles of the park reach up to 3.5 meters (11.48 feet) tall. Their shapes are jagged and sharp; whereas others resemble tombstones. The best season to visit the Pinnacles Desert is in spring, between August and October, when the climate is mild and the wildflowers become in bloom. Besides, because of the marvelous play of light and the awesome colors, the best view of the pinnacles can be gotten in the early morning or late afternoon.To reach the Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert, you just need to make a short and comfortable trip from Perth (the capital of Western Australia); therefore it is a popular destination in Western Australia. The name of the park, “Nambung”, comes from an aboriginal word that means crooked or winding river, probably in reference to the river that cross the park and give its name to it . This zone has also a very attractive wildlife, which is composed mainly by nocturnal animals; however, like most parts of Australia, the region has also an important population of kangaroos, possums, brush, wallabies, snakes, lizards and emus, which can be seen mainly in the evening or early morning.Besides, near the Pinnacles zone is Hangover Bay, which is definitely one of the most fascinating beaches of the country; it is a white-sand beach from which dolphins can be spotted. The nearest town to the Pinnacles is Cervantes, which is 245 Kilometers (3 hours by car) north of Perth via the Brand Highway. Currently, there is only one access road into the Pinnacles Desert, which is 27 kilometers long. The park opens from 9am to 5pm.History:The impressive landscapes and peculiar stone formations of the Pinnacles Desert were originated several millions years ago. The material of these stone mounds came from sea shells that were broken-down into lime-rich sand. Later, this sand was blown inland by natural elements, like the wind, creating sand dunes. Step by step, rainfalls caused the lime to seep to the bottom of the dunes, generating the formation of limestone.Pinnacles DesertBesides, many plants grew on top the dunes; this fact helped to protect the dunes from the wind, therefore, these dunes were not blown again. This process allowed also the creation of an acidic layer of soil over the top of the dune; then, a layer of calcrete (a sedimentary rock or hardened deposit of calcium carbonate) formed over the soft limestone under the dunes. In addition to the phenomena before described; small cracks produced in the hard layer allowed to plants to extend down their roots, allowing water to flow. This phenomenon was gradually eroding the limestone beneath; this was replaced by quartz sand from the dune above, producing a limestone rock, known as Tamala Limestone.This erosion process continued longtime, leaving only pillars of limestone that were exposed when the vegetation on top of the dunes died, because of climatic changes or bush fires; then, the wind blew again the sand that existed between the pinnacles, revealing the beautiful landscape that saw the first aboriginal inhabitants of the region and we can see still now. The oldest remains of aboriginal artifacts found in this place date from 6000 years ago; nevertheless, there are not evidences of recent aboriginal occupation. Therefore, some people believe that the pinnacles were exposed about 6000 years ago and later covered again by the sands, before they were exposed again in the last centuries.This zone of Western Australia was explored for first time by European people around 1658, when appeared in the Dutch maps of North and South Hummocks. This area was mentioned again by the navigator Philip Parker King, who talked about Pinnacles desert in his journal in 1820. Nevertheless, the Pinnacles Desert remained almost unknown by the Australian people until the second half of the XX century; since, in 1960s, the Department of lands and Surveys decided to add the area of Pinnacles Desert to the existing Nambung National Park, which was created in 1956.Since then, the Pinnacles Desert became one of the most important tourist attractions of the country. Currently, this Australian wonder receives around 250 000 visitors per year and it estimates that around 310000 tourists will arrive to this zone, once the Indian Ocean Drive is completed in 2011; since, this highway will pass within 5 Kilometers from the Pinnacles Desert. Desert lovers and photographers alike flock to this amazing area to admire these enigmatic rock formations that are part of the wonderful natural heritage of Australia.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

The Victoria Falls is called “Mosi-oa-Tunya” by the local people, the smoke that thunders, and constitutes one of the best spectacular natural wonders of the world. With its 1708 meters wide became it in the largest curtain of water in the world also by its remarkable falls. The waterfall is situated in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It boasts of being the largest waterfall in the world with the most unusual in form and having the most diverse and easily seen wildlife of any major waterfall site. The Victoria Falls still inspires visitors as it did with David Livingstone in the 1860s. The falls and surrounding area of this remarkable preserved natural state have been declared National Parks and a World Heritage Site, thus preserving the area from excessive commercialization. During the flood season from February to May is impossible to see the foot of the falls and most of its face, and the walks along the cliff opposite it are in a constant shower and shrouded in mist. The minimum flow occurs in November. Two cities are part of Victoria Falls: at the eastern end of it, Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe lies on the southern bank of the Zambezi River and at 18km south of town, Victoria Falls Airport has international services to Johannesburg and Namibia. The second city, Livingstone in Zambia is a historic colonial city and tourism centre for Victoria Falls lying 10km south on the Zambezi River. Its airport has connections to Lusaka and Johannesburg in South Africa. Victoria Falls - Livingstone sideMosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia is an UNESCO World Heritage site along is twinned to the Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe. It covers 66km2 from below the falls in a north-west arc along about 20km of the Zambian river bank. Both Parks contain abundant wildlife including sizable population of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, vervet monkeys, baboons and a variety of antelope. Lion and leopard are occasionally seen. The river above the falls contains large populations of hippopotamus and crocodile. Klipspringers and clawless otters can be glimpsed in the gorges, but they are mainly known for 35 species of raptors. The Taita Falcon, Black Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and Augur Buzzard breed there. Above the falls, herons, Fish Eagles and numerous kinds of waterfowl are common. The most notable aspect of the area's vegetation though is the rainforest nurtured by the spray from the falls, containing plants rare for the area such as pod mahogany, ebony, ivory palm, wild date palm and a number of creepers and lianas. Some activities can be undertaken such as the “Flight of Angels” providing an superb vista of the falls, the upstream river and its many islands. For more adventurous the “Microlighting” with stunning views of Victoria Falls. Rafting is the most popular adventure. Visitor can also kayak, canoe, go on guided walking safaris, ride on horseback and lunch on Livingstone’s Island. The Devil´s Swimming Pool is a famous feature naturally formed, near the edge of the falls, accessed via Livingstone Island. People can swim as close as possible to the edge of the falls without continuing over the edge and falling into the gorge due to a natural rock wall that stops their progress despite the current.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt

This wonder of the ancient World was located in the island of Pharos just off the coast of the city of Alexandria in Egypt. The great Lighthouse served to guide the sailors that traveled to the city founded by Alexander the Great.The Lighthouse of Alexandria worked by 15 centuries and it was the last of the six lost wonders of the ancient world that disappeared. It was one of the greatest architectural feats of the antiquity.Besides, the Lighthouse was the only wonder that was constructed with practical purposes; since it helped seafaring ships to find the harbor safely. The lighthouse served also as a military lookout for approaching enemy ships and a tourist balcony, because it had two observation platforms. The Lighthouse had two beacons near its summit. At night a great bonfire generated the light and during the day a great mirror made with a concave disc of polished metal, reflected and directing the sun rays. The colossal building was constructed with large blocks of light colored stone and it was composed by 3 basic structural elements: a rectangular base, an octagonal midsection and a cylindrical upper section where the beacons were. Access to the entrance was up a long vaulted ramp, from which a spiral staircase led up to many chambers which were used probably by beasts of burden to carry fuel for the fire of the beacons. According to ancient stories the lighthouse could be seen from up 35 miles (56 Km) away and according other legends, the light of the beacons could burn enemy ships, but this legend is very difficult to believe.
It believes that the Lighthouse was between 330 and 600 feet (100 – 180 m) height and it was the highest building of the world except the Great Pyramid of Giza. Some texts mentioned a statue which was placed at top of the lighthouse and a poet named Poseidipos of Pella who lived in Alexandria in the III century BC, wrote talking about a statue depicted Zeus the Savior which was accompanied by Poseidon the Lord of the Sea.History:The construction of the Lighthouse probably started in the III century BC by order of the governor Ptolemy I Soter who was one of the generals of Alexander the Great and the first ruler of Greek origin. The construction of the impressive building was finished by the son of the Hellenic general Ptolemy Philadelphos around 285 BC.Replica of the Lighthouse of AlexandriaThe designer and constructor of the Lighthouse was the architect Sostratus who was forbidden by Ptolemy to put his name on his work as it was traditional. Nevertheless, the architect wrote an inscription on the base’s walls:”Sostratos of Dexiphanes the Cnidian to Saviour Gods for the seafarers”. The inscription was hidden under plaster layer, covered by another inscription in honor to Ptolemy; but after some centuries the plaster off and the name of the architect was revealed.During its three first centuries the Lighthouse was used mainly with practical purposes. By the first century AD in the Roman time the Lighthouse served mainly as a landmark or day beacon.In 796 the Lighthouse would have lost its upper storey and 100 years later the sultan Toulun (868-884) built a domed mosque on the summit. By 950 several cracks began to appear in the walls of the tower. The Lighthouse dominated the Harbor during many centuries, in 1183 the Muslim traveler Ibn Jubayr visited Alexandria and described the Lighthouse thus: “Description of it falls short, the eyes fail to comprehend it, and words are inadequate, so vast is the spectacle”.Unfortunately two earthquakes in 1303 and 1323 damaged seriously the tower; according to the Arab traveler Ibn Battuta, in this time, it could not enter into the ruins of the Lighthouse. In 1480 the remains of the Lighthouse finally disappeared, since the Sultan of Egypt Qaitbay, used several stones of the Pharos to build a fort, therefore several stone blocks of the Lighthouse can be seen in the walls of the Fort Qaitbey, these stone blocks are clearly visible because of their big size compare to the other blocks of the walls.Recently in 1994 a scuba-diving expedition leaded by the archeologist Jean Yves Empereur found many blocks belonged to a great building submerged in the seafloor of the harbor of Alexandria. Probably these blocks were part of the legendary Lighthouse. Nevertheless, many academicians think that these blocks belonged to other buildings because the original blocks of the Lighthouse would have been recycled to build other constructions as usually Egyptians did.

Kom el Shoqafa Catacombs, Egypt

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, is the Arab translation of the ancient Greek name, Lofus Kiramaikos which means “mound of shards” or “potsherds”. Located to the southwest of the Pompey’s pillar is a multi level labyrinth featuring dozens of chambers adorned with sculpted pillars, statues and other Romano Egyptian religious symbols, burial niches and sarcophagi as well as a banquet room of Roman style, where memorial meals were conducted by relatives of the deceased.Many of the features of the necropolis merge both Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultural points, due to the time period. So some statues are Egyptian in style, Roman clothes and hair style whilst other features share a similar style. During the age of the Antonine emperors a circular staircase used to transport deceased bodies down the middle of it, leads down into the tombs that were tunneled into the bedrock. So its easy access was then used as a burial chamber. According to tradition, this is a mass burial chamber for the humans and animals massacred by order of the Emperor Caracalla, so this is one of the more gruesome features of the catacombs, called Hall of Caracalla. History :Located in Rhakolis a fishing village in the old part of Alexandria City in Egypt; the catacombs survived due to its advantageous location to the historical turmoil taken place during the past centuries has either eliminated much of the rich monuments. The underground tunnels dates back to the 1st century AD and was used until the 4th century AD. On 28th September 1900, according to popular belief, a donkey cart fell into a pit which led to the discovery of the catacombs. But the reality is that Said Ali Jibarah, an Alexandrian man, was quarrying for stone when he broke open the vault of a subterranean tomb. Catacombs of Kom el ShoqafaProbably the catacombs were used for a single wealthy family as a private tomb and later converted to a public cemetery. They are composed of a three levels; the first level consists of a vestibule with a double exedra, a rotunda and a big dinning-table with chairs at three sides (triclinium), including a platform for funeral rituals; in an original state, the second level was the main tomb with various surrounding corridors, magnificent statues, decorations on all proper places, images, ornate carvings and practically everything needed for a funeral hall; the third level is submerged in ground water, also saturated with sand. The large number of grooves cut in the rock is known as “loculi”. The complex contained over one hundred loculi numerous rock-cut sarcophagus tombs, in its final stage. Representing an integration of the cultures and traditions of the Egyptians, the cemetery is unique both for their plan and decoration. People seemed to have a talent for combining rather than destroying, so in this place we find decorations related to ancient an Egyptian theme which makes them quite unlike anything in the world. The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa may not be as famous or visible as the Pyramids but they are equally astonishing and perhaps more intriguing than the Pyramids. In olden days Christians of the Roman Empire this subterranean funeral halls were resorted to bury their dead and evade desecration by the oppressive regimes. Kom el Shoqafa structures were Pagan sects. The members of the Pharoah-Cult placed the intact dead bodies in this place because they believed in rebirths. Considered by archaeologist and all who love their heritage and history, a real treasure by its scripts written, the motif, the engravings, statues and even the coffins. In a sense catacombs were an escape to the oppressed and the hunted to preserve their rituals and heritage.

Karnak Temple, Egypt

The religious complex of Karnak on the northern edge of Luxor was the largest religious site of the ancient world, covering around 100 hectares. Its original name was Ipet-isut that means “The Most Select of Places” The complex is located on the banks of the Nile River and is after pyramids the most famous archeological place of Egypt. Karnak is an impressive set of temples which were part of the Thebes city, the capital of the Egyptian Empire during the middle Kingdom and the new Kingdom.The Karnak complex is composed by 4 main parts. The most famous and largest of them is the Precinct of Amun-Ra; since it is the only that is accessible for tourists. The other three parts are the Precinct of Mut, the Precinct of Montu and the Temple of Amenhotep.The main deity that was adored in Karnak was the Egyptian God Amun whose temple is situated in the center of the complex. The Temple of Montu is located at the north and the Temple of Mut is at the south. In addition to the main temples, there are also several small temples and chapels in the entire complex, such as the Temple of Khonsu, the Temple of Osiris Hek-Djet or the Temple of Opet. An avenue of ram-headed sphinxes (symbols of the Amun god) leads to the front of the giant first pylon where there is a great statue of the king Ramesses II. The first pylon was never finished and there are near this pylon, some remains of a mud brick ramp, which is the only example that shows how the pylon was constructed.One of the most impressive parts of Karnak is the Hypostyle Hall, which is located passing through the Second Pylon. This hall is considered one of the most important works of architecture in the world. The construction of this wonderful hall started during the reign of Amenhotep III and was finished by its grandson the King Ramesses II. All walls, ceilings and columns are painted with the natural earth tones. The roof of the hall is 82 feet (25 meters) high and is supported by 12 papyrus columns set in two rows of six, which are made of sandstone. Besides, each row of main columns is flanked also by seven rows of 9 columns of 42 feet (12.8 meters) high each one. In total 134 columns compose this wonderful place. The hall is ornamented with reliefs that represent scenes of the Egyptian mythology of the creation. Whereas the outer walls of the Hypostyle Hall are adorned with battle scenes of the reigns of Seti I and Ramesses II.The third Pylon was constructed by Amenhotep III, in this zone there are also several impressive obelisks such as the obelisk of Tuthmosis I which is 70 feet (21 meters) height and 143 tons weight or the obelisk of Hatsheput (one of the few female pharaoh) that is 97 feet (30 meters) high, weights 320 tons and was dedicated to Amun. The fourth and fifth pylons were built by Thutmose I and they are smaller than the third pylon.Karnak is a marvelous place that you can visit from 6:30 am to 5:30 pm. Admission costs LE 20 for foreigners and LE 10 for foreign students. There are guided tours available in several languages.History:The construction of the complex of Karnak began with the 12th Dynasty (1991 – 1785 BC). The first temple was dedicated to the early god of Thebes, the god Montu. Nevertheless, the construction of the temple was a work that lasted around 900 years, since many pharaohs of several dynasties added several constructions (temples, shrines or pylons) in Karnak.Entrance to KarnakKarnak was part of the ancient city of Thebes which was the capital and the cultural center of the Egyptian Empire. The complex of Karnak was during a long and continuous time the main religious site of Egypt. Nevertheless, the temple was abandoned during short time when the pharaoh Akhenaton took the power and decided to abandon the worship to Amun and replace it for the worship to the Sun God Aten; then he constructed a new capital and new temples. But, after Akhenaton’s death, the worship to Aten was forgotten and the Theban priests destroyed all the signals of the Aknhenaton reign and the Sun’s worship. Then, Karnak became again the religious center of Egypt.In the IV century BC when the Greeks conquered Egypt, they moved the capital of the Kingdom to Alexandria marking the beginning of the end to the religious center. However, the site was even respected even in the Ptolemy Dynasty and in the early Roman time. But, in 323 AD Constantine the Great recognized the Christian religion and in 346 AD the Emperor ordered to close all the pagan temples. Then the Karnak complex was abandoned and four Christian churches were established within the enclosure of the complex. During the Medieval Age, the ancient Egyptian culture was forgotten and even the location of Thebes was unknown. Only in the XVI century a Venetian traveler described the complex of Karnak. Later several travelers wrote chronicles about Karnak and other important sites of the ancient Egypt during the XVII and XVIII centuries, until 1798 when Vivant Denon a scientist member of the Napoleon’s expedition described the complex with detail.Today Karnak is after the pyramids the most famous and visited place of Egypt. One of the most impressive examples of the greatness of the ancient country of the pharaohs and a great source of information for archeologists from all the world, who search answers about the still mysterious history of the great Egyptian civilization.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

It is also known as the Great Pyramid of Khufu or the Great Pyramid of the pharaoh Cheops as was called by Greeks; who listed this pyramid as the first wonder of the world. It is the only one of the seven ancient wonders still remaining to our days and one of the most famous tourist attractions in the modern world. The Pyramid is located in the Giza Necropolis very near Cairo, the capital of Egypt. The total mass of the great pyramid is estimated around 5.9 million tons and its volume is approximately 2.6 million cubic meters. The great pyramid was surfaced by white casing stones and blocks of highly polished white limestone; therefore the original monument shine brightly with the sun as a jewel. It is a great testimony of perfection in design and construction that reached ancient Egyptian. Many people consider still Giza as a spiritual and energetic place; therefore several privates groups visit Giza all the time attracted by the mystical aspect of the Great Pyramid.

History:Historians believe that the great pyramid was constructed in the fourth Egyptian dynasty by order of Pharaoh Cheops (2560 BC approximately) and its construction lasted around 20 years. It was the tallest monument of the world during 3800 years with 146 meters height. The great pyramid was constructed using an impressive number of workers. Herodotus, the Greek historian who made the first list of wonders, estimated that around 100 00 workers were used to built this colossal monument. Nevertheless, modern calculations estimate that at least 300 000 men would have been required for this monumental work. Previously, it was believed that workers were slaves, but now there are modern theories that say they were skilled workers who camped near Giza for a salary; proof of this fact are workers' cemeteries found by archeologists in the vicinity of Giza . It is believed also that around 2 millions blocks (each block weights between 2 and 15 tons) of limestone, basalt and granite were used in the pyramid.The Great Pyramid of GizaIt is the only Egyptian pyramid that has both descending and ascending passages. The most popular theory about the goal of the pyramids says, they were used as tombs for pharaohs. But, we know that airshafts were built into the King's and Queen's chambers; nevertheless we don’t know the purpose of airshafts; since pharaoh’s mummies don’t need air. Besides, no mummy or remains of any kind have been found inside the great pyramid. These are some of the reasons why many Egyptologists and other academicians believe that pyramids were also ceremonial and religious centers, but the construction, date and possible symbolism of these amazing monuments are not still completely understood. There are several theories about the construction of the pyramids. The most accepted of them say that the pyramid was built moving huge stones from a quarry and dragging and lifting them into place.Another important detail about the pyramids is their orientation, they are oriented 4’ west of north; some experts believe that this peculiar orientation is due to the position of the stars b-Ursae Minoris and z-Ursae Majoris about 3,000 years ago, thanks to this feature; some scientists date the start of the pyramid’s construction around 2467 BC.There are three main chambers inside the pyramid, which are arranged centrally, through the vertical axis of the pyramid; being the largest the lowest chamber also known as “unfinished chamber”, which was cut into the bedrock upon which the pyramid was constructed. The middle chamber is known as the “Queen’s Chamber” and it is the smallest of the three with around 25 square meters of area and 4.5 meters in height. A peculiar detail about this chamber is that was explored using a robot created by the German engineer “Rudolf Gantenbrink”. The Egyptologist “Mark Lehner” believes that this chamber was designed as a “serdab” a structure used in other pyramids in Egypt. The third chamber is the main, the King’s Chamber. It is located at end of the lengthy series of entrance ways into the pyramid structure. Its original measurements were 10x20x11.2 cubits (5.25x10.5x6 meters). These dimensions are consistent with the geometric methods that used the ancient Egyptians to determine the Golden Ratio phi. Inside the great pyramid, there had a great number of sarcophagus and a large gallery, which is 49x3x11 meters. This chamber contains also 2 “air shafts”, which ascend out of the pyramid, directly to the “Thuban” star and the “Alnitak” star in the “Orion” constellation. It believes that, these airshafts were used with ceremonial purposes; since they allowed to the pharaoh’s spirit to reach the stars.The King’s sarcophagus is located in the King’s chamber and it was hollowed out of a single piece of red Aswan granite. A peculiar detail about this sarcophagus is that it is too short to accommodate a medium height person without the bending of the knees, but this burial technique was not used in the ancient Egypt. Therefore, several scientists believe that the sarcophagus was not designed to host a human body.

Cairo Citadel, Egypt

The Saladin Citadel of Cairo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Egypt. The Muqattan hill was once famous for its great views of the city and was fortified by the Ayyubid ruler Salah al-Din to protect it from the Crusaders.It contains the Mosque of Muhammad Ali perched on the summit of the citadel, so it’s referred as the Citadel of Muhammad Ali. This mosque was built between 1828 and 1848 in memory of Tusun Pasha, the oldest son of Muhammad who died in 1816.Around 1860s the citadel stopped being the seat of government when Khedive Ismail moved to his newly built Abdin Palace in the Ismailiya neighbourhood. In addition there are two other mosques; Al-Nasir Muhammad and the Suleyman Pasha, first of the Citadel’s Ottoman style mosques.The Citadel houses a number of museums, ancient mosques and other sides such as Al-Gawhara Palace, the National Military Museum and the Police Museum. This highly visible landmark on Cairo’s eastern skyline reveals a very medieval character when it is viewed from the north (back side).The area where the Citadel is now located began as the “Dome of the Wind” not as a great military base of operations, it was well known for its cool breeze. Later an Abbasid Ruler fortified the area to protect it against attacks by the Crusaders and since then, it has never been without a military garrison. Originally it served as both a fortress and a royal city.History:Using the most advanced construction techniques Salah ad-Din and his successors built an impenetrable bastion in the Citadel around 12th century and for the next 700 years, Egypt was ruled from this hill.Under the ruled of a greatest Mamluk sultan, Al-Nasir Muhammad tore down most of the Ayyubid buildings to make room for his own needs, which included several palaces, a mosque and barracks for his army. The actual appearance of the Citadel, particularly the mosque that bears his name is the vision of Muhammad Ali. A legend around this city said that Salah ad-Din hung pieces of meat up all around Cairo, but everywhere the meat spoilt within a day, a exception of the Citadel area where it remained fresh for several days. Non doubt this location provides a strategic advantage both to dominate Cairo and to defend of outside attackers. He carries this custom from Syria where each town had some sort of fortress to act as a stronghold for the local ruler.Salah ad-Din used the most modern fortress building techniques of that time to construct the original Citadel. The round towers built protruding from the walls so that defenders could direct flanking fire on those who might scale the walls with 10 m high and 3 m thick. The Bir Yusuf, the well that supplied the fortress with drinking water. Now it’s closed to the tourists. Most of the fortification was built after Sala ad-Din’s rule, the British destroyed much of what existed before there.Al-Kamil, the nephew of Salah ad-Din reinforced the Citadel by enlarging several of the towers. He made the Blacksmith’s Tower (Burg al-Haddad) and the Sand Tower (Burgar-Ramlab) three times larger, which controlled the narrow pass between the Citadel and the Muqattam hills. Also he built a number of towers (great keeps) around the perimeter of the walls, three of which can still be seen overlooking the Citadel parking area.Nothing remains of the original fortress except a part of the walls and the well. The Ayyubid walls and their towers were built with the experience from the Crusader wars, and the walls that circle the northern enclosure are 33ft and 10 ft thick. For more than 150 years the Muhammad ‘Ali Mosque has dominated the skyline and it is the most noticeable in all of Cairo. The mosque has two minarets although Ottoman law prohibited it. Behind gilded mosque, a far more elegant one stands the Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad, a Mamluk artwork with a beautifully crafted masonry of elegant proportions. Its supporting columns around the courtyard were collected from various sources including ancient Egypt structures. The conquering Ottomans carried much of the original interior decoration off to Istanbul.Today the Citadel is one of the main attractions in Egypt. Many other wonderful Islamic structures are nearby and a walk from the Citadel to the Khan el-Khalili is a delightful experience.

The Northern Red Sea, Jordan

The Northern Red Sea is considered one of the most beautiful submarine paradises of the world. It is called sometimes an underwater “Garden of Eden” and is considered by CEDAM one of the seven Underwater Wonders of the World. The Red Sea is a salt water inlet of the Indian Ocean which is between Asia and Africa. This large natural channel is around 1900 Kilometers length, between 100 to 300 Kilometers breadth and about 500 meters depth. Its water sometimes turned a slightly red, due to the blooming of a particular kind of microorganisms known as “Red Algae” (Cyno-bacteria or Trichodesmium Erytreum). This also the reason of its name; since, it is a literal translation from the Greek phrase “Erythra Thalassa” that literally means Red Sea.The Northern Red Sea Region is amongst the coasts of Jordan, Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Eritrea. The Northern Red Sea is surrounded by desert coasts, which are one of the world’s largest expanses of sand. Nevertheless, despite its desert superficial appearance, the Northern Red Sea hosts one of the most diverse and beautiful underwater ecosystems of the planet, since, this wonderful sea is the home of many beautiful corals formations and a wide range of exclusive fish varieties.The Northern Red Sea is inhabited by 1000 different kinds of fish, more than 1000 species of invertebrates and around 400 different types of corals; almost 10% of these species are endemic. That means, they are found nowhere else. The great variety of life in the Northern Red Sea is due to the special environmental conditions that this ocean offers. The water of this sea is considered amongst the most saline of the world, with salinity rates that fluctuate between 3.6 and 3.8%. On the other hand, the tidal rate in the Northern Red Sea is 60 cm (1.6 feet). Besides, the system of underwater currents creates a delicate balance that generates a unique climate. The temperature of the Northern Red Sea region in summer is around 26ºC (79ºF), whereas the water average temperature is 22ºC (72ºF). These temperatures vary only 2 grades during the rest of the year. The Wind is also an important factor of the unique climate of the Northern Red Sea; the wind speed ranges between 7 kilometers/hour (4.3mph) and 12 Kilometers/hour (7.5 mph).It calculates that there are around 2000 Kilometers (1240 miles) of corals in this underwater Eden, which is composed by several marine habitats such as salt pans, mangroves, salt marshes and sea grass. One of the most famous fish of the Northern Red Sea is the Bright Red Lionfish, whose dorsal spines are very poisonous, this fish live usually near the sea bottom, waiting to trap smaller fish in nooks and crannies. Other nice specimen that inhabits these waters is the triggerfish, which escapes when it is under threat, launching a jet of water; the anemones, the clown fish, dolphins, sharks, rays and eels are also very abundant in the Northern Red Sea. An important part of the Northern Red Sea ecosystem is protected by the Egyptian government in the Ras Mohamed National Park, which is on of the favorite places of the lovers of the scuba diving.One of the most famous parts of the Northern Red Sea is the Gulf of Aqaba also known in Israel as the Gulf of Eilat. It is located at east of the Sinai Peninsula and at west of the Arabian mainland. Jordan Israel and Egypt have coastlines in this Gulf. Probably the most important port in this Gulf is Aqaba, one of the most important cities of Jordan, which has the same name of the famous Gulf. However, Eliat city in Israel and Taba in Egypt are also two important cities in the Aqaba Gulf. The three cities are used as base by most visitors that want to travel by the Northern Red Sea. Therefore, these cities offer a great variety of tourist services.The Aqaba Gulf is one of the favorite places in the world for diving. This region is full of wonderful corals and great fish diversity. There also many shipwrecks, which provide an ideal habitat for marine organisms. Some Archeologists believe that the Gulf of Aqaba was the place where the sea was crossed by Moses during the famous biblical story of the Passage of the Red Sea of the Exodus Book; nevertheless, this theory was not yet proven.History:The impressive diversity of life of the Northern Red Sea, has its origin 30 million years ago, when the Red Sea was closed at its southern end and open on its northern end, because of this fact it opened up into the Mediterranean Sea, therefore many Atlantic species arrived to the Red Sea and they prospered. Therefore, Red Sea hosts species from both Atlantic and Pacific Ocean.Most archeologists believe that Egyptians were the first to attempt a mission of exploration in the Red Sea; they explored the Red Sea in order to establish commercial routes to the east. This water mass has played an important role in the history of the region. According to the bible, it was the sea that Moses crossed when he fleeing from Egypt with his people. In the VI century BC the king Darius of Persia ordered an exploration mission in the Northern Red Sea. Alexander the Great also sent several expeditions to explore the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Many texts about navigation routes in the Red Sea were written by Egyptians, Greeks and other civilizations of the region in the Classic Age. The Periplus of the Erythrean Sea is probably the most famous text about this theme; it was written in the first century AD and relates a detailed description about the routes and ports in the Red Sea and talks about the first route to the India through the Red Sea.In the Roman times, the Northern Red Sea had a great importance; since, it was the most important point in the route of the Roman trade with India. Nevertheless, in the III century AD the route to the east of Asia through the Red Sea was blocked by the Aksumite Empire. This fact caused the decline of the Northern Red Sea region as a commercial gateway.The European interest by the Northern Red Sea revived in the XV century after the Renaissance. In 1798 during the French invasion in Egypt, one of the engineers of Napoleon, J.B Lepere devised the construction of a canal to connect the Mediterranean Sea with the Northern Red Sea. This idea derived some decades later in the construction of the famous Suez Canal. Which was inaugurated in November 1869 and it is still today an important point of the trade between Asia and Europe.During most part of the XIX century and the first half of the XX century, the Northern Red Sea was controlled mainly by French, British and Italians. After the World War II, USA and the Soviet Union had a great influence in the Northern Sea region. Nevertheless, in 1967 the Suez Canal was closed for eight years, because of the Six Days War. This fact marked the end of the Northern Sea Red as the main route of trade between Asia and Europe. Today most ships use the route of the Cape to travel between both continents.In 1983 thanks to the efforts of several environmentalists like the scientist Eugine Clark, the Egyptian government decided to create the Ras Mohamed National Park to protect the ecosystem of the Northern Red Sea. Now, the Northern Red Sea is one of the most famous diving destinations of the world. There are many recreational diving sites along the entire coastline that surrounded this aquatic paradise; such as Aqaba in Jordan, Sharm-El-Sheikh, Dahab and Taba in Egypt or Eilat in Israel. The Northern Red Sea is definitely one of the most beautiful and impressive underwater ecosystems of the world.