World Time
(double click to view/release world time)
Did You Know?
The most visited tourist destinations in the U.S. span from natural wonders to quirky roadside attractions, below are the cities that consistently draw big crowds; each of these cities
offers its own unique charm for their culture, attractions, food, history, nightlife, nature and all-around vibe.
New York City, NY – The ultimate urban playground, from Broadway to Central Park to world-class museums and food from every corner of the globe.
Washington, D.C. – A history buff’s dream with iconic monuments, Smithsonian museums, and charming neighborhoods like Georgetown.
San Diego, CA – Sunshine, beaches, and a laid-back vibe with top-notch attractions like the San Diego Zoo.
Chicago, IL – Architecture tours, deep-dish pizza, and Lake Michigan views make this Midwest gem a must-see.
New Orleans, LA – Jazz, Creole cuisine, and a culture all its own—especially during Mardi Gras.
San Francisco, CA – Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and cable cars—plus a thriving food and tech scene.
Miami, FL – Art Deco flair, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches draw millions every year.
Orlando, FL – Theme park capital of the world, home to Disney World and Universal Studios.
Las Vegas, NV – Entertainment central with casinos, shows, and nearby natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon.
Europe is packed with incredible tourist destinations! Below are top tourist places in Europe.
Eiffel Tower (Paris, France) – One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower, located on Avenue Gustave Eiffel, stands at 330 meters high, this 19th-century masterpiece offers breathtaking views of Paris.
Colosseum (Rome, Italy) – An awe-inspiring ancient amphitheater, the Colosseum, located at Piazza del Colosseo, is an awe-inspiring ancient Roman amphitheater, famous for its gladiatorial battles!
Stonehenge, England - Stonehenge is one of the most iconic prehistoric landmarks in the world! Located in Salisbury, United Kingdom, this ancient stone circle has fascinated historians and visitors alike.
Louvre Museum, France - The Louvre Museum in Paris is a world-famous art museum, home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo; this landmark museum boasts a vast collection spanning centuries of artistic history.
Venice Canals, Italy - The Venice Canal Historic District is a stunning man-made canal system with adjacent walkways, offering a picturesque and historic experience; it is recognized as a historical landmark, strolling
along these canals is a fantastic way to soak in the charm of Venice.
Europe Square (Batumi, Georgia) – A beautiful historical site with stunning architecture, Europe Square in Batumi, Georgia, is a stunning tourist attraction located at 29 Memed Abashidze Ave; the square is known for
its beautiful architecture, lively atmosphere, and historical significance.
Площад Европа / Europe Square (Vidin, Bulgaria) – A charming square with cultural significance, Europe Square in Vidin, Bulgaria, known locally as Площад Европа, is a charming tourist attraction located
at ul. "Gradinska" 11-22; making it a hidden gem in the city, this square holds cultural significance.
Amalfi Coast (Italy) – Famous for its breathtaking coastal views and charming towns, the Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking scenic spot in the Province of Salerno, Italy, known for its picturesque coastline and steep cliffs;
it's one of Italy’s most stunning destinations.
Northern-most point of Europe and Eurasia (Russia) – A unique destination for adventurous travelers, the Northern-most point of Europe and Eurasia is located in Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia; this tourist attraction
is often described as "the top of Mother Russia and Europe"; it’s a unique destination for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the farthest reaches of the continent.
Archaeological Park of Pompeii (Italy) – A fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii is a fascinating archaeological museum in Pompei, Italy, offering a glimpse into ancient Roman life;
this historic site was preserved by volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius, making it one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world.
Acropolis of Athens (Greece) – A stunning historic site with incredible views, this 5th-century B.C. hilltop temple monument is a breathtaking historical landmark in Greece, featuring iconic ancient ruins.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic - The Prague Castle is a magnificent castle complex dating back to the 9th century, making it one of the most historically significant landmarks in the Czech Republic; located in Prague 1, Czechia.
this stunning site is home to breathtaking architecture, royal history, and incredible views of the city.
Duomo di Firenze (Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral), Florence, Italy - The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Duomo di Firenze, is a breathtaking medieval cathedral in Florence, Italy; this stunning
landmark features an iconic red dome and is located at Piazza del Duomo; Nearby, tourists can also explore Piazza del Duomo, a historic plaza surrounding the cathedral.
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, was built
by Gustave Eiffel in 1887-1889; it was officially completed on March 31, 1889.
Canada is home to approximately 62% of the world’s lakes, with an estimated 879,800 lakes measuring at least 0.1 square kilometers. Of these, 561 have a surface area larger than 100 square kilometers,
including four of the five Great Lakes—Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—which Canada shares with the United States. This immense freshwater wealth makes Canada the country with the largest number of
lakes globally, contributing significantly to its diverse ecosystems and natural beauty.
Wrangell–St. Elias is the largest national park in the United States, covering 13.2 million acres in southeastern Alaska. It stretches from the Gulf of Alaska’s coastal tidewaters to the towering summit of Mount St. Elias,
which rises to 18,008 feet, making it the second-highest peak in both the U.S. and Canada. The park’s vast landscape includes glaciers, rugged mountains, and remote wilderness, offering a dramatic sweep from sea to summit
unmatched anywhere else in North America.
In 2025, visitors can enjoy free admission to U.S. national parks on six designated fee-free days: January 20 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day), April 19 (the first day of National Park Week), June 19 (Juneteenth National Independence Day),
August 4 (the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act), September 27 (National Public Lands Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). While entrance fees are waived on these dates, other costs such as camping, tours, or special
activities may still apply.
The New York Subway is one of the largest public transportation systems that include underground, elevated, open cut,
at-grade, and embankment stations in the world by number of stations, with 472 stations in operation and 665
miles of track and delivered over 2.04 billion rides in 2024, its first underground station was opened in 1904, and around 40% of its stations is above ground.
In the U.S. beginning October 1, 2020, every American air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license,
state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States; REAL ID-compliant cards
are marked with a star at the top of the card. As of 2/2020, 48 of the 50 states
are presently issuing REAL IDs, nearly 100,000,000 Americans already have REAL IDs. Some two-thirds of the existing US state driver's licenses are not compliant with a post-9/11 security law set to go into affect on
October 1. Those who are not compliant will not be able to fly if they don't have other forms
of REAL ID-compliant identification.
Twin Farms, a late-1700s stone, pine, maple, and brick farmhouse and lodge (20 rooms) in
Barnard, VT, is used to be the home of Sinclair Lewis, who is the first
writer from the United States to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1930.
New York City served as the capital of the United States from 1785 to 1790, before it was moved to Philadelphia and then Washington D.C.
George Washington, the first President of the United States, was inaugurated in New York in 1789 at the site of Federal Hall.
Atlanta, Georgia blends rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. comes to life at his birth home and the inspiring Martin Luther King,
Jr. National Historical Park. The city’s pivotal role in the civil rights movement is further explored at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Iconic attractions such as the World of Coca-Cola
and the Georgia Aquarium—one of the largest in the world—offer engaging and immersive experiences. The Atlanta Botanical Garden showcases stunning horticultural displays, while nearby Piedmont Park provides
a peaceful urban retreat. The Atlanta History Center offers a deep look into the region’s past, complemented by the historic Margaret Mitchell House, where the famed author wrote Gone with the Wind. With
its dynamic mix of heritage, natural beauty, and pop culture, Atlanta presents a compelling destination for travelers of all interests.
Atlanta, Georgia is home to The Varsity, the world’s largest drive-in restaurant. Opened in 1928, this iconic eatery spans two city blocks and can accommodate 600 cars outside and over 800 diners inside.
Every day, The Varsity prepares an astonishing two miles of hot dogs, 2,500 pounds of potatoes, 5,000 fried pies, and 300 gallons of chili—all made from scratch.
Atlanta is the fifth city to be the capital of the U.S. state of Georgia; its
capital included Savannah (1776-1778), Augusta (1778-1796),
Louisville (1796-1870), Milledgeville (1807-1868), and
Atlanta since 1868. The Georgia Capitol Dome located in Atlanta is one of 10 state capitol domes that is covered in
gold leaf layered in 43 ounces of pure gold.Atlanta is the only city in North America destroyed by a fire as an act of war during the American civil war.
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. As of 2024, it ranks third globally in aircraft operations and third in passenger traffic, serving over 87
million travelers annually. Spanning more than 17,000 acres, DFW is the second-largest airport in the United States by land area, larger than the island of Manhattan. It serves as the primary hub for American Airlines,
which is headquartered nearby, and offers nonstop service to 269 destinations—196 domestic and 73 international—through 29 passenger airlines. DFW is also recognized as the largest carbon-neutral airport in the world and
the first in North America to achieve that status.
In 2024, Americans took approximately 2.06 billion domestic leisure trips and over 405 million business trips, reflecting a strong rebound in travel compared to previous years. Leisure travel saw continued growth,
driven by trends like road trips, short getaways, and multi-generational vacations, with 93% of Americans planning to travel within six months. Business travel recovered to about 95% of 2019 levels, fueled by a resurgence
in in-person meetings and the rise of “bleisure” travel, where 50% of business travelers combined work with leisure. These figures highlight a vibrant and resilient U.S. travel landscape, with Americans actively engaging
in both personal and professional journeys.
Between 2014 and 2024, the U.S. population grew by about 21.7 million, from 318.4 million to 340.1 million. While both births and immigration contributed to this growth, immigration became the leading driver in
recent years due to declining birth rates and an aging population. Since 2021, most of the increase has come from net international migration, with around 9.3 million immigrants arriving between 2022 and 2024—mainly
from Latin America and Asia, including Mexico, India, and China.
In 2024, international travel by U.S. citizens reached a record-breaking 107.7 million trips, marking a 9.2% increase from 2023 and surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 99.7 million in 2019. This surge reflects
a strong rebound in outbound tourism, fueled by rising consumer confidence, a robust labor market, and relaxed travel restrictions. December 2024 stood out as one of the busiest months, with over 10 million
outbound trips—a 7.7% increase from the previous year—while February likely remained the least busy month, consistent with historical trends. Top destinations included Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe,
highlighting Americans’ renewed enthusiasm for international travel.
In 2024, the top 10 U.S. airlines by number of passengers carried were led by American Airlines, which transported approximately 226.4 million passengers, followed by Delta Air Lines with 200 million,
and Southwest Airlines with 175.5 million. United Airlines ranked fourth with 173.6 million passengers, while Alaska Airlines carried 49.2 million. The rest of the top 10 included Spirit Airlines (44.2 million),
JetBlue Airways (40.5 million), Frontier Airlines (33.3 million), Allegiant Air (16.8 million), and Hawaiian Airlines, which rounded out the list with just under 11 million passengers. This marks a significant
increase from 2014, when the top three—Southwest, Delta, and American—carried 126.7 million, 106.2 million, and 66.4 million passengers respectively. The 2024 figures reflect the continued recovery and expansion
of the U.S. airline industry post-pandemic, with most major carriers surpassing their pre-2020 levels.
In 2024, international air travel to the United States continued its strong rebound, with John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York City once again leading the nation in international arrivals.
JFK handled approximately 23.6 million international passengers, followed closely by Miami International Airport (MIA) with 25.2 million, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with 24.0 million.
These figures represent a significant increase compared to 2014, when JFK, MIA, and LAX received 13.6 million, 9.6 million, and 8.9 million international passengers, respectively. In total, more than 30 U.S.
airports welcomed over 1 million international passengers in 2024, reflecting the continued growth and diversification of international air gateways across the country.
In 1816, Baltimore became the first American city to demonstrate the use of gas lighting, revolutionizing urban illumination. The breakthrough came when artist and inventor Rembrandt Peale lit his Baltimore Museum
with manufactured gas, dazzling civic leaders and investors. This led to the formation of the Gas Light Company of Baltimore, the first commercial gas utility in the United States. On February 7, 1817, the city lit
its first public gas street lamp at the corner of Market (now East Baltimore Street) and Lemon (now North Holliday Street), marking the beginning of widespread gas street lighting in America.
Vatican City, a walled enclave entirely surrounded by the city of Rome, is the smallest sovereign state in the world by both area and population. It covers approximately 44 hectares (110 acres) and
has a population of around 764 to 825 residents, depending on the source and year. Despite its tiny size, Vatican City functions as a fully independent nation with its own flag, national anthem, postal system,
license plates, and even Euro coins minted with Vatican imagery. It is also the only country in the world that is entirely designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Germany was the first country to implement Daylight Saving Time (DST) on April 30, 1916, during World War I, as a way to conserve fuel by maximizing daylight hours. At 11:00 p.m. that night, clocks were set
forward by one hour across the German Empire and its ally Austria-Hungary. This marked the first nationwide use of DST in the world, and many other countries—including the United Kingdom and later
the United States—soon followed.
Several U.S. cities stand out as top destinations for young professionals in 2025, offering a dynamic mix of job opportunities, affordability, and quality of life. Cities like Austin, TX, Boston, MA, and
Denver, CO continue to rank highly, joined by Seattle, WA, Minneapolis, MN, Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC, and San Francisco, CA, all of which boast strong job markets—particularly in tech, healthcare, and
finance—alongside vibrant cultural scenes and active lifestyles. Back in 2011, cities such as Des Moines, IA, Raleigh, NC, Madison, WI, Salt Lake City, UT, Omaha, NE, Portland, ME, Denver, CO,
Colorado Springs, CO, Washington, DC, Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN, Austin, TX, Boston, MA, Greenville, SC, Little Rock, AR, and Fairfield County, CT were recognized as America’s best cities for young professionals,
largely due to their low unemployment rates, affordable living, and high concentrations of college-educated residents. The evolution of these rankings reflects shifting economic trends, the rise of remote work,
and the growing importance of lifestyle amenities in choosing where to launch a career.
Alaska is so vast that it could hold the 21 smallest U.S. states combined. With a total area of approximately 665,384 square miles, it surpasses the combined area of states like Rhode Island, Delaware,
Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Maryland, West Virginia, South Carolina, Maine, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Louisiana,
and Alabama, which together total around 626,000 square miles. In fact, Alaska is more than twice the size of Texas, the second-largest state, and if overlaid on the continental U.S., it would stretch
from California to Florida and from Canada to Mexico—making it a truly staggering geographic giant.
In 2024, Times Square in New York City, the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada, and the National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C. remained among the most visited tourist destinations in the United States.
Times Square continued to draw tens of millions of visitors annually with its dazzling lights and entertainment. The Las Vegas Strip attracted global travelers with its world-class resorts, casinos, and nightlife.
Meanwhile, the National Mall in Washington, D.C., with its iconic monuments and Smithsonian museums, remained a top destination for both domestic and international tourists. These locations consistently
rank at the top due to their cultural significance, entertainment value, and iconic status.
The Eiffel Tower, an enduring symbol of Paris and a marvel of 19th-century engineering, is held together by approximately 2.5 million rivets, each installed by teams of four workers during its original
construction. While the total number of steps from the ground to the top is often cited as 1,792, only 674 steps are accessible to the public today. The tower is operated and maintained by a dedicated team
of around 250 to 300 employees, including maintenance crews, security personnel, elevator operators, and administrative staff. In 2024, the Eiffel Tower welcomed approximately 6.3 million visitors,
generating over €121 million in revenue and operating on a budget of roughly €127 million.
Spain captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and effortless style—making it one of Europe’s top destinations. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 138 million international visitors,
drawn to its iconic landmarks and diverse experiences. Among the most visited sites were Barcelona’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell, which together attracted millions of tourists eager to admire Gaudí's
architectural masterpieces. In Granada, the Alhambra set a new record with 2.72 million visitors, reaffirming its status as Andalusia’s most visited monument. Meanwhile, Madrid’s Museo del Prado broke
attendance records with 3.46 million guests, solidifying its place as one of the world’s premier art museums. Whether basking on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, dancing to flamenco in Seville, or
savoring tapas in lively plazas, travelers continue to be drawn to Spain’s warm hospitality, artistic spirit, and sun-drenched beauty.
In Germany, the polite way to get someone’s attention—such as a waiter—is by making eye contact and gently raising a hand. While snapping fingers isn’t against the law, it’s widely viewed as
disrespectful and should be avoided as a matter of courtesy and cultural sensitivity.
In the U.K., questions like “Where are you going?” or “Have you eaten?”—particularly when asked without context or to someone not well-acquainted—can be seen as overly personal or intrusive.
While not outright rude, such inquiries may feel out of place in casual British conversation, where a greater emphasis is often placed on privacy and subtlety in social interactions.
When visiting Scotland, respect for local customs and environmental laws is essential. Taking natural items like stones, shells, or sea glass—especially from beaches, protected areas, or
heritage sites—is strongly discouraged and often illegal under the Coastal Protection Act of 1949. Removing materials from Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) or National Nature Reserves
without permission can result in prosecution, as these laws help protect Scotland’s fragile ecosystems and natural beauty.
When visiting Hungary, it’s best to focus on genuine cultural etiquette: remove your shoes when entering a home, bring a small gift if invited, avoid loud behavior or pointing with your
index finger, and use polite greetings and formal titles unless invited to be informal. Respecting these customs goes much further than worrying about superstitions like mirrors.
In France, it's best to avoid giving chrysanthemums or yellow flowers when visiting someone’s home. Chrysanthemums are strongly associated with death and mourning and are traditionally
placed on graves during All Saints’ Day (La Toussaint) on November 1st. Offering them as a gift can unintentionally convey sorrow or grief. Similarly, yellow flowers—especially yellow roses
or carnations—can symbolize infidelity or rejection, making them an awkward or inappropriate choice in social settings. When bringing flowers to a host, opt for tasteful alternatives like lilies,
tulips, or hydrangeas, and always present them in odd numbers, as even numbers are typically reserved for funerals.
In Italy, giving a handkerchief as a gift is traditionally seen as bad luck, symbolizing tears, sorrow, and farewells—associations rooted in mourning customs. To counter the superstition,
it’s customary for the recipient to "buy" the handkerchief by offering a small coin, transforming the gift into a symbolic transaction rather than a token of parting. This belief reflects a broader
Italian sensitivity to symbolism in gift-giving, where certain items—like knives, brooches, or purple flowers—are also avoided due to their negative connotations. When choosing a gift in Italy,
meaning and thoughtfulness matter. Wine, artisanal foods, fresh flowers (excluding chrysanthemums), and high-quality local crafts are warmly received. Ultimately, a good gift reflects respect,
personal connection, and genuine appreciation—values at the heart of Italian hospitality.
When visiting Russia, observing local customs shows respect and cultural awareness. Bring a small gift—like chocolates, wine, or flowers in odd numbers—when invited to someone’s home, and
remove your shoes at the door, as hosts usually provide slippers. Avoid shaking hands across a threshold, and use formal titles with eye contact, but don’t overuse smiles with strangers.
Dress modestly in churches, with women covering their heads and men removing hats. Don’t whistle indoors (it’s seen as bad luck), and steer clear of political topics unless among close friends.
At meals, wait for the host to start or say “приятного аппетита,” keep hands visible (not elbows),
and join in toasts—vodka is traditional, but wine or juice is fine. Even a small taste of food offered is a sign of good manners. These simple gestures reflect genuine respect for Russian hospitality.
When visiting the United States, understanding a few key customs helps navigate social situations with ease. Greetings are usually casual but polite—a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile.
Americans quickly use first names and value personal space, so avoid standing too close. Tipping is expected: 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and small amounts for hotel or taxi staff.
Small talk about weather, sports, or travel is common, while personal questions are best avoided. Punctuality matters, especially for business. When visiting a home, follow the host’s lead on shoes
and consider bringing a small gift like wine or dessert. Compliments on the home or meal are appreciated. Americans value individualism and open discussion but expect orderly queuing—cutting in line is rude.
Public affection is generally acceptable, though formal settings call for modesty.
The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
The Great Pyramid of Giza -
The great pyramid is believed to have been built over a 20 year period. The site was first prepared, and blocks of stone were transported and placed.
An outer casing (which disappeared over the years) was then used to smooth the surface. When it was built, the Great pyramid was 145.75 m (481 ft) high. Over the years, it lost 10 m (30 ft) off its top.
It ranked as the tallest structure on Earth for more than 43 centuries, only to be surpassed in height in the nineteenth
century AD. It was covered with a casing of stones to smooth its surface.
Nebuchadnezzar II, must have been a wonder to the traveler's eyes. How big were the gardens? Diodorus tells us it was about 400 feet wide by 400 feet long and more than 80 feet high.
It wasn't until the twentieth century that some of the mysteries surrounding the Hanging Gardens were revealed. Archaeologists are still struggling to gather enough evidence before reaching the final conclusions about the location of the Gardens, their irrigation system, and their true appearance.
The Statue of Zeus at Olympia Greece -
Created in about 450 BC by the renowned Greek sculptor Phidias, the statue of the Greek God Zeus at Olympia was one of the world's greatest statues. Zeus's seated figure was 50 feet high. His body was ivory and
his robe, hair and beard, gold. Zeus's outstretched right hand held a small statue of Nike, the goddess of victory. Olympia was struck by earthquakes, landslides and floods, and the temple was damaged by fire in the fifth century AD.
Today nothing remains at the site of the old
temple except rocks and debris, the foundation of the buildings, and fallen columns.
located in Greek city of Ephesus, was built around 550 BC. Referred to as the great marble temple, it was sponsored by the Lydian king Croesus and was designed by the Greek architect Chersiphron.
The Temple had a marble sanctuary and a tile-covered wooden roof. It served as both a marketplace and a religious institution. Recent archeological excavations at the site revealed gifts made of gold and ivory... earrings, bracelets, and necklaces... artifacts from as far as Persia and India..
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus -
The Mausoleum is located in the city of Bodrum on the Aegean Sea. In 377 B.C. the city of Halicarnassus was the capitol of a small kingdom along the Mediterranean coast of Asia Minor. Mausolus, with his queen Artimisia, ruled over
Halicarnassus and the surrounding territory for 24 years. In 353 B.C, Mausolus died, as a tribute to him, Artimisia decided to build him a splendid tomb. It became a structure so famous that Mausolus's name is now associated with all tombs
(Turkey). Populated by Dorians (an early-history Greek people) before 1000 BC, the island's location made it a major point on the ancient
trade route through the Mediterranean Sea and the Aegean Sea. Its importance continued for many centuries, with both the Greeks
and Romans capitalizing on its strategic location. Rhodes was famous for the "Colossus of Rhodes" - a 100 foot brass statue of
the pagan sun god "Helios" which stood at the harbor entrance. Constructed about 290 BC, the idol was toppled by an earthquake
about 225 BC.
Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria -
Pharos Lighthouse stood on the eastern point of Pharos Island some distance from the city center of Alexandria. Constructed at the beginning of the third century BC over a period of about twelve years and at an enormous cost and using considerable
slave labor, Pharos Lighthouse was completed and inaugurated by the first Ptolemy's son, Ptolemy Philadelphus, in 283. There are some 2250 blocks have been counted. Though many issues surrounding Pharos Lighthouse remains mysteries, perhaps
someday we will have a much more complete understanding of this Seventh Wonder of the ancient world.
