With the vast availability of Ebooks and audiobooks, reading from a physical book is becoming more and more uncommon. New technology has allowed us to have access to millions of books at our fingertips.
But, there is still something special about stepping foot inside of a library — a place that has helped mold some of our world’s greatest minds.
Did you know the world’s oldest operating library was founded in the 6th century?
The Library at Saint Catherine’s Monastery, located in Egypt, holds a collection of early scrolls and manuscripts that are centuries old. And, there are many other libraries that hold priceless books that are an integral part of world history.
“It’s funny that we think of libraries as quiet demure places where we are shushed by dusty, bun-balancing, bespectacled women. The truth is libraries are raucous clubhouses for free speech, controversy and community. Librarians have stood up to the Patriot Act, sat down with noisy toddlers and reached out to illiterate adults. Libraries can never be shushed. ”
— Paula Poundstone
Oldest recently published a guide to the most amazing public libraries that are invaluable to world history, which house millions of items in their collections.
From the Middle East to western Europe, check out more about the historic libraries that share stories from our world’s past in the infographic below!
Lindsay Shapka is an avid traveler and the creator of The Anthrotorian — a website dedicated to sharing travel tips, stories about adventures, culture quirks, artists you should know, fascinating bits of history, and more!
She is also an artist, marketing specialist, editor, and freelance writer who has work featured on websites, blogs, and in magazines like National Geographic Traveler.
Are you in the mood for a spring or autumn polar dip? Looking for a nice cold swim after a long summer hike? Or were you just hoping to dip your feet into crisp glacier water?
Despite being fed by glaciers and icy cold, these crystal clear lakes are the perfect places to cool off on a hot summer day in the mountains. In Jasper — a mountain town in the Rocky Mountains in Canada — temperatures can head well above 30°C (86°F) in the summer.
If the last few years of travel has taught us anything, it is that airports are busier than ever, and both they, and the airlines, are struggling to keep up with the demand.
Throughout the recent summer and holiday seasons, we were bombarded with images and videos of stacks of lost luggage left in airports all over the world. If you are anything like me, it has made checking a bag seem like a risk that I am not willing to take — especially if I am going for a short trip and don’t want to be without my clothing, etc. for even a day.
I am always surprised at the power of language — especially when a short sentence or quip completely changes my perspective, sets me on a new path, or inspires an adventure.
Hopefully one of these modern travel-inspired quotes inspires you!
The Anthrotorian has officially been around for more than a decade — since 2012, I have been writing about travel, culture, art, and history on this website. To celebrate this landmark birthday, I published a book, It’s Rude to Keep an Adventure Waiting: Travel Advice, Tips, and Tricks.
Passing a slow moving car would have been a suicide mission.
The small, 13-seater bus was stuffy, hot, and full of fellow travelers half asleep from the heat and half sick from the drive. Gritty red sand, mixed with the sweat in my sandals, smooshed between my toes.
From the lush landscapes of fantasy epics to bustling city streets featured in iconic dramas, set-jetting allows you to step into the world of your favorite characters.
What is set-jetting?
Set-jetting is the trend of visiting destinations made famous by movies and TV series, and it is capturing the imagination of travelers worldwide.
It is officially 2025, and we are all gearing up for fresh adventures and exciting new experiences.
Whether you're looking for travel ideas, insight on the best way to travel in 2025, or simply need practical travel tips, these travel trends promise to make your trips unforgettable. So, pack your bags, and let’s dive into the top travel trends of 2025!
Planning to explore the cobblestone streets of Italy, the fjords of Norway, or the bustling markets of Paris this year?
Starting in May 2025, the European Union will implement the new Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) that will affect all non-EU travelers.
Here’s what you need to know to ensure your European adventure goes off without a hitch.
Tourists make the perfect mark for a scam artist. We are disoriented, don't know the language, are wide eyed, and are distracted by the new world that we have found ourselves in.
I have been approached by people all over the world who, while they seem kind, are actually out to relieve me of my wallet or other valuables.
If the last few years of travel has taught us anything, it is that airports are busier than ever, and both they, and the airlines, are struggling to keep up with the demand.
Throughout the recent summer and holiday seasons, we were bombarded with images and videos of stacks of lost luggage left in airports all over the world. If you are anything like me, it has made checking a bag seem like a risk that I am not willing to take — especially if I am going for a short trip and don’t want to be without my clothing, etc. for even a day.