Secret societies have long captured the imagination of people worldwide, shrouded in mystery and intrigue. These enigmatic groups have left an indelible mark on history, from ancient rituals to modern-day clandestine gatherings. Prepare to have your mind blown as we delve into 20 fascinating facts about secret societies that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew.

The Illuminati’s Secret Symbolism

Did you know that the iconic pyramid with the all-seeing eye featured on the back of the U.S. one-dollar bill is believed by some to be a nod to the infamous Illuminati? This secret society, rumored to have roots dating back to the 18th century, is shrouded in mystery and conspiracy theories, with many speculating about its influence on global affairs.

Freemasonry’s Famous Members

Countless historical influential figures have been associated with Freemasonry, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Winston Churchill. This secretive fraternal organization is renowned for its rituals, symbols, and charitable endeavors, yet its inner workings remain closely guarded secrets.

The Skull and Bones Society

Nestled within the hallowed halls of Yale University lies the enigmatic Skull and Bones society, whose members are drawn from the university’s elite ranks. From presidents to captains of industry, this clandestine brotherhood boasts an impressive roster of alums, fueling speculation about its influence on American politics and beyond.

The Bohemian Grove Rituals

Every summer, the Bohemian Grove retreat in California plays host to an exclusive gathering of the world’s most powerful men, who convene beneath the towering redwoods for secretive rituals and discussions. Critics decry the lack of transparency surrounding these gatherings, fueling conspiracy theories about their true purpose and influence.

Closed-door Meetings by the Bilderberg Group

The Bilderberg Group, an annual conference attended by a select group of political leaders, financiers, and influential figures, has long been the subject of speculation and scrutiny. Critics argue that the closed-door nature of these meetings fosters a climate of secrecy and elite collusion, while proponents maintain that they serve as forums for constructive dialogue and cooperation.

Opus Dei’s Influence on the Catholic Church

Opus Dei, a secretive Catholic organization founded in Spain in the 1920s, has drawn both praise and criticism for its conservative stance and secretive practices. Opus Dei’s reach extends far beyond its humble origins, with members spanning the globe and holding positions of influence within the church hierarchy.

The Rosicrucian Mysteries

Dating back to the early 17th century, the Rosicrucian Order has fascinated seekers of esoteric knowledge with its cryptic teachings and symbols. Believed by some to possess hidden wisdom and occult powers, the Rosicrucians continue to inspire curiosity and speculation to this day.

The Knights Templar’s Lost Treasure

Legends of the Knights Templar abound, from their purported guardianship of the Holy Grail to their alleged involvement in secret rituals and mysteries. Yet perhaps most tantalizing of all is the enduring myth of their lost treasure, said to hold unimaginable wealth and power.

Nazi Occultism’s Link to the Thule Society

The Thule Society, a German occult group founded in the early 20th century, played a significant role in the rise of Nazism and the esoteric beliefs that underpinned it. From their fascination with ancient Aryan myths to their influence on prominent Nazi leaders, the Thule Society’s legacy continues to cast a long shadow.

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn

Founded in the late 19th century, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn attracted diverse members, from renowned occultists to literary giants like W.B. Yeats and Aleister Crowley. With its elaborate rituals and teachings drawn from various mystical traditions, the Golden Dawn remains a touchstone for modern practitioners of the occult.

Welcome to the wonderful world of cheese! You’re about to meet the grandmasters of age, the ancient ones, the cheeses that have been around the block (or cave) more times than we can count. On this dairy-laden journey, we rank the world’s oldest cheeses. Grab a cracker or two; this is going to get tasty and historical.

Feta-Compli

Starting our list is the briny, tangy delight known as Feta. Hailing from Greece, this crumbly sensation has been around since the 8th century B.C. Yes, Plato could have been munching on Feta while pondering the forms. It’s as essential to Greek cuisine as olive oil, and for good reason—it’s delicious.

Gouda Vibes Only

Gouda is not just a fun word to say but also one of the world’s most beloved cheeses. Its roots go back to 1184 in the Netherlands. This semi-hard cheese is as rich in history as it is in flavor and is known for its buttery, nutty taste and smooth texture. It’s like eating a piece of history, except tastier.

Cheddar Gets Better

Cheddar, the cheese that has taken over the world, originated in the 12th century in a village in England—also named Cheddar. The aging process, which can range from a month to several years, makes it unique. This process gives it a depth and complexity of flavor that’s as varied as its age.

Parmesan’s Long Game

Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Parmesan as it’s affectionately known outside of Italy, has been around since the 13th century. This hard, granular cheese is a staple in Italian cuisine, known for its rich, umami-packed flavor that intensifies with age. It’s like the fine wine of cheeses.

Roquefort’s Blue Streak

Roquefort, the king of blue cheeses, has been documented back to 79 A.D. in France. Made from sheep’s milk and aged in the natural Combalou caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, this moldy marvel has a complex, sharp, and tangy flavor that has been delighting cheese lovers for centuries.

The Ancient Alpine Gruyère

Gruyère’s history stretches back to the early 12th century in Switzerland. This creamy, nutty cheese is essential for fondue and has a sweetness that becomes more pronounced with age. It’s like getting a hug from history, warm and comforting.

Manchego’s Timeless Tale

Manchego, the pride of Spain, dates back to the time of the Romans. Made from the milk of Manchega sheep, this cheese has a firm and compact consistency and a buttery texture. It’s a testament to the timeless quality of Spanish cheesemaking.

Taleggio’s Tasty Legacy

Taleggio, with its roots tracing back to the 10th century in Italy, is a soft cheese known for its strong aroma but mild and fruity flavor. This cheese proves that something can smell like old shoes but taste like heaven.

Brie’s Royal Lineage

Brie, often referred to as the “Queen of Cheeses,” has been around since the 8th century in France. Its creamy interior beneath a rind of white mold has been savored by kings and peasants alike. It’s a democratic cheese if there ever was one.

Edam’s Eternal Charm

Edam, which originated in the Netherlands in the 14th century, is known for its distinctive red wax coating. This semi-hard cheese is mild, nutty, and slightly salty, proving that sometimes, the best things in life come in the simplest packages.

Pecorino Romano’s Empire

Pecorino Romano, a hard cheese from Italy, has been fueling emperors and soldiers since Roman times. Made from sheep’s milk, it’s salty and tangy, so it’s perfect for grating over a bowl of pasta. It’s like a sprinkle of history on your dinner.

Cantal’s Quiet Revolution

Cantal cheese, dating back over 2,000 years in France, is one of the oldest cheeses in the world. This firm cheese has a mild, buttery flavor that can become sharper with age. It’s a gentle reminder of France’s deep culinary roots.

The Eternal Emmental

Last but certainly not least, Emmental. This Swiss cheese, famous for its distinctive holes, dates back to the 15th century. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor makes it a favorite in sandwiches and cheese platters worldwide. It’s like Swiss cheese because, well, it is.

Asiago’s Age-Old Artistry

Asiago cheese, with its roots nestled in the picturesque plateau of the same name in Italy, boasts a heritage that dates back over a thousand years. This versatile cheese comes in both fresh and aged varieties, each offering a distinct flavor profile—from smooth and sweet to crumbly and sharp.

The Saga of Stilton

Stilton, the “King of English cheeses,” has been a staple since the early 18th century. This blue cheese is renowned for its rich and robust flavor, veined with blue streaks that give it a distinctive appearance and taste. Produced in only three counties in England, Stilton’s unique character and protected designation of origin (PDO) status make it a true culinary treasure.

Throughout history, countless manuscripts have been discovered that baffle researchers and historians with their undeciphered codes, languages, and purposes. These documents are puzzles from the past, shrouded in mystery and offering more questions than answers. Here are 15 of the world’s most enigmatic manuscripts, each a testament to human curiosity and the enduring quest for knowledge.

The Voynich Manuscript

Dating back to the 15th century, this manuscript is filled with unknown symbols, illustrations of nonexistent plants, and celestial diagrams. Despite the efforts of the world’s best cryptographers, its language and purpose remain a mystery.

The Rohonc Codex

Found in Hungary in the 19th century, this codex contains a mysterious script and religious illustrations mixing Christian, Hindu, and Islamic symbols. Its origin, language, and the story it tells are still undeciphered.

The Beale Ciphers

A set of three cipher texts that allegedly reveal the location of one of the largest buried treasures in U.S. history. Only one of the ciphers has been cracked, revealing the treasure’s general location in Virginia, but the other two remain unsolved.

The Book of Soyga

Also known as “Aldaraia,” this 16th-century book on magic and astrology was studied by John Dee, an advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. It contains mysterious tables that no one has been able to decipher.

The Ripley Scrolls

Named after the 15th-century alchemist George Ripley, these scrolls depict complex alchemical processes in symbolic imagery. The full understanding of their meanings and instructions for creating the philosopher’s stone remains elusive.

The Codex Seraphinianus

Created in the 1970s by Italian artist Luigi Serafini, this modern manuscript is written in an imaginary language. It illustrates a surreal world that defies the laws of nature, bridging the gap between art and cipher.

The Popol Vuh

The sacred book of the Maya contains mythological stories and a history of the kings of the Quiché Maya people. While much of it has been translated, some sections remain puzzling due to lost cultural knowledge and symbolism.

The Dresden Codex

One of the few surviving Maya codices, this pre-Columbian book is filled with astronomical tables and predictions. Despite extensive studies, some of its tables and references to Maya gods and rituals are still not fully understood.

The Smithfield Decretals

A medieval manuscript with bizarre and often humorous marginalia depicting animals, hybrid creatures, and scenes of daily medieval life. The reasons behind these illustrations and their connection to the text’s legal decrees are still debated.

The Zohar

This is the foundational work in the literature of Jewish mystical thought known as Kabbalah. Its complex discussions of the nature of God, the universe, and the soul are wrapped in an often intentionally opaque language.

The Tărtăria Tablets

Dated as far back as 5500 BCE, these tablets in Romania feature inscriptions predating known writing systems. Their significance and whether they represent a form of written communication remain unresolved.

The Dzyan Manuscripts

Claimed to be ancient texts on which Madame Blavatsky based her Theosophical teachings, including “The Secret Doctrine.” The existence of these manuscripts is unconfirmed, shrouded in occult mystery and debate.

The Copper Scroll

Part of the Dead Sea Scrolls, this scroll lists over sixty locations where gold and silver are buried. Unlike the other scrolls, which are religious texts, this is a treasure map that has yet to lead to any discoveries.

The Piri Reis Map

A world map was compiled in 1513 by the Ottoman admiral and cartographer Piri Reis. It shows parts of the Americas, Europe, and Africa with remarkable accuracy for its time, leading to speculation about its sources and knowledge of geography.

The Phaistos Disc

Discovered in Crete, this clay disc is imprinted with symbols that form a spiral of unknown meaning, dating back to the second millennium BCE. Attempts to decode it have generated many theories but no consensus, leaving its message a secret held for centuries.