Stories - Atlas Obscura

You Can Still Die From World War I Dangers in France's Red Zones

The Great War never ended in some old battlegrounds.

Wild Life: Synchronized Coral Spawning

In a preview of our new book, we watch the world’s largest living structure renews itself in nights of moonlit passion.

The Mystery of Uruguay's Ferocious, All-Female Cannibal Insects

The small-winged stick mantis is found throughout South America's grasslands. But in Uruguay, the population is entirely female.

delicious diaspora

This Tiny Restaurant Helps Keep Kashmiri Cuisine Alive in Pakistan

The Dilbar Hotel has been a hub and haven for Kashmiri Muslims since 1950.

James Bond’s Jetpack Escape in ‘Thunderball’ Almost Didn’t Happen

At least not as initially planned.

World-Competitive Escape Rooms Are Darker, Scarier, and More Scientific

Are you an explorer or a killer?

Japanese Green Tea Once Fueled the Midwest

It's a forgotten moment in American beverage history.

Wonder Is Everywhere: the World’s Longest Snake, Disappearing Meteorites, and More From Around the Web

Get a peek into what we’re obsessed with right now.

Podcast: Killer Trees with Mary Roach

Danger trees meet explosives.

insane asylum cemeteries

Porcelain Gallbladder Found in Human Remains in Mississippi Asylum Cemetery

A rare secret was taken to the grave in an unmarked, 100-year-old burial ground.

Meet the Giant Salmon With a Weaponized Mustache

Spike-toothed salmon grew nearly nine feet long and sported tusk-like teeth.

Podcast: Oh, the Places You Will Go... to See These Notable Trees

Celebrity trees can leave a deep-rooted impression.

White Rice Is Bland? These Japanese Researchers Beg to Differ

Japan's food world is eagerly awaiting an upcoming "flavor dictionary."

Turn Your Garden Into an 'Ark of Taste' for Nearly Lost Plants

Slow Food’s annual "Plant a Seed Kit" encourages home-gardeners to cultivate rare and endangered crops.

Podcast: Tree Week Love Letters

Can trees write back?

citizen science

You've Heard of Cicadas, But Have You Heard of the Magicicada?

Cicada scientists share the secrets of this spring's rare double brood emergence. The last time it happened, Thomas Jefferson was president.

Meat-Filled Desserts From Around the World

Have you tried any of these literal sweetmeats?

Where to Find Budget-Friendly Bites in Denver

Explore Denver’s vibrant food scene without breaking the bank.