Author: Chloe Bellefontaine

As a toy, she is still adored by children all over the world. Some find her a bit too sexy, while others think she’s too skinny to be a role model. This lady has often been the subject of controversy over the years but has always managed to maintain her popularity. How much do you actually know about Barbie? 10. An Old Lady Barbie is already 59 years old but still looks as if she’s only 22 years young. Her ‘birthdate’ is marked by her introduction at the International Toy Fair in New York, which took place on March 9,…

Marilyn Monroe remains an iconic figure in popular culture, a symbol of beauty and glamour whose influence continues to pervade the entertainment industry. Yet, behind the glittering facade of Hollywood’s most celebrated blonde bombshell lies a life marked by extraordinary upheaval, heartbreak, and shocking revelations. Here, we delve into the top ten most outrageous and tragic facts about Marilyn Monroe’s life. 1. Abandoned and orphaned in childhood Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson on June 1, 1926, faced abandonment from an early age. Her mother, Gladys Pearl Baker, struggled with severe mental health issues and was unable to care for…

The Classical Antiquity, a period stretching from approximately the 8th century BC to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, is often considered the cradle of Western civilization. This era saw the rise of philosophy, literature, science, and art, which laid the foundations for the modern world. Sculpture held a central place in the culture of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Statues from this time were not only decorative but also served as religious and political symbols. In this article, we list the ten most famous statues from classical antiquity. The Discus Thrower (Discobolus) Created…

When you have ever been to the Spanish city of Granada, you will certainly have seen the impressive Alhambra. This building is an ancient fortress that remains one of the city’s most remarkable attractions today. Learn the most interesting facts about this palace in the top 10 facts about the Alhambra. 10. The beginning was made by the Romans Before the Alhambra was built, the Romans had already established a small settlement at this location. That changed when the Moors came to power in this Spanish region. They conquered the area and immediately saw that this spot was perfect for…

Whoever has been to Florence has surely seen it: the Ponte Vecchio. The literal translation of this famous medieval bridge is, fittingly enough, “old bridge.” On the bridge, you will mainly find jewelers and a few other shops that are very popular with tourists. Are you planning a trip to Florence soon and curious to learn more about the Ponte Vecchio? We’ve gathered the ten most interesting facts for you. 10. The current bridge is not the original structure The Ponte Vecchio, or the old bridge, was officially opened in 1345. However, the bridge we see today is not the…

When it comes to remarkable architecture, Antoni Gaudí is a name that stands out. This Spanish architect made a name for himself thanks to his love for natural forms and striking design. No fewer than seven of his buildings are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You can read more about the most famous buildings of this Spaniard in the top 10 buildings of Gaudí. 10. Casa Vicens Casa Vicens is one of the first major buildings Gaudí created. Some even call it one of his most spectacular works. Casa Vicens stands out due to its bright colors and intricate…

Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue in the heart of Brussels, is more than just a tourist attraction. This peeing boy is a deeply rooted symbol of Belgian humor, independence, and cultural identity. Below is an overview of its fascinating history, unique traditions, and its place in art and culture, illustrating the indelible impression Manneken Pis has left on the world. 1. Tiny Statue with Enormous Fame Manneken Pis is surprisingly small, standing just 61 centimeters tall, but its fame stretches across the globe. This bronze statue of a peeing boy is one of the most photographed and well-known symbols…

Despite their minuscule size, atoms play a crucial role in literally everything around us; from the chair you sit on to the air you breathe. It’s easy to forget how amazing these microscopic particles really are. Therefore, a list of 10 facts about atoms, the building blocks of everything. A human hair is approximately 500,000 atoms wide Hairs seem narrow, but compared to atoms, that’s quite substantial. An average human hair is namely 500,000 atoms wide. This figure is derived by dividing the average diameter of a human hair, which is about 50 micrometers, by the diameter of a typical…

The Kama Sutra, an ancient Indian scripture, is primarily known for its profound exploration of sexuality, pleasure, and interpersonal relationships. But there is much more to this work than just the well-known sexual positions. In this article, we describe some fascinating and lesser-known facts about this famous book. Origin and Author Contrary to popular belief, the Kama Sutra is not the work of a single author. It is said to be a compilation of various works, with Vatsyayana, an ancient Indian sage, being credited for writing the main sections. Although the exact time of authorship is still unknown, it is…

Nipples, a subject often surrounded by a mix of curiosity, taboo, and fascination, are actually marvelous aspects of the human body. They serve not only a crucial role in reproduction and feeding our youngest, but are also a source of pleasure and aesthetics. In this informal and comprehensive article, we dive into the world of nipples, exploring their diversity, functionality, and some surprising facts you might not know yet. From erogenous potential to Guinness World Records, prepare for a journey through the intriguing and sometimes unexpected aspects of nipples. 1. A source of pleasure for everyone Did you know that…

A first date can be nerve-wracking. But don’t worry! With these conversation topics, your date will be a breeze. Let’s take a look at what you can say to spark that connection! 10. Dream Vacation “Imagine you could go anywhere, where would that be?” Ask about their dream destination and watch their eyes light up. Whether it’s a bustling Tokyo or a serene beach in Bali, you’ll immediately learn what kind of adventurer sits across from you! 9. Food, Food, and More Food! Who doesn’t love food? Ask what they would order if they could choose anything. Maybe you’ll discover…

It’s always a challenge to predict the future. Sometimes predictions by experts can be so far from reality that they become ironic. “Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons.” (Source: Popular Mechanics) This prediction from Popular Mechanics now seems ridiculous, considering the lightweight and portable devices we have today. The idea that a computer, which now easily fits in our pocket, could ever be so heavy shows how fast technological progress can occur. “Rock n’ Roll? It will be gone by June.” (Source: Variety Magazine) Variety Magazine was clearly wrong when they thought that rock ‘n’…

In this top 10, we dive into the world of pink animals, discovering how and why this color occurs in nature. From birds to fish and from mammals to insects, the natural world is full of surprises. Let’s take a look at some of the most remarkable pink animals. 1. Pink River Dolphin The pink river dolphin, also known as the boto, is one of the few freshwater dolphins in the world. These striking animals live in the rivers of the Amazon Basin in South America. Their pink color can vary from a subtle shade to a vibrant, almost fluorescent…

The world is rich in diverse culinary traditions, and some cuisines are known for their love of sharp, spicy flavors. In this article, we explore the top 10 countries where the dishes test your taste buds with their intensity. From the burning spices of India to the hot peppers of Mexico, these countries offer a culinary journey that is not for the faint-hearted. Here is a look at the first five countries from this list, known for their sharpest dishes. 1. India India, with its rich diversity of cultures and cuisines, tops the list. Indian dishes are famous for their…

Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, but how much do we actually know about this yellow delicacy? In this article, we share 10 fun facts about bananas that may surprise you! Bananas are Actually Berries Although we often consider them a fruit, bananas are botanically berries. In the botanical world, berries are defined as fruits that come from flowering plants with multiple ovaries and contain their seeds internally. The small black dots in the well-known Cavendish banana will not produce a plant if you plant them. However, wild banana species do contain larger seeds in…

Tickling can be a source of pleasure and laughter, but for some, it is pure torture. Here are the top 10 most ticklish spots on your body. Get ready for some giggles! 1. Feet For many, the feet are the ultimate tickle zone. Whether it’s a light touch or a full foot massage, reactions can range from a slight chuckle to uncontrollable laughter. But beware, some people can be so ticklish that they may develop a ninja-like reflex to escape! 2. Armpits The armpits are a classic tickling spot. It’s the perfect trap for an unexpected tickle attack. But be…

Embark on a fascinating journey into the world of the enigmatic dodo bird, a creature that has captivated our imaginations and stirred curiosity for centuries. Once roaming the forests of Mauritius, the dodo has become a symbol of extinction and mystery. Despite its disappearance over 300 years ago, the dodo continues to intrigue scientists, historians, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. In this article, we delve into 10 remarkable facts about this extraordinary bird, shedding light on its life, characteristics, and the lessons its story holds for us. Join us as we uncover the truths and debunk the myths surrounding the dodo,…

Tea is a universal beverage with a rich history, cultural significance, and considerable health benefits. It holds a special place in the daily routines of people all over the world. These are the ten countries where tea is consumed the most. 10. Egypt In Egypt, tea is a daily staple and a symbol of hospitality. The Egyptian “shai” is a strong black tea, often sweetened with cane sugar and sometimes flavored with fresh mint leaves. It is consumed throughout the day, at home, in cafes, or at social events, with an annual consumption of 1.01 kg per person. 9. Chile…

Have you even been absolutely convinced of something only to find out that you are wrong? And then, just as you become accustomed to your own fallibility, something happens to make you question everything: someone else has the same erroneous views that you do? Is this proof that conspiracies about world-wide cabals controlling our minds are true? Are there alternate realities that sometimes leak through to this one? Or could it simply be a glitch in the way our memories work? Or something even more basic like an erroneous statement ‘growing legs’, for example a faulty news report being believed,…

For us Dutch, blue eyes are very common; we see them around us every day. We are used to the fact that eye colors in the Netherlands range from blue and green to brown. Worldwide, blue eyes are actually quite special, with only about 8-10% of the population having blue eyes. Blue eyes are a relatively recent development in human genetics. Scientists believe that everyone who lived before the last ice age had brown eyes. The blue eye color emerged about 10,000 years ago as a result of genetic mutations and then spread through parts of Europe. As for the…

Marilyn Monroe was one of the most iconic and quoted women of the 20th century. Her quotes remain a source of inspiration and provide insight into a complex woman who was more than her public persona. Here are some of her famous quotes translated into Dutch. “I am selfish, impatient, and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.” This quote emphasizes acceptance and self-awareness. It says a lot about Marilyn’s…

Whether a dog-lover or a cat-lover, most people believe that their preferred pet is superior than the other. There are, however, many scientific reasons why dogs are better than cats. 10. Dogs are smarter Although cats have more neurons in their brains than dogs, dogs are far more adept at performing tasks and obeying commands. A border collie named Rico is believed to understand over 200 words and most dog-owners will be more than aware that their canine friends can not only recognise various words and commands, but even follow hand gestures to find hidden treats. Recent studies have shown…

When it comes to the mother-infant relationship, human beings have shown the greatest attachment for time immemorial. During early stages of growth which is usually between ages zero up to 2 years, this relationship has been seen to be stronger since the infants are more dependent on their moms. It’s from the fact that after birth, most infants usually have fewer survival instincts and have to depend on their moms for survival. However, less attention has been given to animals, although after deep research on their ways of life, it has been discovered that animals too have much greater maternal…

Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin weren’t the only people flying to the moon for the first time. But does anybody now the name of the third astronaut?! Everybody knows Oskar Schindler, but have you ever heard of Chiune Sugihara or Eugene Lazowski, these men also saved thousand of jews in WO II. Probably not. Some people just deserve to be more famous, a top 10: 10. Lloyd Henry Bumstead: award winning art director https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcOq501IsG0 Perhaps unfairly, we tend to idolise the faces that we see on the silver screen, instead of thinking about the skill, experience and technical expertise that…

The unicorn is a legendary creature that has been described since antiquity as a beast with a single large, pointed, spiraling horn projecting from its forehead. The unicorn was depicted in ancient seals of the Indus Valley Civilization and was mentioned by the ancient Greeks in accounts of natural history by various writers, including Ctesias, Strabo, Pliny the Younger, and Aelian. Here are 10 weird facts about this magical animal. 10. The Elasmotherium, an extinct genus of rhinoceros, is thought to be the origin of unicorn myths and legends Rashevsky, under supervision of A.F. Brant 9. When Marco Polo passed…

Kylie Minogue, hailing from Melbourne in Australia, has released 69 singles and holds the distinction of being the most successful Australian musician in terms of record sales. 10. Locomotion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTcHbEdYvOc Locomotion, Kylie Minogue’s debut single, was released in 1987 and shot to the number one position in the Australian charts while reaching number eight in the New Zealand charts. The success of this rendition of the song, written in the early 1960s by American lyricists Gerry Goffin and Carol King, propelled Kylie onto the world stage and opened doors to a successful musical career. 9. Got to Be Certain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYV_jelnZdE…

Fashion designers are renowned for their ability to reinvent and rejuvenate trends all around the globe. Some do it so effectively that they become stars in their own right, having forever shaped the industry through their distinctive designs. 10. Ralph Lauren https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTqYMoz_inU&t=6s American fashion designer Ralph Lauren began his career in 1967 after securing the backing of Manhattan clothing manufacturer Norman Hilton. He first opened a necktie store, selling his own designs under the ‘Polo’ label, before establishing his own boutique 4 years later. After winning a COTY Award for his menswear line, Lauren moved into womenswear with a line…

When most people think of famous Adventurers and Explorers they think of Marco Polo, James Cook or maybe Columbus, all men. But definitely not every adventurer is a men, there are also many women that explored the world, even in a time when it was much harder for women to be adventurous. 10 Jeanne Barret: 27th July 1740 to 5th August 1807 Jeanne Barret had an interesting life, to say the least. She was born to poor farming parents, and her father, at least, is thought to have been illiterate. Some historians believe that Jeanne was educated by her mother…

Amy Winehouse, the talented but troubled British singer, released only two full-length studio albums during her brief, brilliant career. Both Frank and Back to Black were acclaimed by critics and public alike, the latter becoming the second-best selling album of the 21st century in the U.K. After her death in July 2011 a compilation album – Lioness: Hidden Treasures – was released, giving the world a glimpse of what might have been. 10. Valerie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bixuI_GV5I0 Originally released by the English indie rock band The Zutons in 2006, this version was produced by Mark Ronson and featured on Version, an album…

With dozens of safaris dotted throughout Africa, there’s enough variety to keep the keenest zoologists occupied. Whether on the lookout for a shaggy mane or a horned mammal, there is plenty to see and do in these top safari destinations which house some of the most impressive variety of species in the entire world. 10. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe. It is known for its abundance of giraffes, elephants and lions as well as 105 other mammal species. Hwange also has one of the largest populations of…

On September 22, 1994, Jennifer Aniston made her first on screen appearance as Rachel Green on the wildly successful 90s sitcom Friends. Her character, a former rich-girl-turned-runaway-bride, instantly captured the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere and Aniston became a role model for women all over the world. In between seasons of Friends, Aniston spent a lot of time working in Hollywood where she starred in a number of films, mostly romantic comedies with some of the finest actors in Hollywood. After leaving Friends in 2004, Aniston switched to Hollywood filmmaking full time. Since making the switch, she’s starred in…

The annals of history have seen their fair share of horrendous deaths. Some of following unlucky folks were victims of torture and execution, while others died by their own hand. 10. Truls Hellevik foto: Jetset / wikcommons The Byford Dolphin is a semi-submersible drilling rig which is infamous for having many serious accidents. In 1983, four divers were in the decompression chamber when it explosively decompressed from a pressure of nine atmospheres to just one. Truls Hellevik had his organs, spine and limbs ejected at a fraction of a second. At the same time, his remains were thrust through the…