Stories - Atlas Obscura

Found: Foxes Stealing Shoes in Japan

And they would have gotten away with 40 pairs, if it weren't for the police.

You Can Now Pre-Order the Atlas Obscura Kids' Book!

Our newest title will officially be released in September.

Where Are Europe's Last Fairytale Forests?

Mapping the oldest and least-disturbed tracts of trees is easier said than done.

Finding the Hidden Mountains Beneath Antarctica's Ice

How researchers revealed the continent's undiscovered topography.

How a Jesus-Shaped Cake Incurred the Wrath of Argentina

The dessert, which was part of an art exhibit, caused an uproar when a politician had a slice.

Dispatches From Inside a Record-Breaking Bird Migration

What it's like to find yourself among 721,620 warblers, all in a hurry.

Found: Evidence of Italy's Oldest Olive Oil

It was discovered on shards of pottery uncovered 20 years ago.

children's literature

For Sale: A Winsome Map Showing the Way to Pooh Corner

Explore the "100 Aker Wood" for only $200,000.

Europe's Oldest Tree Lives in Italy

At least, it's the oldest that's been scientifically dated.

The Vermont Town That Has Way Too Many Organs

After decades of organ donation, Brattleboro is looking for new homes for old musical instruments.

What Was the Point of Elevator Music?

Contrary to popular belief, it wasn't because lifts were terrifying.

corning museum of glass

How Corning, New York, Changed the World With Glass

In the late 1860s, a barge helped the "Crystal City" usher in a new era of innovation.

Aquatic Adventures Along the Coast of Northwest Florida

How to spend three obscure days exploring Pensacola.

Meet the 'Citrus Archaeologist' Who Rediscovered Dozens of Ancient Plants

Paolo Galeotti unearthed the citruses at Florence's Villa di Castello gardens, which belonged to the Medicis.

Why Genetics Researchers Are Looking for the Loch Ness Monster

"I don’t believe that there’s a monster, but if I’m wrong, well, that’s OK."

The Vanishing World of Neon Motel Signs

A photographer has spent decades capturing these symbols of Americana and the open road.

airplane graveyard

Where Airplanes Go When They Die

Under the right circumstances, it's possible to visit an aviation boneyard.

The Fabulous Food Hats of Maor Zabar

Now you can wear hot dogs, pizza, and sushi on your head.