{"title":"Digital Magazine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom the lush Hanging Gardens of Babylon to the fiery forges of Asgard, Ancient Origins Magazine scours the planet to reveal the history of the ancient world. Discover ancient technologies, lost civilizations, amazing archaeology, and strange mysteries that still puzzle us today. Experience the power and people, the weapons and wisdom of our ancient past. With boundary-breaking research, nothing is left out! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeaturing: Expeditions and journeys for adventure-lovers. News in history and archaeology. Oddities and bizarre events in time. Unforgettable heroes and infamous villains. Experts, historians, authors, and archaeologists uncover the secrets of the past. Mysterious artifacts and enigmatic sites. Tantalizing ancient recipes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe magazine is currently digital-only. Enjoy instant access to Ancient Origins Digital Magazine on your computer, device, smartphone anytime, and on the go.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYOU DECIDE which issue you'd like to read right now! No waiting.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTo subscribe for all upcoming issues and get instant access to all back issues at one low price,\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/members.ancient-origins.net\/magazines\" title=\"Premium Package Subscriptions\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #00aaff;\"\u003e check out our subscription packages.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"digital-ao-magazine-september-2018","title":"AO Magazine - September 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn creating this very first issue of Ancient Origins Magazine, we scoured the planet to showcase unique histories, inspiring stories, and incredible experiences. We constantly seek to break down boundaries into research, exploring all aspects of history. Our vision is to collect stories from all over the world to deliver inspiration and challenge you to keep asking the questions, ‘how?’, ‘why?’ and ‘why not?’ \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssues will be chock-full of interviews and news from experts in the field, articles on intriguing finds and theories, thought-provoking reviews and notable authors, tasty and surprising ancient recipes, ancient puzzles and mysteries, and expeditions and journeys for the adventure-lovers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis magazine has come about as a result of requests from you, our readers, and the passions of our dedicated team. So, welcome to the first edition of Ancient Origins Magazine! \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158056972479,"sku":"MAG00001","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/01-cover_ancient-origins_nr1_2018.jpg?v=1625564422"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-october-2018","title":"AO Magazine - October 2018","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGiven the insatiable appetite for all-things ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, it is somewhat of a surprise that so little is known or shared about a mysterious civilization that emerged in the Indus Valley at least 5,000 years ago in what is now Pakistan and India. With impeccably-planned cities such as Mohenjo Daro and Harappa, advanced hydraulic engineering, precise measuring systems, impressive metallurgy, and an intriguing writing that remains undeciphered, the Indus Valley civilization was every bit as impressive as their ancient Egyptian counterpart. Yet, without being able to read the records they left behind, much about this ancient civilization remains a giant mystery. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we investigate one of the greatest puzzles to emerge out of the Mohenjo Daro excavations: the shocking case of more than 40 skeletons found scattered in the streets of the ancient city. What caused such seemingly instant mass death? Was it a gruesome massacre? A powerful ancient weapon? It turns out the truth is something else altogether! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnd while we are throwing a spotlight on the Indus Valley civilization, we also turn to a country and culture shaped by its people – India. From marvellous megaliths to mystical mudras, and even a plant cultivated in India thousands of years ago that most of us still have on hand in our own kitchens. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReaders who hear the call of the Norsemen in their hearts will enjoy the account of the ‘mythical’ Viking sunstone that turned out to be very real. Speaking of hearing – have you heard of the perplexing archaeoacoustics in Malta’s Hypogeum? And you’re not alone if you’ve ever had difficulty with a salesman; you’ll appreciate the oldest known customer service complaint ever found.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158057922751,"sku":"MAG00002","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineOct2018.jpg?v=1625564447"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-december-2018","title":"AO Magazine - December 2018","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChristmas is just around the corner, so we couldn’t let December go by without shining a spotlight on the ancient origins of an occasion celebrated by an estimated two billion people every year.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChristmas preserves our roots as we live out the traditions our forebears started so long ago – gift-giving and feasts from the Romans; wreaths and evergreen trees from the pagans; cooked turkey from Native Americans; Santa Claus from an ancient Greek saint; and the Yule log from Old Norse traditions. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom the Celts to the Christians and the Vikings to the Victorians, they have all added traditions to the rich tapestry of the holiday we call Christmas. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnd while we are talking about the endurance of old customs, we also turn to a particular luxury item beloved by many – chocolate. A rich concoction created in South America over 3,000 years ago, and once seen as a gift from the gods, chocolate has made its way from the hands of Aztec nobles to the pockets of children across the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlong with beliefs and ritual, ancient wisdom has been passed down through the ages to help make the wintertime a little more bearable. We’ve included some easy-to-do traditional remedies that have been used since time immemorial to help you beat those winter bugs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eYou will also find a feature on a very unique Australian town, where 80 percent of residents live underground. Plus, we examine the bizarre and unexplained phenomenon of raining objects, from frogs to fish, snakes, rocks, and even money!\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNo matter how you observe or relive ancient traditions, we hope you will enjoy our last issue for 2018 and join us in celebrating the season of new beginnings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158058381503,"sku":"MAG00004","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineDec2018l.jpg?v=1625564437"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-january-2019","title":"AO Magazine - January 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOver the last 20,000 years, North America has undergone an immense transformation, and, like most societies, many aspects of its history are controversial, divisive, and indeed tragic. But in our January issue, which throws a spotlight on North America, we examine some of its special achievements. We look at the accomplishments of the Hopewell Culture, which swept over a vast territory of the continent over 2,000 years ago, constructing great burial mounds and elaborate earthworks encoded with celestial alignments. We also feature the living images of the Hopewell people, and their predecessors the Adena, brought to life in vivid recreations by the sensational artist Marcia K Moore. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTurning to the Colonial era, we travel along an ancient road of the 1600s – the King’s Highway. Stretching more than 1300 miles across 10 states, it is the oldest road still in continuous use in the United States, yet it is the events that took place along this road that also give it a special place in American history. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe past hasn’t shared all its secrets though. We revisit an unsolved mystery and wonder what really happened to the early English settlers of Roanoke Island who vanished completely, leaving behind a coded message? What is the truth behind more than 1000 skeletons of giant stature found across the continent? And who really won the race to reach the New World first?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn our January issue, we cover a range of fascinating subjects from Medieval belief in fairies to Ancient Egyptian fashion. But this issue also holds a very personal connection to me. In ‘Mungalla: An Australian Story’, we hear of an early pioneer in Australia’s history who stood up to his peers and fought for the rights and safety of the Aboriginal people who were being decimated by Europeans at the time. That man is my great, great grandfather and it is only recently that his amazing story has become known to me. In the month that Australians celebrate their National day, what better story to tell than one in which indigenous and non-indigenous people lived and worked alongside each other in harmony. For me, it offers a positive vision for Australia’s future rather than simply a focus on its turbulent past.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158059135167,"sku":"MAG00005","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineJan2019.jpg?v=1625564444"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-november-2018","title":"AO Magazine - November 2018","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOur ability to change perspectives and accept new interpretations of past events is what makes history vital and meaningful. Just when a consensus is reached about how our ancestors once lived and what knowledge they possessed, another discovery occurs that upends it all. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA key example of this was the discovery of Göbekli Tepe, now recognized as one of the most important archaeological and architectural discoveries of the 21st century. Massive carved stones, some 11,500-years-old, were crafted and arranged to precisely align with astronomical phenomena by prehistoric people who had not yet invented the wheel, let alone agriculture. They were hunter-gatherers, yet they had constructed the first, largest, and most complex religious sanctuary the world had ever seen. In this issue, we unravel the secrets of Göbekli Tepe. Through an exclusive interview with Dr Robert Schoch, we learn about the sophisticated science behind its construction and how its builders sought to cope with cataclysmic disasters, while Freddy Silva throws a spotlight on the site’s astronomical alignments. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the spirit of shaking up old ideas and seeking new perspectives, we also turn to Thanksgiving, an annual celebration in November that is considered a vital part of American history and identity. We share the traditional story that is taught across schools, from podiums, and around dinner tables, but we also challenge this familiar narrative by relaying the perspective of the Wampanoag native people who encountered the newly arrived colonists all those generations ago, presenting a very different outlook on this famous historic holiday!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eElsewhere, you’ll find features on the samurai warriors of Feudal Japan, and one of their most shocking practices – ritual self-disembowelment.  We also take you back to ancient Greece, where you’ll hear about one of the most bizarre deaths in history – it involves an eagle, a tortoise, and one very unfortunate chap with a bald head! And don’t miss our mouth-watering Medieval recipe – cinnamon chicken soup. \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we hope to spur some new perspectives in our readers, as well as ignite excitement about our ever-changing understanding of our past. Happy reading! \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158059167935,"sku":"MAG00003","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineNov2018_1.jpg?v=1625564447"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-february-2019","title":"AO Magazine - February 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThey say war never changes. War is a recurring and omnipresent human phenomenon that has existed throughout history. In the ancient world, warfare was more than fighting itself.  It was an integral part of daily life that encompassed political, economic, and cultural spheres. And then, there was the religious realm, where kings ruled by divine mandate and fortunes in battle were determined by heavenly forces and powerful war gods (ten of whom you’ll meet in this issue).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAncient Warfare is often glorified in the mythologies and legends of these war gods and goddesses, as well as in tales of nobility, sacrifice, bravery, and conquests by powerful generals and warriors. But we contrast this view with a look at the brutality and horrors that are ubiquitous to war, told here through the story of Becerrillo, an attack dog of the Spanish conquistadors that left trails of blood and bodies in his wake. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWarfare has left its imprint in the pierced armor and shattered remains of millions of warriors and civilians around the world, each carrying their own story. Our featured contributor, James McBride, a forensic anthropologist, recreates some of their stories through art, and shares how both ancient and modern soldiers have used therapeutic art practices to cope with the trauma of war.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWinston Churchill once famously said: “History is written by the victors”, and this applies most particularly to war. Featured author David G. Jones, a university lecturer and veteran of the Canadian Army, challenges the accepted view of Sun Tzu’s famous manual ‘The Art of War’, and claims that rather than being a ruthless tyrant, the First Emperor of China may have been one of the greatest peace-makers in history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnd was there ever really a Trojan War? Researcher Petros Koutoupis brings into question the traditional account of the Trojan War and the supposed discovery of Troy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eToday, wars may be fought from 30,000 feet up with precision GPS-guided bombs, combat drones, and stealth aircraft, but the art of forging ancient weapons has not yet died. Traditional Master Swordsmith Rob Miller tells us why he keeps this lost art alive in the modern day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOn a lighter note, we highlight a wonderful project by Cambridge University linguistics specialist, Dr Martin Worthington, who is reviving the ancient Babylonian language 2,000 years after falling out of use! We examine the odd phenomenon of mass hysteria which shows us that while social and political contexts—and even war—have changed over the centuries, human psychology has, for better or worse, largely remained the same.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158059692223,"sku":"MAG00006","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AncientOriginsMagazineFeb2019.jpg?v=1625564450"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-2019","title":"AO Magazine - March 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBlanketed across the country of Ireland and reaching as far as the rugged and windswept islands off its coast, are tens of thousands of sites that tell a story about its ancient past. Long-forgotten tombs, majestic mounds, megaliths, and imposing castles stand as they have for hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of years. Their history is interwoven within a rich tapestry of folk tales, legends, and mythology, which bring to life the beliefs, culture, and knowledge of the ancient people that constructed them all those years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we delve into an amazing astronomical event that takes place each year - the March Equinox - and how it plays out at Loughcrew Cairns, while Anthony Murphy gives you an insider perspective on his discovery of ‘Dronehenge’, a previously unknown megalithic monument discovered near one of Ireland’s most iconic sites – Newgrange.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eInside this issue you’ll also find out the true story of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. You’d never guess that a saint had a life that was even more amazing than some of the myths that are told about him. And then we examine the life story of another interesting character from Ireland’s history. But she was no saint! The tales of the swashbuckling pirate queen Grace O’Malley will remind you that there’s two sides to every story.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDavid Halpin has joined us in this issue to examine Ireland’s mysterious origin story, a legendary tale which includes Egyptian royalty and godlike fairies. And there are many times that history mixes with mystery both in Ireland and abroad, so check out five of the biggest mysteries that face historians examining what went on in ancient Ireland. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Baghdad Battery is another source of fascination and confusion for many scholars. Could the 2,000-year-old artifact be the world’s first a battery? Dr. Robert Volterri decided to find out!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFinally, we explore the history and possible future of Japan’s Aokigahara forest, a site once held as sacred but now notorious as one of the most popular places in the world to commit suicide. But many people are not resigned to this being the forest’s fate and there are strong hopes and actions to try to turn the dark story around.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158059921599,"sku":"MAG00007","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AncientOriginsMagazineMarch19-300.jpg?v=1625564454"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-may-2019","title":"AO Magazine - May 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAncient natural disasters including meteor strikes, tsunamis, volcanos, and floods had a devastating effect on the fragile psychological coping mechanisms of our forebearers. Having little external autonomy over such overwhelming cataclysmic events, they projected omnipotent power onto their gods, and believed natural disasters were punishment for personal wrongdoings or worse, the whims of peeved gods. In order not to succumb to debilitating, frantic fear, they developed rituals and sacrifices designed to appease those same gods to avert disasters and to gain some perceived sense of control. The pallet of naturally occurring phenomena was often colored with animated superhuman attributes in order to make sense of an unpredictable and dangerous world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we look at ten deadly volcanos – Vesuvius, Santorini, Hekla, Fuji, Krakatoa and more – which must have seemed like angry gods spewing their wrath, leaving destruction in their wake and changing the landscape forever.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSometimes it is not only the world that changes, but our deepest faith and beliefs. Could it be that the event describing the conversion of Paul the Apostle, was, in fact, an exploding meteor? The implication would be that a cosmic phenomenon nudged Christianity in its infancy, gaining momentum over 2,000 years to become a major world religion and changing the course of history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn yet another ancient disaster, author David Hatcher Childress proposes that Easter Island, the Lost Land of Hiva, was struck by a terrifying tidal wave that buried the famous\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emoai\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003estatues in many layers of mud and muck, so that all we see now are their iconic heads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe also interview associate professor Martin Sweatman, who proposes a well-grounded theory that major catastrophes, such as ancient comet impacts were recorded by ancient man, and hidden in plain sight, to act as a warning to later generations. But what of our own future? Is the Earth going to reach its ‘sell-by date’ at around 3000 AD? Evidence suggests we should at least be prepared for something big!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHumans have always recorded and feared an apocalypse or ‘end of times’ when the gods would wipe out life on earth in one fell swoop.  Modern ‘preppers’ and Doomsday preachers might be surprised to learn that the world almost did come to an end in 536 AD!  It was a climatic calamity of epic proportions: “The sun became dark and its darkness lasted for 18 months”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt seems that when Mother Nature loses her cool the effects are disastrous, but May is the month that we celebrate Mother’s Day, and Martini Fisher looks at the ancient concept of the Mother goddess as an embodiment of both creation and destruction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAs a nice diversion from disaster and catastrophe, we take a fascinating look at our ancient cousins, the Neanderthals. Evolutionary biologist Clive Finlayson, Director of Excavations at Neanderthal sites in Gibraltar, breaks down decades of misperceptions about these long extinct hominids. He challenges the popular perception that so-called primitive Neanderthals were outsmarted in the evolutionary race by Modern Humans, and controversially claims they were thinking, speaking people just like you and me.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158059954367,"sku":"MAG00009","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineMay2019-300.jpg?v=1625564460"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-july-2019","title":"AO Magazine - July 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMost of us look back in horror at the practices of ancient healers – boring holes in the skull to treat head injuries, anesthetic-free amputations, and mercury-laden contraceptive concoctions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDespite the lack of technology available in the past, it is also tempting to scoff at some of the commonly-held beliefs about everyday maladies: cavities caused by tooth worms, seizures induced by demonic possession, and female ‘hysteria’ the result of a ‘wandering womb’ that could glide freely about the body, causing havoc.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut for all its inaccuracies, ancient medical practices were in many cases innovative and practical, and in other cases, simply astounding.  We know, for example, that many cases of trepanation – the earliest form of brain surgery, dating back 10,000 years – were actually successful!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we explore the intuitive medicine of the Native American tradition, as well as the advanced medical practices of the Stonehenge builders. We delve into ancient beliefs in Mesopotamia concerning the origins of disease, and we hear from a master brewer about the long tradition of brewing beer infused with healing herbs. We also examine some of the ways ancient people dealt with devastating war injuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut it’s not all blood, gore, and disease. Among the quirkier accounts of medical practices, we have bathing in donkey milk, consuming bottles of snake oil, and smelling (and even tasting!) urine. And surprisingly, some of it really worked!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlso in this edition, we look at another surprising accomplishment of the past – the Maya construction of the Bridge to Yaxchilan, the longest bridge of the ancient world.  And the award-winning structural engineer behind its discovery tells us exactly how they did it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ancient Origins Magazine wouldn’t be complete without a bit of the weird and unknown, and with that in mind, we introduce you to bestiaries, the books of beasts that graced medieval shelves. We also present the Tamam Shud Enigma, a cold case with ancient connections that has never been solved – can you crack the code?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158060544191,"sku":"MAG00011","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AO-Magazine-July-19---300_1.jpg?v=1625564462"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-august-2019","title":"AO Magazine - August 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEvery corner of the Earth has now been mapped, photographed, measured and scanned and— courtesy of Google—we can explore every inch of it, from the streets of Rome to the jungles of Guatemala. But beneath our feet is a world that remains largely unseen. Google’s cameras have yet to reach the subterranean world – the endless tunnels, caves, caverns, and even cities! Perhaps that’s what makes ‘the underworld’ so captivating.  It’s a little slice of our planet that remains hidden, silent, and mysterious.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCaves have always held an attraction for humans. They have witnessed our evolution, serving as shelters, homes, refuges, and strongholds. But beyond physical need, those dark and silent spaces have served as a gateway to the ‘otherworld’. In ancient legend and mythology, they are places where the dead cross to the afterlife, and where gods and beasts dwell. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we visit the place where humankind first left their mark – Sterkfontein caves in South Africa – where over two million years ago, individuals from five species of pre-humans ventured underground, but never escaped alive. We dig into the world beneath Mexico’s City of the Gods, the vast labyrinth of caves and tunnels that extend below the great site of Teotihuacan. We examine the land of subterranean cities – Cappadocia, in Turkey – where for thousands of years, people carved out their lives; tombs, temples, and towns deep below the surface. And we delve into one of the most enigmatic cave systems in the Americas – Cueva de Los Tayos in Ecuador – with a first-hand account of Ancient Origins’ own expedition into this intriguing and, at times, dangerous network of caves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe escort you through the deepest realms, journeying to the underworld, populated by gods, beasts, and characters of ancient legend; from guardians of hell in Greek, Norse, Hindu and Chinese mythology, to gods of justice, and demons of death. From the deepest chasms, we soar to the highest mountains, turning to Tibet where a very unique form of funerary rite takes place – sky burial. In these high-altitude ceremonies, human corpses are offered to vultures as a final, honorable service to nature.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr Eran Elhaik, geneticist and expert on paleogenomics, has made world history by developing the first DNA test to compare modern-day people’s DNA to that of ancient people who lived thousands of years ago. Will you soon discover that you are related to a Roman gladiator…or a famous Egyptian Pharaoh? Speaking of fame, the infamous Elizabeth Bathory was a 16th-century countess recorded as one of the most prolific serial killers in history. But was she instead the victim of political betrayal?You be the judge!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158060576959,"sku":"MAG00012","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagAug19-300_1.jpg?v=1625564463"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-june-2019","title":"AO Magazine - June 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt is said that history is written by the victors, but what if it were written only by the victims? Such is the case with our knowledge of the Vikings. Their brutal savagery, their raiding and terrorizing, and their relentless, bloodthirsty attacks were recorded almost exclusively by their victims – the understandably terrified monks whose monasteries they destroyed and looted. But this must give us cause to question whether we really have the whole picture. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere is no doubt that for coastal settlements in medieval Europe, the Vikings meant bad news. But do they really deserve their bad boy reputation, or did they just suffer from poor public relations?  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWere the Vikings really any more violent than other warriors of the period? During the same period, Christian rulers, like Charlemagne, were decapitating non-converters in their thousands, and Arab armies were raiding, invading, and plundering their way across Asia Minor. Violence hardly made the Vikings unique in the 9th and 10th centuries!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we aim to bring together a more complete picture of the Vikings, from their invasions to their inventions, and from terror to technology. We unravel their complex beliefs about magic and the afterlife and delve into their culture, society, and even their accomplishments—presenting a picture of the Vikings that is more than beards, beer, and berserk barbarians. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe go deep with Maritime Archaeologist Massimiliano as he and his research team rescue a Viking-style shipwreck that’s nearly 1,000 years old, using the very latest scanning technology to preserve the one-of-a-kind treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlso in this edition, we delve even more into that which is hidden – the occult. Well-known horror writer HP Lovecraft penned the Necronomicon – or did he? How can a dangerous grimoire exist and yet not exist? Dr. Roberto Volterri exposes the true origin of the infamous and controversial tome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAncient secrets are not only for initiates. Time-honored knowledge is passed down from fathers to their children, as it has been done since time immemorial. For Father’s Day, we are reminded of fatherly advice given 4,600 years ago, from a Sumerian King to his son, that is still applicable today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnd more burning questions are answered in the strange and alarming tale of Spontaneous Human Combustion!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158060609727,"sku":"MAG00010","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AncientOriginsMagazineJune2019-300_1.jpg?v=1625564463"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-april-2019-homeao-magazine-april-2019","title":"AO Magazine - April 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome of us are self-confessed island lovers, hooked on the idyllic vision of island living, while others fear the dark truths that may lie beneath the deceiving quaintness of island settings. But whatever our feeling, human beings, and even our ancient hominin ancestors, have been obsessed by islands and their mysterious, haunting charm since our time began.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHundreds of thousands of islands populate our world and countless more remain in the realm of legend and folklore. Most of the world’s islands are well-explored, their secrets plundered long ago, but a few remain mysterious, like those that appear to drift aimlessly across our oceans – is there any truth behind the floating islands of ancient legend? Historian of cartography Chet Van Duzer takes you on a journey to find the answer, from the mythical paradise islands of Chinese philosophical texts to the floating islands of Homer’s\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOdyssey\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we dive into the puzzles of island life: mind-blowing seafaring abilities and ancient navigation. Like any sea tale worth its salt, we encounter the bizarre and downright dangerous behavior of a pack of mutineers stranded on a remote island in the Pacific. And then there is the world-famous Easter Island that is yet to give up its secrets. Author and\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHistory Channel\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecelebrity David Hatcher Childress raises the unanswered questions, such as how the islanders crafted and moved the gigantic\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emoai\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estatues that dot the island, or why a small, remote population invented their own complex written language that is yet to be deciphered!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFinally, we examine one of the biggest enigmas in paleoanthropology: the mysterious hobbit species of Flores island; a tiny, 3-foot-tall human ancestor whose remains are found nowhere else in the world but an island of Indonesia—and experts still can’t agree on where they came from, why they were so small, and what led to their final demise just 50,000 years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlong this journey we make some surprising discoveries; the first being that the food that fuelled the Vikings – gruel - can actually be pretty tasty as well as filling. We also examine a different perspective of Easter; a resurrection and rebirth celebration with pagan roots that has adapted and transformed over the ages. Finally, we explore the Old Testament story of Samson’s “Jawbone Massacre”, which archaeologist John McHugh reveals is full of hidden messages and Mesopotamian occult divination.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158060806335,"sku":"MAG00008","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AncientOriginsMagazineApril2019-300.jpg?v=1625564470"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-december-2019","title":"AO Magazine - December 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOver the centuries, historians have told us in detail about the rise and fall of civilizations, the leaders and rulers of our world, dramatic battles and magnificent monuments, but the history of children and childhood has been strangely absent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe invisibility of children in history and archaeology is sometimes attributed to the scarcity of historical records relating to children, and artifacts that once belonged to them. Perhaps too has been the view that children are somewhat peripheral to the most important historical subjects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the last few decades, however, an understanding of childhood through the ages has begun to emerge, and researchers have started to shine a spotlight on this vital aspect of human history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe archaeological and historical record provides opportunity for the exploration of numerous aspects of childhood – an ancient, ceramic baby bottle, a child-size weapon, tiny fossilized footprints, child ‘doodles’ in medieval manuscripts, nursery rhymes, and mythological tales – they all have stories to tell about the children of our past, and in this issue we examine these records and more, offering a glimpse into what life was really like for children throughout history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLike children traversing a river by leaping from raised stone to stone, we hop, skip, and jump across fascinating topics.  We speak with Daniel Farkas, the CEO of Drops, a language learning app that strives to preserve Ainu history by harnessing tech to teach their language before it disappears completely. Author Jonathan Perrin uncovers the connections between a heretic Egyptian Pharaoh and the most symbolic color in Judaism. And we examine the ancient origins of New Year’s resolutions, which may have been easier to adhere to in past – when giving up was akin to breaking your vows to a god.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe have found the children; they were there all along, hidden in plain sight. They were the tiny, resilient creators of history, eventually passing it down to us, the children of the future. In that way, it would seem that WE are the ‘heirs of history’, and we must pass it on as humans have done since our time began, striving to create a better world for the little ones that come after us.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158060839103,"sku":"MAG00016","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineDec2019-300_1.jpg?v=1625564469"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-september-2019","title":"AO Magazine - September 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn ancient times, the typical response to crime was revenge, and blood feuds between families, communities, and even nations could endure for centuries.  Nearly 5,000 years ago, King Hammurabi of Babylon made the first known steps in history towards establishing a code of laws that would reduce crime and put a stop to the endless blood feuds, and in those days, “an eye for an eye” was the way to go. It was felt the punishment for a crime should equal the severity of the crime itself – no more, no less.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn crime-ridden civilizations of the past, it was not just ancient people behaving badly, but the gods and demi-gods of legend who took the dark path too, and for angering them, the punishment was much more severe. Think eternal damnation and eons of pain and punishment!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSince then, humanity has attempted to grapple with crime and establish law and order, sometimes succeeding, and at other times failing miserably. But we must look on the bright side; nowadays women are no longer forced to wear metal mule masks for gossiping, men are not required to prove their ‘equipment’ works in divorce courts, thieves don’t get their noses sliced off before being sent to a city of noseless criminals, execution is no longer at the pointy end of a kangaroo bone, and a person’s guilt does not hinge on the way they chew their rice!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn humanity’s defense, in an unfair world, we’ve always tried to bring balance, and so we cannot forget some of our glorious achievements, such as the amazing wonders of the ancient world, and the marvelous golden ratio, or ‘divine proportion’ that helped make them so.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe dead get a final say, as we try to crack the ancient cold cases of bog body murders, where criminals and kings faced the same fate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDr. Roberto Volterri takes us through the strange experiments on the eyes of murdered corpses – will we one day be able to view the last, terrifying image – perhaps the killer itself – captured in a victim’s last moments? The implications are immense!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFinally, we visit with Richard Beeby \u0026amp; Sarah Smart who are helping bring back ancient burial traditions with their Mid-England Barrow; within which both the dead and the living can find peace.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158061002943,"sku":"MAG00013","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagSep2019-300_2.jpg?v=1625564476"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-november-2019","title":"AO Magazine - November 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor millennia, humans’ innate curiosity about their world has sparked a desire to explore, leading men and women to cross vast seas. In doing so, they faced untold dangers and hardships: merciless weather, unpredictable winds and waves, sea raiders and pirates, fragile vessels, rough conditions, and weeks or months in an immense, unknown expanse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we explore some of what has been Lost at Sea – pirate treasures, a ship’s crew, castaways, bottles with hidden messages, and even a mysterious set of floating blocks containing cryptic inscriptions which, for over a century, have been washing up on beaches across Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHistory is replete with stories of both heroics and tragedies of seafarers as they set off on quests to discover new lands, to trade, (or to raid) across unchartered waters.  Maritime historian Professor David Abulafia takes us on a journey through the human history of the ‘Boundless Sea’, as ancient people around the world set a course across the vast oceans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFaced with uncertainty and isolation on these treacherous voyages across the world, a rich mythology emerged. Legendary creatures lurked in the depths of dark waters, and a myriad of mermaids and sea maidens lured sailors into the sea, never to be seen again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSurviving maritime perils, we come ashore and explore some weird and wonderful accounts from history: the jaw-dropping Buddhist ritual of Self-Mummification, the lost Roman invention of unbreakable, flexible glass, and historical coincidences whose odds were so incredibly small that they appear almost miraculous!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158061101247,"sku":"MAG00015","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagNovember2019-300_1.jpg?v=1625564471"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-october-2019","title":"AO Magazine - October 2019","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eToday, the subject of ghosts is treated with fun and laughter – ghoulish costumes, stories told around campfires, and teenagers scaring themselves over a Ouija board.  But thousands of years ago, the supernatural realm was looked upon with both reverence and fear, and it played a central role in the cultural and religious practices of civilizations around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn keeping with our name, Ancient Origins, we delve into the very beginning of Halloween traditions – have you ever wondered why on October 31, people carve out pumpkins, wear costumes, or go door-to-door begging for sweets? The roots of these practices go back thousands of years to the Emerald Isle of Ireland and the ancient pagan festival of\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSamhain.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we dig deep, unearthing ancient beliefs about malevolent phantoms, corpse brides, and ancestor spirits. We dare to enter Loftus Hall, whose historic walls have seen invasion, capture, plague, famine, and personal tragedies, and which today has earned itself the title of ‘Ireland’s Most Haunted House’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe learn from Medieval England that there is more than one way to keep a dead body from coming back to life! It was a time when the very real belief in zombies led people to decapitate, burn, or otherwise mutilate corpses to prevent them from rising from their graves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAnd what’s Halloween without werewolves? Normally the domain of folklore and fairy tales, in this issue we hear what happened during a\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ereal\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003emodern-day werewolf hunt; the search for the Beast of Barmston Drain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut October is about more than just Halloween. In America, there is the national holiday of Columbus Day… but who really was Christopher Columbus? Guest expert and author Manuel Rosa sets the stage for a paradigm shift in how the world sees the real man behind the name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor many, October is a time for\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDiwali\u003c\/em\u003e, the Festival of Lights, a celebration of the spiritual victory of light over dark, and knowledge over ignorance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpeaking of light, we turn to a mysterious ancient Jewish sect that flourished in Palestine two thousand years ago. They are known as the Essenes, but they called themselves the Sons of Light. Guest author Jonathon Perrin exposes a strange connection to another ancient cult of light— that of the heretic pharaoh Akhenaten.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut light cannot exist without darkness, and so into the dark we venture with author Dr. Heather Lynn who takes us back 5,000 years to the Mesopotamians who left detailed records about demons that caused havoc and sickness, and high priests who worked to cure citizens of terrifying possessions. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158061985983,"sku":"MAG00014","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AncientOriginsMagazineOct2019-300_1.jpg?v=1625564476"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-january-2020","title":"AO Magazine - January 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAs the world looks on with shock and horror while Australia is ravaged by fires, we are reminded that at times our modern technology is simply not enough. From infrared sensors to satellites, drones, waterbombing planes, navy vessels, and thousands of firefighting tools at our disposal, nothing but Mother Nature, it seems, has the power to bring the fires to a close. So how did ancient people survive such disasters without technology to aid them? The truth is they\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edid\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ehave technology, albeit in a different form. For tens of thousands of years, the indigenous people of Australia applied advanced land management techniques to create fire-resilient landscapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eToday, sophisticated knowledge of the ancients is fading into obscurity as modern tech takes over, but in some parts of the world, it is being revived and used to solve present-day problems. Aztec floating gardens are being utilized in Mexico to achieve sustainable farming; in Iran, ancient Nashtifan windmills harness strong winds to grind grains, and in West Africa, one man even stopped a desert using centuries-old agricultural techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eModern tech is now emerging as a powerful tool in the discovery, investigation, and preservation of ancient sites. Nowhere has this become more apparent than in Peru, where drones have been used to map more than 600 archaeological sites across the country. We talk to the COO of a drone technology company that is playing a key role in that process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we consider the advanced age-old wisdom that was used to solve everyday problems, while highlighting some awesome ancient inventions that changed our world forever, like paper, printing, wheels, rockets, and even forks, as well as surprising ancient tech that is just down-right cool, like solar-powered laser beams, spider-woven cloaks, and chess-playing mechanical robots! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJust as we still grapple with machinery and computers today, our forebears, too, had to wrestle with uncooperative technology. For one particular medieval inventor, more than just his ego was hurt when his alchemically-enhanced flying machine failed to perform for the king! If only parachutes had been invented!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe twists and turns of such advances and setbacks are played out in the surprisingly ancient game of Snakes and Ladders. It may have been only a childhood game for you, but it is full of hidden messages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn viewing the long history of humanity, we come to realize that we have actually never been without technology. The ancients weren’t technophobes or Luddites; quite the contrary. They enthusiastically harnessed tech to make their lives better (or at least more interesting!)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158062837951,"sku":"MAG00017","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AoMagJan2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564477"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-february-2020","title":"AO Magazine - February 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHow do you keep a king humble when they rule one of the most powerful kingdoms of their era?  Once a year, you strip them of their regalia, force them to their knees and slap them hard in the face. At least, that was the tradition in Mesopotamia 5,000 years ago. Times have certainly changed, though many would say our modern-day politicians could do with a good dose of Mesopotamian humbling!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eToday, our leaders rarely maintain absolute, unquestioned power; prime ministers, presidents and even dictators are usually ‘moderated’ to some degree. This was not always the case in the ancient world – monarchs, pharaohs, warlords, conquerors and tyrants possessed immense power, whether for better or for worse.  A strong ruler, like Roman Emperor Augustus, could advance a nation and bring it to the forefront of culture and technology. An unrestrained emperor, like Nero or Ivan the Terrible, could cause the downfall of some of the greatest empires and civilizations of their time. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we shine a spotlight on some of the most famous and infamous rulers in history; we take an eye-opening look at outrageous emperors and mad monarchs; we examine rulers who were almost lost to history through the ‘punishment of non-existence’; and we question the long-accepted historical narrative – are Genghis Khan, Attila the Hun, and the First Emperor of China really deserving of their ‘bad boy’ image?  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom the strong and courageous to the brutal and ruthless, the world has been forever changed by powerful rulers throughout time.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063165631,"sku":"MAG00018","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineFeb2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564479"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-2020","title":"AO Magazine - March 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGold. It is history’s most coveted asset. It has inspired some of humanity’s greatest achievements, stirred passions for power and glory, commanded veneration, and provoked greed, slavery, and even murder. There is no other object that has played such a significant role in shaping human history as this illustrious metal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt began its journey as a symbol of omnipotence, equated with gods, purity and immortality, and it was buried with the dead – a certain entry into heaven. But make no mistake, gold’s most central role in history has been as a powerful and unbreakable symbol of wealth, status, and power. It has adorned the heads of kings and the necks of queens; it has shone from the tops of pyramids and it has been displayed to cheering crowds by victorious rulers in triumphal processions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we trace the colorful and dramatic story of gold through the ages, from mythological tales with morals, like the story of King Midas and his golden touch and the way Golden Apples reflect some of humanity’s biggest vices, to the ambitious quests of ancient alchemists and civilizations to acquire the pure, shining substance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe also reflect on the way gold transforms individual lives, as treasure hunters confront the highs and lows of striking it rich, and the impact gold hoards can have on a whole culture, such as the discovery of the magnificent South African Mapungubwe Gold Collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFinally, join us as we trek alongside explorers searching for the legendary lost city of El Dorado and get a special peek inside the labs of some of the best scientific minds looking for information on the supposed burial shroud of Jesus. Answers to these mysteries shine bright in the distance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063231167,"sku":"MAG00019","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagMarch2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564480"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-may-2020","title":"AO Magazine - May 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn faintly preserved Paleolithic rock etchings made by early humans, in the lines of millennia-old historical texts, and among intricate illustrations of medieval manuscripts, we find displays and descriptions of all manner of strange and astonishing people, both real and unreal.  The archaeological record also yields its fair share of ‘odd bodies’ – abnormally elongated skulls, gem-encrusted teeth, bizarre hybrid burials that combine animals and humans into grotesque beasts reminiscent of the mythological chimeras of ancient cultures, and surprising artificial body parts, including peg legs with horse hooves, and a warrior knight with a dagger hand!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we take you on a journey through the weird and wonderful world of odd bodies, odd burials, and odd people. Some are purely mythological, like the part-human, part-animal therianthropes and headless Blemmyes of medieval folklore; some are unexplained, like the stigmatics that bear the marks and wounds of Christ’s crucifixion; and others are rooted in reality. Yes, wearing dead man dentures and stretching one’s head into alien-like contortions were once in fashion!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhen it comes to strange bodies of the ancient world, there is perhaps none as perplexing as that of the Pharaoh Akhenaten, ruler of Egypt’s prosperous 18th Dynasty. Represented in numerous art pieces, Akhenaten’s slender neck, long face with sharp chin, narrow, almond-shaped eyes, spindly arms, rounded thighs and buttocks, and drooping belly, have long puzzled scholars – were his features genetic or aesthetic?  Guest contributor Jonathon Perrin offers a new explanation that may solve the riddle.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063689919,"sku":"MAG00021","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagMay2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564484"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-april-2020","title":"AO Magazine - April 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThink of the word ‘magic’, and it may conjure up images of wands, witches, or the wizarding world of Harry Potter. But in ancient times, magic wasn’t about an awesome display of fantastical feats. It was a way for people to make sense of and take control their lives. Magic, overlapping with notions of science, medicine, and religion, was a resource for navigating an uncertain world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt was everywhere – magic was a source of protection, a means for healing, a way to enact justice, a method for predicting and controlling future events, and a practice to farewell the dead and ensure their safe onwards journey. From birth until death, magic permeated all aspects of life and was called upon to accomplish things beyond the scope of human abilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this edition, we illuminate the ancient and medieval world of magic – mythological tales of the Tengu, mischievous tricksters of Japanese legend; Middle Eastern folktales of magical flying carpets, made famous by Walt Disney’s Aladdin; and magic rings of power that have made numerous appearances throughout history. Did an Ancient Egyptian ring protect archaeologist Howard Carter from the mummy’s curse, when many others were struck down?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut where does superstition end and reality begin? Did Merlin the Magician, the famous wizard of King Arthur’s court, really exist? And is there any truth to the bizarre accounts of Icelandic ‘necropants’ made from the skin of a dead man?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhilst some tales may be closer to fiction than fact, expert contributor Brian Hoggard reveals solid archaeological evidence for the mysterious and eerie rituals for magical house protection, including witch-bottles, concealed shoes, horse skulls, and even dried cats!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAn issue on magic wouldn’t be complete without a spotlight on John Dee, the Master of Magic himself, occult magician and astrologer of the English Royal Court, nor without delving into the dark and frightening world of grimoires and the dangers of dark magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut welcome to your ‘Defence Against the Dark Arts’ class; we’ve included some healing herbs and spells that the ancients relied upon to combat dark forces. Enjoy this magical issue!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063853759,"sku":"MAG00020","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagApr2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564486"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-june-2020","title":"AO Magazine - June 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson summed it all up in 1844, when he said: “We infer the spirit of the nation in great measure from the language, which is a sort of monument to which each individual in a course of many hundred years has contributed a stone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanguages are indeed a monument to our past. History is embedded in the content and structure of the 6,500+ languages spoken in the world today. Even when unwritten, language is the most powerful tool we have as humans to preserve our past knowledge, making possible both the living of a common history and the telling of it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe emergence of language, a powerful engine of intellect and creativity, was a defining moment in the evolution of modern humans. Yet, how, when and where it came into being is still unknown and has intrigued many great minds over the centuries. They are questions for which we may never hold the answers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe annals of history are also full of languages that have died out, cultures and societies that have come to an end, leaving no speakers at all.  As many as half of the world’s tongues are expected to be extinct by the end of this century, erasing living documents of history.  There is hope, however, as many nations are working hard to keep alive their critically endangered languages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we celebrate the wonder of words and explore the fascinating history of mankind’s most incredible creation. Language is, after all, at the very heart of human nature.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063919295,"sku":"MAG00022","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineJune2020-300_1.jpg?v=1625564487"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-jul-aug-2020","title":"AO Magazine - Jul\/Aug 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe ancient Maya created one of the most famous civilizations in the world. Even today, people are still astounded by their monumental city structures at sites like Uxmal, Tikal, and Chichén Itzá. We trek through these awe-inspiring Mesoamerican locations where elite priests and powerful royals managed their people and lands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Maya had advanced knowledge of math, astronomy, and agricultural techniques, and in this issue we look at how they applied their skills so cleverly to life. They also developed their own writing system and used the hieroglyphs to tell their factual and mythological stories on decorated temple walls, pottery, and monuments. This special July-August issue reveals some of the rich religious beliefs held by the ancient Maya to explain how humanity arrived here and what happens in the Underworld when our days are done.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis issue provides insight on some of the darker ancient Maya traditions, such as bloodletting and human sacrifice. Thankfully, those practices have been cast aside by later generations, but other, more peaceful actions, such as creating foamy chocolate drinks and caring for stingless bees, are still cherished by their descendants today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt seems the ancient Maya people had everything going for them…but then their civilization suddenly stopped. They abandoned their most precious city centers and stopped writing about their rulers. Why the ancient Maya civilization fell is one of the greatest archaeological mysteries. So, of course we explore the most popular, science-backed beliefs about what led to their dramatic end.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhile the people have left us, their stories and influence remains. Whether it is through genetic ties, curiosity, a visit to the amazing sites, or by incorporating their tasty crops into our own kitchens (tomatoes, chilies, chocolate…the list goes on), everyone has felt the impact of the ancient Maya!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158063952063,"sku":"MAG00023","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AoMagJulAug20-300.jpg?v=1625564485"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-september-2020","title":"AO Magazine - September 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe famous American astronomer, Edwin Krupp, once said that “across the whole face of the earth, are found mysterious ruins of ancient monuments with astronomical significance... They mark the same kind of commitment that transported us to the moon and our spacecraft to the surface of Mars.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor centuries, people have marveled at ancient structures such as the pyramids of Giza, Stonehenge, Newgrange, and thousands of other equally impressive sites, pondering how such immense works were undertaken, and awe-struck by the amount of effort and commitment that must have been poured into their construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut these sites become even more amazing when the deeper layer is revealed – astronomical alignments, symbolic layouts and representations of cosmic order embedded in the very placement of the stones. Many of these sites are not just simple monuments, but complex constructions that enshrine the remarkable achievements of ancient astronomers. They reflect a vision of mankind’s efforts to integrate culture and religion with the mysteries of the cosmos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArchaeoastronomy draws upon archaeological evidence and mythological traditions to reveal how ancient humans perceived celestial phenomena, and how their understanding of the skies became intricately woven into their monuments and into the very fabric of their existence and daily life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt is a ‘new’ field, having only been officially recognized since the 1970s, but in just a few decades, experts have come to learn much about these ancient astronomers and how they connected stars and stones to develop timekeeping, weather prediction, navigation, agriculture and a rich mythology and belief system, which have profoundly marked our world and our own modern understanding of astronomy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158069129407,"sku":"MAG00024","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineSep2020-300.jpg?v=1625564532"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-december-2020","title":"AO Magazine - December 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe once attempted to solve one of history’s little mysteries – the location of some missing artifacts in Ecuador which provided evidence of contact between Mesopotamia and South America in ancient times. The search led us into hidden vaults within the Central Bank of Ecuador. Then it landed us in front of some influential religious figures, who suggested we drop the search if we wished to remain unharmed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome mysteries, like the missing relics in Ecuador, are not unsolved.  They are buried by a few to prevent people hearing a different story, perhaps an inconvenient truth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOthers are genuine puzzles that may never be solved, like the baffling prehistoric ‘cart ruts’ of Malta that criss-cross across the landscape like a complex network of tracks found at a busy railway station, or the meaning of a set of strange hieroglyphic symbols of the Phaistos Disc, a 3,500-year-old clay plate found in the ruins of a Minoan palace in Greece. So much time has passed since their creation that scientists and historians alike struggle to find any evidence at all to solve these ancient riddles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we delve into some of history’s most head-scratching conundrums, like the 12\u003csup data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecentury account of two children with green-hued skin that emerged from a field in rural England, or the tale of a man that arrived at Tokyo Airport with a passport issued by the non-existent country of Taured – are they just urban legends or is their truth behind these historic tales? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe also turn to one of the greatest enigmas in history – the Holy Grail – the alleged cup that Jesus drank from at the Last Supper and that Joseph of Arimathea used to collect Jesus’s blood at his crucifixion. Over the centuries, thousands of scholars have attempted to find, understand or decipher the legend of the grail, but have any of them found the answer?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhile scientific advancements have turned up more mysteries from our ancient past – like traces of an ancient unknown species encoded in our DNA – they have also enabled us to solve many of history’s biggest riddles, including ancient cold cases, strange structures, undeciphered scripts, inexplicable historical accounts and mystifying ancient technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJoin us on a journey through the great unanswered questions of our time, which continue to captivate and intrigue us to this day.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158071357631,"sku":"MAG00026","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagDec2020-300.jpg?v=1625564541"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-octobernovember-2020","title":"AO Magazine - OctoberNovember 2020","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor many people, mummies conjure up images of horrifying, linen-wrapped monstrosities, arms reaching out from the dark, dusty tombs in which they have emerged. Fueled by legends and pop culture, superstitions remain strong even today – opening a mummy’s tomb is sure to lead to certain death, or at the very least, a lifetime of bad luck! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut in the ancient world, mummification was an honored tradition in which the deceased was ceremonially prepared for the afterlife, often through an elaborate and highly skilled process that was imbued with deep religious significance. So successful was this mummification process, in many instances, that the stomach of the deceased may still contain the last meal they ate before death.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTo look upon a mummy is to come face to face with our past. The remains of these ancient humans provide a window into the lives, health, culture, and deaths of individuals that have long gone. Today’s scientists treat them with great care, realizing that within them can be found knowledge of times passed. But it was not always this way. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMummies have been ground into paint, boiled down into medicines, burned as fuel, and paraded around as entertainment. They were a commodity, a curiosity and a prized relic of an ancient age – the properties of which were believed to be both mystical and powerful. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we bring to life the unknown worlds of the long-dead - exploring the near-perfect remains of ‘incorruptible’ medieval saints, unraveling the mystery of a mummified Persian princess bearing signs of a violent death, investigating the identity of the ‘Screaming Mummy’ who met a gruesome end, and celebrating the thousands of mummies – both human and animal – that have been discovered across the world, providing deep insights into the people of our past. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158071914687,"sku":"MAG00025","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AoMagOctNov2020-300.jpg?v=1625564556"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-2021","title":"AO Magazine - March 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt was the French general and emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (1769 – 1821) who said: \"Let China sleep, for when she awakes, she will shake the world\". With the largest standing army on the planet, the second biggest economy and one fifth of the world's population, Napoleon’s statement has proved prophetic, as China has proceeded to shake the world to its very foundation. It is only by examining its extraordinary past that we can begin to understand this astounding rise to power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eChina has one of the oldest and longest lasting civilizations in history. It also boasts the largest number of inventions that have influenced us today, including the compass, gunpowder, paper, and printing. For many centuries, the sophistication of its culture, science, and technology outshined the rest of the world.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut make no mistake, throughout four millennia of Chinese history, there were not only golden years of innovation, noble emperors, and cultured philosophers and scholars, but also centuries of unimaginable turmoil, ruthless rulers, and devastating wars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we look at some of the greatest splendours of ancient China, such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Leshan Giant Buddha; we spotlight its rich religious and philosophical tradition; and we highlight some of its greatest creations, like the world-famous terracotta army of the First Emperor. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe also delve into its turbulent and checkered past, including the reign of its most tyrannical concubine turned empress, and a devastating defeat in history’s largest naval battle. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOne thing is for sure, the history of the planet's most populous country is one of the most fascinating, dramatic, and influential in the world. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158073520319,"sku":"MAG00028","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagMar2021-300.jpg?v=1625564566"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-january-february-2021","title":"AO Magazine - January-February 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are more than six billion people on the planet that worship a god or gods in one form or another. But humanity’s belief in god has fundamentally changed. Today, most adherents of a religion believe in a benevolent, merciful, and loving god (or gods). But it was not always this way. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the ancient world, gods and goddesses were believed to cast their wrath and fury upon the world, bringing droughts and floods, sickness, crop failures, plagues, and endless disasters. There were, of course, benevolent deities too – protectors, providers, healers, creators, and saviors, but their favor could not always be counted on, and keeping them appeased with offerings, rituals, or sacrifice, was of utmost importance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReligious beliefs were so intricately woven into the fabric of existence that major events, such as wars, the rise and fall of rulers, and natural disasters; and even the ordinary events of daily life, were all believed to be under the will of the gods - nothing happened on earth unless first decreed in the heavens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn many ways, these gods of old have never truly left us. Tales of their battles, bickering and conquests have influenced the course of our language and narrative. In fact, we pay homage to them daily – every Thursday (Thor’s Day), for example, we recall the Norse god Thor, the almighty god of thunder, while in February, we recollect Februus, the Roman god of purification. Traces of these ancient gods are also found in our modern-day symbols – the caduceus of god Mercury remains a symbol of trade and commerce, while the rod of Greek god Asclepius is a symbol used by healthcare and medical practices around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNot only have the ancient gods never truly disappeared, but a revival in polytheistic beliefs is stirring once more. Nordic paganism is now Iceland’s fastest-growing religion, with the construction of the first temple to Thor and Odin in over 1,000 years, and all across Europe, we are seeing a renewed interest and adherence to old pagan traditions. Will we see the rise of the ancient gods once more?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40158074110143,"sku":"MAG00027","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AoMagJanFeb21-300.jpg?v=1625564571"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-april-may-2021","title":"AO Magazine - April-May 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOn January 9, 1493, Christopher Columbus was sailing in the Caribbean Sea when he reported seeing three mermaids rise out of the sea. Writing in his ship log, he revealed that they were not as beautiful as typically depicted in paintings, but that they did have a human face. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eColumbus’ report was not particularly unusual for his era. In centuries past, the world’s oceans were thought to be full of sea monsters, sirens, krakens, and other bewildering creatures. We now know that most of these cryptids, or “hidden animals”, described in the Middle Ages correspond with species that had not yet been classified by science, such as whales, walruses, and giant squids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSadly, Columbus had not seen mermaids but most likely manatees – a marine mammal related to the elephant which, from a distance, can appear human-like; they have round heads which they can turn from side to side, their forearms bend at the elbow, and they nurse their young in the same way humans do. In fact, the scientific name for manatees is\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSirenia\u003c\/em\u003e, a name reminiscent of sirens, the mythical mermaids of ancient Greece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt is at this collision point between the fantastical creatures of folklore and the animals not yet discovered by science, that we find the field of cryptozoology, which is dedicated to the study of animals rumored but not proven to exist. Some animals we know today, like the gorilla and platypus, were once cryptids but are now recognized by science. Others, like bigfoot, sasquatch or the Loch Ness monster continue to tempt the hopeful with the possibility of their existence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we delve into the curious world of cryptids, exploring what facts are behind the legends of Olgoi-Khorkhoi, the Mongolian death worm of the Gobi Desert; Camazotz, the batman of Mesoamerica; Kraken, the giant, ship-destroying sea creature of Scandinavian folklore; Unicorns, and the dinosaur-like monsters said to lurk in the depths of lakes. Of course, we could not leave out the world’s most captivating cryptid – bigfoot, and his related ‘cousins’, the yeti, yowie and sasquatch. What is behind the global phenomenon of hairy hominid sightings? We also hear from a cryptozoologist who tells us what it is really like out in the field searching for cryptids, and we leave you with the ultimate cryptid film list!  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSkeptics love to poke fun at cryptids research, but there is one thing that both cryptozoologists and scientists can agree on – there are a lot of strange creatures out there whose existence has yet to be proven.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40801340686527,"sku":"MAG00029","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagAprMay2021-300.jpg?v=1633002985"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-june-2021","title":"AO Magazine - June 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe German-born American architect Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe once said: “Architecture wrote the history of the epochs and gave them their names”. From the Classical and Hellenistic to the Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque, each era has been defined and remembered for its awe-inspiring and monumental creations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe story of architecture is, in fact, the story of humanity. Each architectural accomplishment reflects the social, economic and technological achievements in human history, and opens a window on the priorities, ambitions, power, and vision of civilizations past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArchitecture in ancient times frequently displayed a unification between the divine and mortal world. Monuments performed important practical functions, but they also held a symbolic role, serving as a link between the earth and the heavens. In many civilizations, the creative force applied in the practice of architecture was likened to the creative force of God himself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue, we journey through time and place to explore some of the world’s most impressive constructions, from the soaring ziggurats of Mesopotamia to the unique buildings of the Ancestral Puebloans in Mule Canyon, the magnificent stepwells of ancient India, and the jaw-dropping rock-cut tombs of Lycia. We also look at some of the greatest architectural tragedies – the burning of Notre-Dame de Paris and the destruction of Palmyra at the hands of terrorists– and examine latest progress to rebuild, revive, or simply remember these amazing historic sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhile skyscrapers, suspension bridges, and now 3D-printed buildings are marvels of modern engineering, the key pioneering moments in architectural history have left a lasting impact on our buildings to his day, and have changed the shape of architecture for all time.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40801340784831,"sku":"MAG00030","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AoMagJun2021-300.jpg?v=1633002987"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-july-august-2021","title":"AO Magazine - July August 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games will include five new sports - baseball\/softball, karate, sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing. This is one of the ways these Olympics are unique, but this event also differs from others in striking ways due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFor one thing, the Olympics were postponed for a year. Another difference from past events is that fans won’t be there to cheer on their favorite athletes. Tens of thousands of athletes, support staff, and journalists are expected to attend, but spectators have been banned from the venues. While debate continues on whether sports broadcasters will try to incorporate artificial crowd noise into the games, it makes me consider the role of spectators at the Olympic Games of the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe ancient Olympics also knew how to draw in crowds of men (women weren’t allowed). The stadium of Olympia could contain about 45,000 spectators and that in Nemea about 40,000. If they had the means, men would travel from far and wide to watch their favorite runners, boxers, wrestlers, horse racers, and javelin throwers. But the audiences didn’t just attend because they loved sports, they also knew that the Games were a good place to network.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn-between events, merchants, fortune-tellers, jugglers, and many others conducted business. Even philosophers and writers, like the historian Herodotus, sought out the large audiences with hopes of gaining fame. Politicians of course saw the occasion as a good opportunity for political propaganda.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhile spectators were undoubtedly important ever since the ancient Games, most people would agree the value of sports is more than just the number of fans cheering on athletes. Although some sports stars, such as the charioteer Gaius Appuleius Diocles, who you’ll learn about in this issue, were out for fame, many athletes are spurred on by their love of the sport more than their adoring fans and money.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue we explore the origins and passion people hold for popular sports such as football, golf, and boxing all around the world. But we also cover some terrifying sports you may be less familiar with, such as buzkashi, described as “blood-drenched polo, with a headless goat as the ball.” A less intense, but equally surprising sport you’ll learn about is lava sledding in Hawaii – we have an exclusive interview with the man behind this ancient sport’s comeback.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRemember how I mentioned that women couldn’t attend the ancient Olympics where men competed? They had their own! This issue guides you through the fascinating story of the Heraean Games, one of history’s best kept secrets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSpeaking of secrets and mysteries, we also cover the legends surrounding the Cwezi – were they African demigods or possibly visitors from another planet?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40801341079743,"sku":"MAG00031","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagJulAug21-300.jpg?v=1633002988"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-september-2021","title":"AO Magazine - September 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFrom our earliest days we have been cohabiting the planet with animals. They’ve been regarded as pets and pests, considered sacred, been sacrificed, and used for resources and labor. Animals have been integral to every aspect of our lives – we encounter them in the wild, public arenas, our homes, and of course, our art. They’ve been hunted, herded, sheltered, and loved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue we explore our complex cohabitation with animals around the world and since prehistoric times. Archaeozoologist Dr. Annie Antonites reveals how faunal remains at archaeological sites provide unique insight into the relationship between ancient people and animals. In some cases, such as the extinct dodo, we have to turn to the remains to discover the truth – it was not the dumb bird some fairy tales would suggest!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArtifacts also reveal much about a society’s perspective on different animals. For example, a mechanical dog housed in the MET shines light on one of our species’ favorite companions. While the ancient Egyptians famously revered the slinky, clever cat, and worshiped feline-headed deities, did you know they were apparently “obsessed” with their dogs too?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTo discover more about the relationships between cultures and creatures, we trace the paths of elephants from battlefields to the big top, and ponder why some cultures have loved hedgehogs while others despised them. We turn to art and literature for insight too. Be it the image of a spider in a Moche temple or the colorful tales of “monsters” in the pages of Medieval bestiaries, we can see how animals have been used as symbols reflecting human beliefs throughout time. Animal trials further reveal the bizarre way animals reflected perceptions of morality and the complex relationship between man and beast in the Middle Ages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis issue also examines the strange story of a Viking ship allegedly lost in a Californian desert, and the powerful, deadly kunoichi – female ninjas who sometimes sported poison-coated wolverine claws to assassinate their targets!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are not enough pages to discuss all the ways we have lived with, loved, and sometimes feared animals, but this issue reveals how our relationships and thoughts on animals not only reflect our view of nature, but also the nature of humanity itself.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40801341112511,"sku":"MAG00032","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagSep21-300.jpg?v=1633002989"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-october-november-2021","title":"AO Magazine - October November 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eEveryone can name at least a few ancient kingdoms that they learned about in school, read about in a popular book, or watched someone discuss on a tv special or in a film. These are often stories about ancient Rome, Egypt, or Greece. But there are many other fascinating kingdoms that don’t receive the attention they deserve.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lost kingdoms that we showcase in this issue are either kingdoms that don’t exist anymore, imaginary realms people once believed to be real, or forgotten empires that are often overlooked in the pages of history. For many of these kingdoms, all that is left today are their names, legends, and sometimes archaeological sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut those details may be enough to inspire an explorer who’s keen on adventure and solving mysteries. Their journeys may have been full of perils, but I wonder if the Portuguese explorers who ventured into unknown lands on a quest for Prester John and his fabled kingdom returned home satisfied that they had the courage to travel somewhere new. Of course they weren’t the only ones to set out in search of lost kingdoms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI get the impression that despite their hardships and failure in finding the hidden land of Shambhala, the Roerich couple did enjoy their expeditions into hard-to-reach and little-investigated areas of Central Asia. The lost kingdom of Punt is another elusive land, one that researchers are still looking for. Finding the reasons behind Hatshepsut’s visits and what she brought home, as well as examining an ancient baboon skull, may help to finally solve this mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from forgotten kingdoms, this issue also examines a moment which is often overlooked in history, but relevant to us today. Author Jonathon Perrin demonstrates the parallels between the devastating plagues that struck Egypt in the time of the Sun Pharaohs and the recent pandemic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, we couldn’t let this time of year go by without mentioning paranormal events. To round out the issue we examine the tragic, terrifying origins of the famous ghost called La Llorona. An in-depth investigation reveals the truth behind a ghost which has allegedly haunted people for centuries in Mexico and across Latin America. Don’t read that article late at night!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41138428444863,"sku":"MAG00033","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagOct21-300_1.jpg?v=1639661267"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-december-2021","title":"AO Magazine - December 2021","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is an issue that will satisfy both foodies \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand\u003c\/em\u003e history-lovers!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFood has shaped human evolution and we have shaped our environment and food. We transformed food from diet to cuisine, tied it to our cultural identities and heritage, and made it integral to our rituals, holidays, and traditions. By studying the history of food, our ancestors’ eating habits, and ancient cookbooks we discover more than just what people were eating – we also gain glimpses into life beyond the kitchen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue Robyn E. Cutright, Associate Professor of Anthropology and Latin American Studies at Centre College, discusses her research on the ancient Andes to explain how past food choices influenced human evolution and traditional food practices. She also shares her perspectives on the Paleo diet, the difference between diet and cuisine, why recreating ancient recipes is cool, the most uncomfortable traditional food practice she’s experienced, and why everyone was baking bread last year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis issue also contains a recipe for a seasonal favorite – spiced wine. The Medieval version of this beverage was known as Hippocras. While you may not be familiar with the name of this warming, spiced drink, it’s likely that you have enjoyed something like it, usually as the days get colder and the nights longer. We also provide you with a list of 10 cookbooks for you to examine, and maybe try your hand at cooking some more ancient recipes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAt this time of year many of us gather with friends and family and reflect on our past and the future. Whether you decide to make a traditional spiced wine, go wassailing (the orchard or caroling version), or maybe share a New Years’ pizza with family and friends, pause a moment to reflect on the importance food has in keeping our holidays and traditions alive and the joy of sharing meals and connecting with our loved ones.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41138428608703,"sku":"MAG00034","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagDec21-300.jpg?v=1639661363"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-january-february-2022","title":"AO Magazine January February 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLove is a powerful emotion and even though we experience it in a deeply personal way, it has a history. In the past - as today - love has expressed itself in all kinds of relationships, held different meanings, and created both bliss and havoc. Love has inspired all forms of art and religion, but also caused wars and controversy. Anything we think ourselves capable of today in the love department has been tried, tested, praised, and abused by people in the past too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue we explore romantic love in various tones. First, we uncover the loving, and sometimes tragic, stories of devoted couples from long ago. Then we reveal the forgotten story of the Sacred Band of Thebes, who were not only supreme warriors but coupled lovers as well. You’ll discover the tale of a Neolithic Romeo and Juliet and swoon over the touching love stories of legendary couples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNext, we discuss the lusty side of romance, as it is depicted in erotic ceramics created by an ancient Peruvian culture and graveyard prostitutes in ancient Rome. We also tell you which of today’s favorite aphrodisiacs come from antiquity and the truth about chastity belts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eYou may be shocked by Ovid’s love advice from ancient Rome and the 31 rules that were provided for ‘courtly love’ in the Middle Ages. But those are not the only surprises this issue holds, as we also expose the dark origins of Valentine’s Day, the chilling tale of a Japanese snow spirit, and the possible solution to what all those strange containers from ancient Babylon really mean.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41290827694271,"sku":"MAG00035","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagJanFeb22-300.jpg?v=1644146302"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-2022","title":"AO Magazine - March 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eMany powerful and influential women left their mark on history. They were just as strong and fearless, if not more, than the men around them. Although the records that have survived the ages aren’t always an accurate picture of what life was like thousands of years ago—generally these are narratives dominated by men writing about men — powerful women are plentiful in history. These women weren’t content to be the handmaids of men but lived life on their own terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this issue you’ll find inspirational stories of women such as Fatima Al-Fihri, who founded the al-Qarawiyyin mosque and university in Fez, Morocco, and Sophie Blanchard, who was the first female balloonist to pilot solo flights. You’ll also discover the stories of six women who fought for their beliefs on the battlefield and the history of female leaders ruling ancient Peru.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe reveal how the lives of real women are sometimes transformed into myth too; for example, Scythian warrior women may have inspired the myth of Amazons and stereotypical witches may be based on the appearance and skills of independent alewives. In more modern times, we see how even Disney stories sometimes draw upon the lives of women from history and how the lives of influential women from the past play out in on the silver screen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also venture into the distant past to examine the fossils of the five hominin species that were present at South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind, and we close out this issue with an examination of the strange cases of medieval dancing mania and what may have caused the social phenomenon.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41475329294527,"sku":"MAG00036","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagMarch22-300.jpg?v=1648824204"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-april-may-2022","title":"AO Magazine - April May 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhat is rock art? Who created the mysterious symbols adorning the deepest darkest caves and tallest rock faces? How can you explain the similarities found in artwork created by different and long-forgotten cultures located thousands of miles away from each other? When did our distant ancestors begin to make marks on stone, and what can it tell us about the early human mind?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePrehistoric rock art is both fascinating and mysterious to modern minds. Whether we’re examining the elaborate paintings hidden within Lascaux Cave or pondering the meaning of strange symbols carved into a boulder in North America, we gain a unique opportunity to connect with our most distant ancestors. We may never fully comprehend the messages left by them on stone, but the very existence of rock art allows us to glimpse into the past and momentarily recapture the essence of a long-lost time when the world was a very different place.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis issue doesn’t shy away from the big questions surrounding rock art. We search for the reasons our ancestors created prehistoric art in stone, ponder which rock art dating methods are best, consider the roles of shamans in cave art creation, and examine the most puzzling rock art in the world – including the extraordinary story of the Wandjina Sky Beings painted on stone in Australia. We see how carvings set in stone can reflect images seen in the sky in Armenia, trace the transformation of the images presented on rock by generations of artists in the Sahara, reveal the challenges in rock art (and sometimes graffiti!) conservation today, and even explore whether prehistoric art and the origins of language are interconnected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStepping away from the enigmatic realm of rock art we find another mystery – the hunt for Cleopatra’s lost tomb. Dr. Kathleen Martinez is at the forefront of the quest for Cleopatra’s final resting place, and she tells us all about her latest and best excavation discoveries while she searches for the iconic Egyptian queen!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41598422876351,"sku":"MAG00037","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagAprMay22-300.jpg?v=1651339356"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-june-2022","title":"AO Magazine - June 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"In an honest service there is thin commons, low wages, and hard labor; in this, plenty and satiety, pleasure and ease, liberty and power; and who would not balance creditor on this side, when all the hazard that is run for it, at worst, is only a sour look or two at choking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNo, a merry life and a short one, shall be my motto.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e- Bartholomew \"Black Bart\" Roberts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBlack Bart was a successful pirate during the Golden Age of Piracy. He captured and looted more ships than many of his contemporaries, had his own fleet of four ships and hundreds of men following his orders, and he died as he had wished – he was just 40 years old when he was killed in action by pirate hunters in 1722.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBlack Bart wasn’t alone in seeing the allure of piracy. It’s estimated that during the Gold Age of Piracy there were more than 5000 pirates. You know many of their names: Henry Morgan, William 'Captain' Kidd, 'Calico' Jack Rackham, and the fearsome Blackbeard (Edward Teach). They were notorious and when other ships saw the black flag flying, they knew they were in for a horrifying encounter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThings changed with the popularity of books such as Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Pirates became linked to stories of buried treasure and adventure. They were swashbucklers and plunderers with eyepatches, men who kept parrots on their shoulders and said things like “Avast me hearty!” Pirates became increasingly gentler, and even fun, over the years. I remember watching gentlemen pirates like the ludicrous Captain Hook in the film Hook, and charming rogues like the Dread Pirate Roberts in The Princess Bride and Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean. But the tides have shifted again, and with current world events we’re remembering that piracy isn’t all fun and games…or a thing of the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis issue reveals real stories of pirates. We trace their journeys from the havens of Port Royal to the Indian Ocean. Along the way we reveal the origins of the Jolly Roger, pirate codes of conduct, and the punishments awaiting the men who stepped out of line. We even debunk some popular myths – forget buried treasures and walking the plank! Terrorism and piracy expert Dr. Peter Lehr highlights the similarities and differences between pirates from the past and present, providing a fuller picture of the history of piracy, why people become pirates, and techniques to eradicate piracy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41784669569215,"sku":"MAG00038","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagJun22-300.jpg?v=1657184545"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-july-august-2022","title":"AO Magazine - July August 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMany people today couldn’t imagine what they’d do for entertainment if someone took away their smartphone, computer, TV, and videogames. But it is possible to have fun without these things – we just need to remember what our ancestors used to do!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you think about it, several forms of entertainment have been passed down through generations. While we may not be heading out to watch a gladiator battle anytime soon, we do still love to have parties, play and watch sports, and we go to the theater, opera, concerts, and zoos, just like our ancestors did before us. Many of us enjoy a good prank every once in a while too!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn this issue we celebrate the fun and games of the past, touching on some of our own favorite pastimes such as board games (Backgammon’s been around a lot longer than you’d expect), card games (tarot wasn’t always for divination!), and parties (but no, we’ve never been to an authentic ancient Greek-style symposium). We also revel in the stories and hi-jinks of a couple of history’s lesser-known comedians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you’re looking for some interesting stories to tell at your next get together, consider surprising your guests with the curious proposal that Atlantis may be hidden under Tunisian sands, and that the well-known character Jack the Giant Killer may actually be based on a real man – who was a Crusader!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41845965029567,"sku":"MAG00039","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagJulAug22-300.jpg?v=1659607311"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-september-october-2022","title":"AO Magazine - September October 2022","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTravel back in time to the rise of civilization among the lush, green lands between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. For more than 3,000 years Mesopotamia flourished with its complex urban societies and powerful kings who expanded their empires with warfare and diplomacy. The Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians all called this region home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAncient Mesopotamia is notable for its role in many of humanity’s firsts - written language, the wheel, our concept of time, math, maps, and law codes - these developments set it apart from other civilizations rising around it. This was also a land rich in magic and mystery, so we reveal the legend of the world’s first shaman, how exorcisms, witchcraft, and the gods permeated life, and how lullabies were much more than songs to soothe babies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJoin us as we bring the ruins of ancient Mesopotamian cities up from the sands and animate them by telling their stories. Witness the beauty of the Ishtar Gate and Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but also discover the surprising tale of treasures and sacrifice at the Great Death Pit of Ur. See how experts continue to bring this ancient civilization to life by recreating its beer and culinary wonders. If that’s not enough, you’ll also finally learn the reason why reggae music makes reference to Babylon!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42093953876159,"sku":"MAG00040","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagSepOct22-300.jpg?v=1669041593"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-november-december-2022","title":"AO Magazine - November December 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere are many reasons people become fascinated by Egypt. It truly is a land of wonders - so ancient and sacred but also vibrant and full of modern life. It’s been a couple years since I was there, but this issue brought back all the wonderful memories – venturing into the Great Pyramid of Giza, watching a sunrise while standing beside the Sphinx, marvelling at the immensity and intricacy of the temples and tombs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe open this issue with an extraordinary timeline of the ancient Egyptian civilization – it’s the kind of article you’d like to print off and share with people studying ancient Egypt. From there we discover the secrets of life and death in ancient Egypt through articles on medicine, magic, and the false doors incorporated into elaborate tombs. We see how both deserts and wars shaped Egyptian society and ponder what their lost labyrinth would have looked like. Our exclusive interviews with Ted Loukes on his travels through Egypt and Michael E. Habicht, an Egyptologist whose work includes facial reconstructions of ancient mummies using modern technology, bring the stories of Egypt’s past and present together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNovember 4, 2022 marked the centennial of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb, so we couldn’t let this issue go by without discussing the discovery, treasures, and controversies surrounding one of the greatest finds in modern history. Finally, this is also the time of year when people begin to prepare for the December holiday season, so we explore the origins of two of the major celebrations: Hanukkah and Christmas.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42093953974463,"sku":"MAG00041","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagazineContentsNovDec22-300.jpg?v=1669041651"},{"product_id":"copy-of-ao-magazine-november-december-2022","title":"AO Magazine - January February 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eMany people expect their heroes to be perfect, but even heroic people have flaws. Our ancestors knew this, and the heroic protagonists of their legends weren’t infallible. By bringing their heroes down to a more human level, the idea of doing heroic acts also became more attainable. Courageous acts and noble qualities weren’t just for gods and goddesses, real people did brave things and had morals and virtues as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDiscover new perspective on the stories of familiar names such as Joan of Arc, King Arthur, and Alexander the Great. Were the voices that Joan of Arc heard of divine or neurological origin? Was King Arthur’s story elevated to the extent that he became a British messiah? We also question whether the famous Alexander was really so great. Times and cultures change and evolve, and, as we find out in this issue, sometimes a hero becomes a villain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinally, we explore two amazing ancient sites; one with a tragic story and the other a story of hope and revival. Read the tale of the Peking Man site filled with political drama, international alliances, and mysterious deaths and disappearances. Then discover the amazing past and bright future for the ancient Mesopotamian site of Girsu with an exclusive interview with Dr. Sébastien Rey, the curator for ancient Mesopotamia at the British Museum and director of the Girsu Project in Iraq.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46526547165523,"sku":"MAG00042","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/CoverJanFeb2023.jpg?v=1681904656"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-april-2023","title":"AO Magazine - March April 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor centuries, tomb raiders have been on a mission to plunder valuable artifacts from tombs and other cultural sites, often leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The impact of these heinous acts is immeasurable, as the loss of cultural heritage and historical context cannot be undone. What's worse is that these nefarious raiders are willing to exploit the dead for their own financial gain, raising serious ethical and moral concerns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis issue takes a closer look at the harrowing reality of tomb raiding, with real-world examples of the lengths to which these criminals will go. From the desecration of graves in the Nazca desert to the use of explosives and bulldozers by tomb raiders, the scope of damage is alarming. Then the looted treasures have been whisked away to collectors or museums, often without a thought for their sacred significance to the cultures they were taken from.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut what about the artifacts we see in museums and other institutions today? How did they get there in the first place?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe answer to those questions is complicated, and it's one that's being brought to the forefront of the global conversation on repatriation and the ongoing impact of colonialism. As more countries demand the return of their artifacts, museums, universities, and private collectors are facing mounting pressure to right historical wrongs. In this issue, we delve into the themes of repatriation and the decolonization of museums with an interview and the debates surrounding artifacts such as the Elgin Marbles and the Benin Bronzes. But the problem doesn't end there. We also examine how social networks and technology are both aiding and hindering the activities of modern-day tomb raiders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the challenges we face, there are success stories to be found. We highlight stories like the stolen Orpheus mosaic that was returned to Turkey, the cherished moai statue that was welcomed back to Easter Island, and the crown jewels that were confiscated from a 17th century thief.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46526662312275,"sku":"MAG00043","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/products\/AOMagMarApr23-600.jpg?v=1681906306"},{"product_id":"copy-of-ao-magazine-june-july-2023","title":"AO Magazine - May June 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn a world where so much of our life is spent indoors, staring at screens, there is something truly exciting about stories of great exploration. The idea of venturing into the unknown, facing danger, and discovering something new has captivated people for centuries. From the great sea voyages of the Age of Discovery to the exploration of the polar regions and beyond, the exploits of famous explorers have captured our imagination and inspired us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this issue we cover some of these amazing journeys. You’ll see familiar names such as Leif Erikson, Zheng He, and Ibn Battuta, alongside less-familiar faces like Jeanne Baret (the first woman to circumnavigate the globe), Pytheas of Massalia (an ancient Greek who travelled to the Arctic Circle and back), and a list of modern day adventurers following in the footsteps of explorers from the past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese stories show us that there is still so much to discover around the world and, perhaps most importantly, they remind us of the power of the human spirit. No matter how difficult a challenge may seem, we are capable of achieving incredible things if we set our minds to it and take a leap to create the lives and stories we want to be remembered for!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47010973122899,"sku":"MAG00044","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AOMagMayJune23-300.jpg?v=1693225638"},{"product_id":"copy-of-ao-magazine-may-june-2023","title":"AO Magazine - July August 2023","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStep into a world where fashion transcends time and history is woven into every garment. In this issue, we explore the captivating realm of beauty, style, and fashion throughout history. From extreme practices of traditional body modification to the opulent (and sometimes dangerous) choices of style icons such as Elizabeth I, the history of fashion reveals its complexities to us. Whether you see these styles and concepts of beauty as alluring, bizarre, or even gruesome, they’re never boring!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWe expose the ways rulers and cultures have controlled access to certain clothing items, such as purple togas and the use of veils, and showcase ten unique fashion choices from history. You’ll discover the intricate hair rituals of the Himba people, in which every hairstyle carries significance and provides clues to a person’s identity, and be amazed by how people used to perceive plastic surgery.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDive deep into fascinating fashion trends with our in-depth interviews with historical fashion experts Judith Arnopp and Elizabeth Semmelhack, as they discuss what it takes to dress like a Tudor and the remarkable history and cultural significance of shoes, respectively. Unlock the secrets of timeless beauty with our ancestors’ favorite natural skin and hair care treatments and immerse yourself in the strange and wonderful stories that the world of ancient fashion has to tell.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47088183312723,"sku":"MAG00045","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AOMAGJulAug23-300.jpg?v=1705519374"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-september-october-2023","title":"AO Magazine - September October 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn a world often dictated by science and hard facts, we invite you to momentarily suspend disbelief, open yourself up to possibilities and wonder, and journey to the realm of paranormal phenomena. Grab your favorite brew and let’s investigate unexplained events, delight in eerie tales of ghosts and haunted houses, ponder the significance of psychics and magic, and consider the subject of UFOs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we delve into the underlying psychology of haunted houses and ghostly sightings, we attempt to unmask the truths that lie beneath the veil of the paranormal, offering a balanced sojourn that both questions and marvels at the unexplained. Amidst extraordinary tales, we've also carved out a sanctuary of science, a place where analytical minds can find solace while studying mysteries from the past. In this issue we’re joined by two experts. Jeremy Harte maps the borderlands where folklore meets landscape and the supernatural, and Dr. Neil Dagnall is an Associate Professor in Applied Cognitive Psychology involved with the teaching and researching of the anomalous for over 20 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, join us as we travel through the haunting depths of Transylvania’s Hoia Forest, a place where the mundane meets the mystical, leaving adventurers with chills and more questions than answers. Then let your mind wander through historic haunted sites and stories of monarchs who dabbled in the occult, as the echoes of the past continue to rouse our imagination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom uncovering the secrets behind spirit doubles that have inspired awe and dread in equal measure, to exploring the tantalizing possibility that ancient artists and writers were witnesses to phenomena beyond earthly comprehension, this unique issue invites you to not only read, but contemplate mysteries that have bewitched humanity for centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMay this issue entertain you and spark the luminous ember of wonder that resides within us all!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47580808872275,"sku":"MAG00046","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AOMagSepOct23-300.jpg?v=1705519439"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-november-december-2023","title":"AO Magazine - November December 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003eExamining and recreating the instruments our ancestors left behind, singing their songs, and exploring the locations where they performed gives us a much richer understanding of the past and brings their stories to life in a way quietly pondering archaeological sites as if they were silent places of worship cannot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this issue we explore the theme of ancient music through the ages and across the globe. You’ll read about prehistoric stones which seem to magically turn into instruments (if you know how to play them), the tradition of singer-storytellers known as griots, and the origins of flamenco. Discover how music and megalithic sites intertwine and why it’s probably best to never play Tutankhamun’s trumpets again! Finally, as the holiday season approaches, read about six unique winter holiday gift-bearers and discover the origins of Christmas carols, a cherished musical tradition that’s endured for generations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo, the next time you are at an ancient site and the guide mentions that it’s a space where people held celebrations, remember that music is a vital component of festivities since time immemorial, and maybe hum a little song, tuning in to the music of the past.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47580816015699,"sku":"MAG00047","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AOMagNovDec23-300.jpg?v=1705519519"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-november-december-2023-copy","title":"AO Magazine -January February 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Renaissance - a time when art, science, and human curiosity sparked a cultural rebirth!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine strolling through Florence, where every corner seems to echo with the clinks and clatters of creativity. Here, Michelangelo worked his magic on marble, while Leonardo da Vinci painted his masterpieces and thought up his innovative, and sometimes deadly, inventions. Witness the glory of the Spanish Golden Age, a time of artistic and literary genius, then head north where Copernicus turned his eyes to the stars, reshaping humanity’s perception of our place in the universe. However, the Renaissance wasn't just about art and science; it was also home to the mystical and the mysterious, a world where magic blended with the quest to explain the wonders of nature and the universe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile for most women life in the Renaissance was entwined with the indoor realm, we share the stories of courageous female characters from this era who stand out for their contributions to the cultural and intellectual climate of their time, laying the groundwork for future developments. We also discuss the House of Borgia, waltzing through a maze of power plays, and look for the truth behind this family’s notorious reputation. Venice's Bridge Wars is another reminder that this era had its share of action-packed and violent drama.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Renaissance is a time that still dazzles and challenges us to look beyond the horizon, proving that history is anything but dull!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48154579075411,"sku":"MAG00048","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AOMagJanFeb24-300.jpg?v=1715678730"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-march-april-2024","title":"AO Magazine - March April 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore the sinister side of history, where ancient murderers, assassins, and serial killers fill tales of intrigue and malice. But this issue is not just a recount of historical darkness and the macabre, it also reflects our continuous quest to understand the human psyche.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeaturing an exclusive interview with Kathy Reichs, celebrated forensic anthropologist and author of the Bones series, we offer a modern lens on ancient crimes, highlighting how forensic advancements unlock secrets of the past. Our exploration spans from the origins of the true crime genre to the intricate narratives of power and morality encapsulated by the legendary hashshashins and France’s scandalous affair of the poisons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou’ll read about some of antiquity's most notorious killers and the dark sacrificial rituals of past societies then see how Homo sapiens contrast with our evolutionary kin, as we ponder our unique capacity for both creativity, empathy, and cruelty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis issue is not just a recount of historical darkness and the macabre, but a reflection on our continuous quest to understand the human psyche. Through the ancient lens, we seek to comprehend the shadowy side of human nature and, perhaps, learn lessons to shape a better future.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49073005855059,"sku":"MAG00049","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AoMag49-600.jpg?v=1721231903"},{"product_id":"ao-magazine-may-jun-2024","title":"AO Magazine - May Jun 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eAncient Origins Magazine proudly presents its 50th milestone issue, a compendium of unique articles and in-depth investigation drawn from our extensive archives. This commemorative edition reflects our enduring commitment to exploring the complexities of bygone eras through rigorous research and expert analysis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpanning a wide spectrum of topics, including Maya mythology, divinely inspired monuments, and even some of our previously unknown hominid ancestors, each article offers a meticulous examination of pivotal historical phenomena. Furthermore, this edition discusses the enduring popularity of football, tracing its rich 2,000-year history. We also analyse the contentious realm of contemporary graffiti, uncovering the value and insights embedded within historic markings which can help us approach these matters in a new light.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeading the charge in this issue are exclusive interviews with renowned figures such as Dr. Roberto Volterri, Elizabeth Semmelhack, and Ms. Jayshree Mungur. These insightful conversations delve into a myriad of subjects, ranging from contemporary efforts to reconstruct the enigmatic Baghdad Battery, to the extensive array of artifacts showcased at the Bata Shoe Museum, and even the captivating story of the extinct Dodo of Mauritius.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn celebration of our 50th Issue Special Edition, we decided to offer our readers the chance to win one of three timeless ancient board games from the Ancient Origins Store. Additionally, for those new to Ancient Origins, we included the story of our journey from humble beginnings to the present day. Thank you for your continued support in unraveling the mysteries of the past.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ancient Origins Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49073009230163,"sku":"MAG00050","price":4.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/files\/AoMag50-600.jpg?v=1721231865"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/5633\/7855\/collections\/magazines_4472_x_4472.jpg?v=1625564656","url":"https:\/\/shop.ancient-origins.net\/en-nz\/collections\/ancient-origins-magazine.oembed?page=4","provider":"Ancient Origins","version":"1.0","type":"link"}