7. A ransom of 1,400 pounds of silver once had to be paid for Julius Caesar
What’s even more astonishing is that Caesar himself had his captors raise the ransom fee, because he thought he was worth more than they wanted for him. While he waited for the Romans to raise the 3,400 pounds of silver, he played games with his captors, read poems to them, sang songs and treated them as his subjects. After he was released, he gathered a fleet of ships, attacked the island where he was held hostage and had the pirates executed. He also took all of their treasures.
8. The Philippines are home to a “matryoshka” lake
Lake Taal is one of the most unique places on Earth – it’s located on the island of Luzon, but there’s another volcanic island with its own lake located within its confines. This means that there’s an island in a lake located on the island in the lake on the island!
9. This bird is eaten in France whole with one’s head covered in a napkin
The ortolan bunting is a small singing bird. The French feed it with nothing but figs for a month. It’s then drowned in brandy and fried as a whole piece on a strong fire for several minutes. It’s also customary to cover your head with a napkin when eating this bird. Some say that it’s to enjoy the bird’s aroma while you’re eating it, but others say that it’s supposed to hide you from God as you eat such a wonderful creature.
10. The Tower of London has a full-time Ravenmaster
Ravens have a symbolic meaning for Great Britain, so they’re actually on the supply of the state. That’s why the Tower of London employs a Ravenmaster who’s responsible for feeding the birds and protecting them from danger. The current Ravenmaster makes $31,900 per year.
11. A smoke alarm for the deaf has been developed in Japan
A fire alarm that emits the smell of wasabi instead of sound has been designed in Japan. It works by emitting a mist when the sensor is triggered. This is extremely helpful for deaf individuals who are unable to hear the sound of the alarm.
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