Archeologists Mistakenly Believed They Found Tutankhamun’s Tomb a Decade Before

In the early 20th century, American explorer Theodore M. Davis found a number of royal and non-royal tombs in the Valley of Kings and mistakenly concluded that one of them was Tutankhamun’s tomb. This led Davis to claim in 1912 that the Valley of Kings “is now exhausted”, which was a decade before the actual discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Tutankhamun’s Tomb Was Discovered By Accident

Despite Davis’ claims, Egyptologist Howard Carter continued excavations in the Valley of Kings, but without much success. It wasn’t until one member of his expedition stumbled upon a carved stone. He noticed that the stone looked unusual, and after removing it, a passage to the tomb was discovered.

Tutankhamun’s Tomb Was Robbed Twice

Tutankhamun’s tomb is considered the best-preserved tomb in ancient Egypt, as its hidden location prevented the looters from finding it. Still, after examining the tomb, archeologists concluded that it was robbed at least two times. Both lootings likely took place shortly after it was completed, with looters disturbing the tomb’s contents and stealing smaller objects.

There is a Curse Associated With Tutankhamun’s Tomb

Shortly after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, a story about its curse started to spread. Lord Carnarvon, who financed the expedition, died mysteriously one year after the tomb was found, while several other members of the team that took part in the excavation died in the following years. Carter himself also claimed that the tomb was cursed, not because he believed in that, but because he wanted to discourage people from disturbing it.

The post 4 Fascinating Facts About the Discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb appeared first on History Chronicle.

Not All Gladiators Were Slaves

While it’s true that most gladiators were slaves, free people also took part in the fights. They were lured by the fame and prize money or just wanted to demonstrate their fighting skills.

Gladiator Games Were Well Organized

Gladiator games were better organized than you might think. There was a whole system that included ranking the gladiators based on their previous success as well as their fight style.

Gladiators Didn’t Always Fight to Death

The movies and books might lead you to believe that gladiators would always fight to death. However, that wasn’t the case. Fights would often end if one of the gladiators was seriously wounded or if they weren’t entertaining for the crowd.

Women Were Gladiators As Well

There is various historical evidence that women participated in gladiator games as well. Female gladiator fights were believed to be less brutal than those of their male counterparts but still popular among the audience. According to some accounts, being a gladiator was particularly popular among upper-class women, who expressed their rebellion that way.

The post Top 4 Facts About Gladiators That Will Surprise You appeared first on History Chronicle.

Participating Greek City-States Had to Agree to a Truce

The Greek city-states often engaged in wars, conflicts, and diplomatic disagreements. But that would all stop for the Olympics. Every participating city-state had to agree to a truce that lasted for one month.

All Free Male Greek Citizens Could Take Part

Every man who had a status of a free citizen could take part in the Olympics. Women were not allowed to compete except as horse owners in chariot racing events. Women-only games, called Heraean Games in honor of goddess Hera, were established in the 6th century BC.

There Was Originally Only One Event

The first 12 Ancient Olympics only featured one event. The participants competed in “stade,” which was essentially a foot race. The number of events steadily increased later on, with up to 20 events being held at a single Olympics in later years.

Cheating Was Punished By Public Whipping

Any actions that would give a competitor an unfair advantage were frowned upon. Those caught cheating would be severely punished by public whipping.

Only the Winner Would Get the Prize

There could only be one winner of the event and there was no recognition for those coming second or third. The prize for the winner was an olive wreath made out of leaves and flowers taken from a sacred tree.

The post Top 5 Fun Facts About Ancient Olympic Games appeared first on History Chronicle.

Neanderthals Were Around for 250,000 Years

While Neanderthals are now extinct, they were around for quite a while. It is estimated that Neanderthals roamed the Earth for 250,000 years while dealing with some of the most difficult climate conditions and nature challenges of all archaic humans. For comparison, modern humans are only around for the last 100,000 years.

Neanderthals Crafted Tools and Weapons

Neanderthals were familiar with the concept of tools and weapons. They would shape stones and bones into tools while also using the same material to create weapons.

Neanderthals Buried Their Dead

Neanderthals were capable of feeling compassion and seemed to care about members of their group. One great example of this is that they buried their dead, which also shuts down the myth about them being extremely primitive.

Neanderthals Used Fire

Researchers found out that Neanderthals used fire like modern humans. They used fire to cook, burn things, and even for crafting. Estimations are that Neanderthals may have started using fire 400,000 years ago.

Neanderthals Created the Earliest Cave Art

Neanderthals were the original artists. The earliest cave art, a red hand stencil in Maltravieso cave, Cáceres, Spain, was created 64,000 ago and attributed to Neanderthals.

The post Top 5 Facts That Prove Neanderthals Were a Lot Smarter Than We Think appeared first on History Chronicle.

Concrete (Ancient Rome, 3rd Century BC)

Although not the first to use concrete, the Romans perfected its use for the construction of their empire’s enduring landmarks, such as the Pantheon and the aqueducts. Roman concrete was made from a mix of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater. This created a chemical reaction that produced a material resistant to cracking from heat and water. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Francesco Meola | Travel Creator | Italy (@meolafrancesco)

The Wheel (Mesopotamia, Circa 3500 BC)

The invention of the wheel is perhaps one of the most pivotal technological advancements in human history. Originating in ancient Mesopotamia, the wheel initially transformed the process of pottery making but quickly became crucial to transportation and commerce. 

Paper (China, 2nd Century BC)

While various forms of paper-like materials were used in different cultures, true paper was invented in China. Paper was made from mulberry and other bast fibers along with fishnets, old rags, and hemp waste. It was a cheaper, more practical alternative to silk and bamboo strips previously used for writing. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GoToNanjing (@gotonanjing)

The post Most Influential Inventions of Ancient Times appeared first on History Chronicle.

Stonehenge

Arguably the most famous Neolithic site in Britain, Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Wiltshire, England. This ancient stone circle, constructed over 4,500 years ago, continues to intrigue historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike with its enigmatic purpose and remarkable engineering. Comprising massive standing stones arranged in concentric circles and horseshoe shapes, Stonehenge is thought to have served as a ceremonial site, astronomical observatory, and burial ground. The monument’s alignment with the solstices and equinoxes suggests a profound understanding of celestial movements and the passage of time by its Neolithic builders.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by vega (@viaggio_j)

Avebury

Situated in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, Avebury is a vast Neolithic complex consisting of a massive stone circle, burial mounds, and avenues dating back over 4,500 years. Unlike Stonehenge, which is composed of standing stones, Avebury’s stone circle encloses the village of Avebury itself, making it one of the largest and most impressive megalithic monuments in Europe. The site’s exact purpose remains a mystery, but it is believed to have had ceremonial, religious, and astronomical significance for its Neolithic builders. Today, Avebury continues to be a place of wonder and contemplation, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its ancient beauty and spiritual aura.

Skara Brae

Located on the remote Orkney Islands of Scotland, Skara Brae is one of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in Europe, dating back over 5,000 years. Discovered in the 19th century after a storm uncovered its remains, Skara Brae provides a rare glimpse into prehistoric life, with remarkably well-preserved stone-built houses, passages, and furnishings. The village is believed to have been inhabited by a close-knit farming community that thrived on the island’s fertile land and abundant marine resources. Skara Brae’s sophisticated construction, including stone furniture, hearths, and drainage systems, demonstrates the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its Neolithic inhabitants.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Steve Denham (@scottishstoneworks)

The post 3 of the Most Incredible Neolithic Sites in Britain appeared first on History Chronicle.

Short Reign

Although King Tut has been revered due to the discovery of his tomb, it appears as if his tomb is actually more impressive than what he was. While many may think of pharaohs as mighty, powerful figures, King Tut was actually quite frail. In addition to a sever bone disease, he also had a clubbed left foot, leaving him unable to participate in many physical activities. In fact, CT scans revealed that it may have been infected, leading the boy king to die at just 19 years of age.

Keeping it in the Family

Despite the identity of Tutankhamun’s mother remains unknown, genetic analysis showed that he was a product of inbreeding. Upon marrying a woman named Ankhesenamun, the pharaoh kept this trend alive. This is because Ankhesenamun was the daughter of King Tut’s father Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti.

The post Mindblowing Facts That May Change Your View of King Tutankhamun appeared first on History Chronicle.

Ancient Egypt

Flourishing along the banks of the Nile River for thousands of years, ancient Egypt is renowned for its monumental architecture, sophisticated culture, and enduring legacy. From the construction of the pyramids and the Great Sphinx to the development of hieroglyphic writing and complex religious beliefs, the Egyptians left an indelible mark on history. Their advancements in engineering, medicine, and mathematics were groundbreaking for their time, while their elaborate burial practices and belief in the afterlife continue to captivate and intrigue scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Mesopotamia

Often referred to as the “Cradle of Civilization”, Mesopotamia was home to some of the earliest known human settlements and urban societies. Located in the fertile region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, ancient Mesopotamia was a hub of innovation and invention, giving rise to the world’s first writing system (cuneiform), legal codes (such as the Code of Hammurabi), and monumental architecture (such as ziggurats).

Ancient Greece

With its rich mythology, groundbreaking philosophy, and enduring cultural legacy, ancient Greece is celebrated as one of the most influential civilizations in history. From the birth of democracy in Athens to the artistic achievements of the Classical period, the Greeks made significant contributions to literature, art, science, and philosophy that continue to shape Western civilization. The achievements of figures like Homer, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the foundation for Western thought and intellectual inquiry, while their architectural masterpieces, such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis, remain iconic symbols of Greek civilization.

The post These Ancient Civilizations Were Incredible! appeared first on History Chronicle.

The Tales of Incitatus

Ancient historians like Suetonius and Cassius Dio documented Caligula’s lavish treatment of Incitatus.  The horse reportedly had a marble stable, an ivory manger, and even enjoyed meals served by servants.  Some sources claim Caligula planned to make Incitatus a consul, the highest elected office in Rome.

Fact or Fiction?

Modern historians debate the truth behind these stories. While some believe Caligula was genuinely delusional, others argue it was a deliberate act of satire. By elevating a horse, Caligula might have been mocking the corruption and hypocrisy of the Roman Senate, highlighting how some senators seemed as useful as a prized racehorse.

The Legacy of Incitatus

Regardless of the truth behind Incitatus’s senatorial status, the story has endured as one of the most intriguing anecdotes from ancient Rome. It serves as a reminder of the eccentricities that can emerge from absolute power and the peculiar chapters in history that continue to captivate our imagination.

The post How a Horse Named Incitatus Almost Became a Roman Senator appeared first on History Chronicle.

Mayans Loved Chocolate

Mayans enjoyed chocolate as much as we do. There is evidence that the Maya civilization turned cocoa beans into chocolate more than 2,600 years ago. They also had a habit of turning it into hot beverages, similar to how we make hot chocolate.

Mayans Had Unusual Beauty Standards

Mayans had beauty standards that could be considered unusual today. For example, a flat forehead was considered one of the most attractive features one can have.

Mayans Often Made Human Sacrifices

Mayans often made human sacrifices in order to appease their gods. Initially, only noble and rich Mayans were offered as a sacrifice, being considered of higher worth, but the practice later focused on criminals and prisoners of war.

Mayans Enjoyed Saunas

Mayans were surprisingly affectionate towards saunas. They would make sweathouses out of stone and take part in sweating sessions as part of religious rituals and health treatments.

Mayans Pioneered Team Sports

Mayans are considered pioneers of team sports thanks to their ball game called pok-ta-pok or pitz. The game was played at a court that had a stone hoop in the middle. The goal was to get a rubber ball through the hoop using your hips. The games often had serious consequences and included human sacrifice by the losing team.  

The post 5 Facts About Mayans You Probably Didn’t Know Before appeared first on History Chronicle.

Archeologists Mistakenly Believed They Found Tutankhamun’s Tomb a Decade Before

In the early 20th century, American explorer Theodore M. Davis found a number of royal and non-royal tombs in the Valley of Kings and mistakenly concluded that one of them was Tutankhamun’s tomb. This led Davis to claim in 1912 that the Valley of Kings “is now exhausted”, which was a decade before the actual discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Tutankhamun’s Tomb Was Discovered By Accident

Despite Davis’ claims, Egyptologist Howard Carter continued excavations in the Valley of Kings, but without much success. It wasn’t until one member of his expedition stumbled upon a carved stone. He noticed that the stone looked unusual, and after removing it, a passage to the tomb was discovered.

Tutankhamun’s Tomb Was Robbed Twice

Tutankhamun’s tomb is considered the best-preserved tomb in ancient Egypt, as its hidden location prevented the looters from finding it. Still, after examining the tomb, archeologists concluded that it was robbed at least two times. Both lootings likely took place shortly after it was completed, with looters disturbing the tomb’s contents and stealing smaller objects.

There is a Curse Associated With Tutankhamun’s Tomb

Shortly after the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, a story about its curse started to spread. Lord Carnarvon, who financed the expedition, died mysteriously one year after the tomb was found, while several other members of the team that took part in the excavation died in the following years. Carter himself also claimed that the tomb was cursed, not because he believed in that, but because he wanted to discourage people from disturbing it.

The post 4 Fascinating Facts About the Discovery of Tutankhamun’s Tomb appeared first on History Chronicle.

Not All Gladiators Were Slaves

While it’s true that most gladiators were slaves, free people also took part in the fights. They were lured by the fame and prize money or just wanted to demonstrate their fighting skills.

Gladiator Games Were Well Organized

Gladiator games were better organized than you might think. There was a whole system that included ranking the gladiators based on their previous success as well as their fight style.

Gladiators Didn’t Always Fight to Death

The movies and books might lead you to believe that gladiators would always fight to death. However, that wasn’t the case. Fights would often end if one of the gladiators was seriously wounded or if they weren’t entertaining for the crowd.

Women Were Gladiators As Well

There is various historical evidence that women participated in gladiator games as well. Female gladiator fights were believed to be less brutal than those of their male counterparts but still popular among the audience. According to some accounts, being a gladiator was particularly popular among upper-class women, who expressed their rebellion that way.

The post Top 4 Facts About Gladiators That Will Surprise You appeared first on History Chronicle.

Participating Greek City-States Had to Agree to a Truce

The Greek city-states often engaged in wars, conflicts, and diplomatic disagreements. But that would all stop for the Olympics. Every participating city-state had to agree to a truce that lasted for one month.

All Free Male Greek Citizens Could Take Part

Every man who had a status of a free citizen could take part in the Olympics. Women were not allowed to compete except as horse owners in chariot racing events. Women-only games, called Heraean Games in honor of goddess Hera, were established in the 6th century BC.

There Was Originally Only One Event

The first 12 Ancient Olympics only featured one event. The participants competed in “stade,” which was essentially a foot race. The number of events steadily increased later on, with up to 20 events being held at a single Olympics in later years.

Cheating Was Punished By Public Whipping

Any actions that would give a competitor an unfair advantage were frowned upon. Those caught cheating would be severely punished by public whipping.

Only the Winner Would Get the Prize

There could only be one winner of the event and there was no recognition for those coming second or third. The prize for the winner was an olive wreath made out of leaves and flowers taken from a sacred tree.

The post Top 5 Fun Facts About Ancient Olympic Games appeared first on History Chronicle.

Neanderthals Were Around for 250,000 Years

While Neanderthals are now extinct, they were around for quite a while. It is estimated that Neanderthals roamed the Earth for 250,000 years while dealing with some of the most difficult climate conditions and nature challenges of all archaic humans. For comparison, modern humans are only around for the last 100,000 years.

Neanderthals Crafted Tools and Weapons

Neanderthals were familiar with the concept of tools and weapons. They would shape stones and bones into tools while also using the same material to create weapons.

Neanderthals Buried Their Dead

Neanderthals were capable of feeling compassion and seemed to care about members of their group. One great example of this is that they buried their dead, which also shuts down the myth about them being extremely primitive.

Neanderthals Used Fire

Researchers found out that Neanderthals used fire like modern humans. They used fire to cook, burn things, and even for crafting. Estimations are that Neanderthals may have started using fire 400,000 years ago.

Neanderthals Created the Earliest Cave Art

Neanderthals were the original artists. The earliest cave art, a red hand stencil in Maltravieso cave, Cáceres, Spain, was created 64,000 ago and attributed to Neanderthals.

The post Top 5 Facts That Prove Neanderthals Were a Lot Smarter Than We Think appeared first on History Chronicle.

Concrete (Ancient Rome, 3rd Century BC)

Although not the first to use concrete, the Romans perfected its use for the construction of their empire’s enduring landmarks, such as the Pantheon and the aqueducts. Roman concrete was made from a mix of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater. This created a chemical reaction that produced a material resistant to cracking from heat and water. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Francesco Meola | Travel Creator | Italy (@meolafrancesco)

The Wheel (Mesopotamia, Circa 3500 BC)

The invention of the wheel is perhaps one of the most pivotal technological advancements in human history. Originating in ancient Mesopotamia, the wheel initially transformed the process of pottery making but quickly became crucial to transportation and commerce. 

Paper (China, 2nd Century BC)

While various forms of paper-like materials were used in different cultures, true paper was invented in China. Paper was made from mulberry and other bast fibers along with fishnets, old rags, and hemp waste. It was a cheaper, more practical alternative to silk and bamboo strips previously used for writing. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by GoToNanjing (@gotonanjing)

The post Most Influential Inventions of Ancient Times appeared first on History Chronicle.

Stonehenge

Arguably the most famous Neolithic site in Britain, Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Wiltshire, England. This ancient stone circle, constructed over 4,500 years ago, continues to intrigue historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike with its enigmatic purpose and remarkable engineering. Comprising massive standing stones arranged in concentric circles and horseshoe shapes, Stonehenge is thought to have served as a ceremonial site, astronomical observatory, and burial ground. The monument’s alignment with the solstices and equinoxes suggests a profound understanding of celestial movements and the passage of time by its Neolithic builders.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by vega (@viaggio_j)

Avebury

Situated in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, Avebury is a vast Neolithic complex consisting of a massive stone circle, burial mounds, and avenues dating back over 4,500 years. Unlike Stonehenge, which is composed of standing stones, Avebury’s stone circle encloses the village of Avebury itself, making it one of the largest and most impressive megalithic monuments in Europe. The site’s exact purpose remains a mystery, but it is believed to have had ceremonial, religious, and astronomical significance for its Neolithic builders. Today, Avebury continues to be a place of wonder and contemplation, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its ancient beauty and spiritual aura.

Skara Brae

Located on the remote Orkney Islands of Scotland, Skara Brae is one of the best-preserved Neolithic villages in Europe, dating back over 5,000 years. Discovered in the 19th century after a storm uncovered its remains, Skara Brae provides a rare glimpse into prehistoric life, with remarkably well-preserved stone-built houses, passages, and furnishings. The village is believed to have been inhabited by a close-knit farming community that thrived on the island’s fertile land and abundant marine resources. Skara Brae’s sophisticated construction, including stone furniture, hearths, and drainage systems, demonstrates the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its Neolithic inhabitants.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Steve Denham (@scottishstoneworks)

The post 3 of the Most Incredible Neolithic Sites in Britain appeared first on History Chronicle.

Short Reign

Although King Tut has been revered due to the discovery of his tomb, it appears as if his tomb is actually more impressive than what he was. While many may think of pharaohs as mighty, powerful figures, King Tut was actually quite frail. In addition to a sever bone disease, he also had a clubbed left foot, leaving him unable to participate in many physical activities. In fact, CT scans revealed that it may have been infected, leading the boy king to die at just 19 years of age.

Keeping it in the Family

Despite the identity of Tutankhamun’s mother remains unknown, genetic analysis showed that he was a product of inbreeding. Upon marrying a woman named Ankhesenamun, the pharaoh kept this trend alive. This is because Ankhesenamun was the daughter of King Tut’s father Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti.

The post Mindblowing Facts That May Change Your View of King Tutankhamun appeared first on History Chronicle.

Ancient Egypt

Flourishing along the banks of the Nile River for thousands of years, ancient Egypt is renowned for its monumental architecture, sophisticated culture, and enduring legacy. From the construction of the pyramids and the Great Sphinx to the development of hieroglyphic writing and complex religious beliefs, the Egyptians left an indelible mark on history. Their advancements in engineering, medicine, and mathematics were groundbreaking for their time, while their elaborate burial practices and belief in the afterlife continue to captivate and intrigue scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Mesopotamia

Often referred to as the “Cradle of Civilization”, Mesopotamia was home to some of the earliest known human settlements and urban societies. Located in the fertile region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, ancient Mesopotamia was a hub of innovation and invention, giving rise to the world’s first writing system (cuneiform), legal codes (such as the Code of Hammurabi), and monumental architecture (such as ziggurats).

Ancient Greece

With its rich mythology, groundbreaking philosophy, and enduring cultural legacy, ancient Greece is celebrated as one of the most influential civilizations in history. From the birth of democracy in Athens to the artistic achievements of the Classical period, the Greeks made significant contributions to literature, art, science, and philosophy that continue to shape Western civilization. The achievements of figures like Homer, Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle laid the foundation for Western thought and intellectual inquiry, while their architectural masterpieces, such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis, remain iconic symbols of Greek civilization.

The post These Ancient Civilizations Were Incredible! appeared first on History Chronicle.

The Tales of Incitatus

Ancient historians like Suetonius and Cassius Dio documented Caligula’s lavish treatment of Incitatus.  The horse reportedly had a marble stable, an ivory manger, and even enjoyed meals served by servants.  Some sources claim Caligula planned to make Incitatus a consul, the highest elected office in Rome.

Fact or Fiction?

Modern historians debate the truth behind these stories. While some believe Caligula was genuinely delusional, others argue it was a deliberate act of satire. By elevating a horse, Caligula might have been mocking the corruption and hypocrisy of the Roman Senate, highlighting how some senators seemed as useful as a prized racehorse.

The Legacy of Incitatus

Regardless of the truth behind Incitatus’s senatorial status, the story has endured as one of the most intriguing anecdotes from ancient Rome. It serves as a reminder of the eccentricities that can emerge from absolute power and the peculiar chapters in history that continue to captivate our imagination.

The post How a Horse Named Incitatus Almost Became a Roman Senator appeared first on History Chronicle.

Mayans Loved Chocolate

Mayans enjoyed chocolate as much as we do. There is evidence that the Maya civilization turned cocoa beans into chocolate more than 2,600 years ago. They also had a habit of turning it into hot beverages, similar to how we make hot chocolate.

Mayans Had Unusual Beauty Standards

Mayans had beauty standards that could be considered unusual today. For example, a flat forehead was considered one of the most attractive features one can have.

Mayans Often Made Human Sacrifices

Mayans often made human sacrifices in order to appease their gods. Initially, only noble and rich Mayans were offered as a sacrifice, being considered of higher worth, but the practice later focused on criminals and prisoners of war.

Mayans Enjoyed Saunas

Mayans were surprisingly affectionate towards saunas. They would make sweathouses out of stone and take part in sweating sessions as part of religious rituals and health treatments.

Mayans Pioneered Team Sports

Mayans are considered pioneers of team sports thanks to their ball game called pok-ta-pok or pitz. The game was played at a court that had a stone hoop in the middle. The goal was to get a rubber ball through the hoop using your hips. The games often had serious consequences and included human sacrifice by the losing team.  

The post 5 Facts About Mayans You Probably Didn’t Know Before appeared first on History Chronicle.