Topic

Geography & Places

A collection of 99 issues

Dialing the Divine: The Curious Case of Vatican City's Unused Country Code

Vatican City was assigned the international dialing code +379 but never implemented it. For practical reasons, the world's smallest state is integrated into Italy's telephone network, using the country code +39 followed by Rome's area code, making its numbers indistinguishable from local ones.

From Tsunami Debris to Canadian Tour Boat: The Incredible Journey of the Hamayuri

A Japanese fisherman's boat, lost in the 2011 tsunami, drifted across the Pacific. Found in Canada, it was repurposed for bear-watching tours. Years later, the original owner was identified and flown from Japan for an emotional reunion with his resilient vessel.

Europe's Hidden Buddhist Republic: The Incredible Story of Kalmykia

Discover Kalmykia, Russia's autonomous republic and Europe's only Buddhist-majority region. Learn about its Mongol origins, tragic Soviet-era deportations, and the remarkable post-communist revival of its unique culture and faith on the vast European steppe.

Edinburgh's Enduring Enigma: The Tiny Coffins of Arthur's Seat

In 1836, 17 miniature coffins containing tiny dolls were found in a cave on Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh. Their purpose remains a mystery, with theories ranging from witchcraft to a memorial for Burke and Hare's victims. In 2014, a mysterious 18th coffin was sent to the museum.

Uncorking Portugal: The Surprising Story of the World's Cork Superpower

Did you know Portugal is the world's cork capital? It produces over half the global supply from its vast cork oak forests. This renewable industry is a model of sustainability, with applications extending far beyond wine stoppers, from fashion to aerospace.