Funny clips of people destroying and roasting woke liberals for having meltdowns over the elections. Liberal women breaking up with their conservative men is a win for those men!! UTL COMMENT:- I haven’t seen liberals this upset since, ummmm, yesterday Extra content & socials - https://linktr.ee/arakotv

In the small town of Porrino, Italy, a crop circle emerged, which depicted a seven-pointed star. Contained in the design was a code, which seemed to identify its creator as somebody named Enki. This is not a random or inconsequential name. Enki is the name of an ancient Sumerian god, a precursor to Aquarius. More importantly, Enki was, according to some, the leader of an ancient group of aliens called the Anunnaki, who visited Earth long ago. UTL COMMENT:- I’ve always been fascinated with these crop circles! ??? Who / what does them and WHY? Comments below!!!! With thanks to:- https://www.youtube.com/@UniverseInsideYou ✨ Elevate your style with this incredible collection! ? https://ANCESTRA.shop If you want to support our work and help us do more videos, you can become a Member of the channel by pressing the Join button. You can also support us by joining our Patreon / universeinsideyou Narration: Petra Ortiz - http://petraortiz.com T-Shirts: https://teespring.com/stores/universe... ? Subscribe and like if you enjoyed the video. Thank you ? For Spanish-narrated videos, visit my Spanish channel: ‪@UniverseInsideYouEspanol‬

Good music needs human imperfection. The post Brian Eno explains why modern music is less “human” first appeared on Far Out Magazine.

UK Labour MP Kim Leadbeater’s euthanasia bill is “the biggest threat we’ve faced since the Marris Bill in 2015. We defeated it then, and we can do so now, but we need […]

In September, the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency (“ARIA”) announced a significant investment of £57 million to fund researchers examining ideas for artificially cooling the planet through small-scale outdoor geoengineering experiments.  […]

by William Upton, The National Pulse: Author Stephen King, recently more notable for his asinine anti-Trump social media posts than his fictional accounts of child orgies, says he is leaving Elon Musk’s social media platform X (formerly Twitter). The prolific writer—known for his novels It, The Shining, Salem’s Lot, and others—made the announcement, ironically, through a post on X. “I’m leaving Twitter. Tried […]

by Brian Shilhavy, Health Impact News: President elect Donald Trump has announced that Florida Representative Matt Gaetz is appointed to be the next U.S. Attorney General, and that Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. is appointed to the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services, making these two appointments his most controversial appointments yet. Matt Gaetz […]

  Portugal’s deep-rooted history stretches from its medieval castles and Roman ruins to the Moorish fortifications that dot the landscape. Some of its most renowned historic sites include the stunning Convent of Christ in Tomar, the Roman Temple of Évora, and the Moorish Castle in Sintra, each echoing the country’s diverse heritage. However, if you’re eager to explore the hidden, ancient soul of this captivating European country, there’s no better way than to head to its timeless villages perched atop hills and tucked away in mountains. Here are ten must-visit historic villages in Portugal that promise a journey back in time.   1. Monsanto Monsanto village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This historic village is located in central Portugal and is renowned for its unique architecture, where granite houses are built around massive boulders, giving it a strikingly unique look. Perched on a 758-meter hill, the village offers sweeping views over the surrounding countryside. Its roots reach back to the Paleolithic era, with Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish influences over time.   In 1165, King Afonso Henriques granted Monsanto to the Knights Templar, who added a hilltop castle that still stands. Named “the most Portuguese village in Portugal” in 1938, Monsanto’s winding, cobblestone paths, ancient castle ruins, and annual Festa das Cruzes draw visitors seeking a deep connection to the country’s heritage.   2. Sortelha Sortelha village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Sortelha is one of Portugal’s oldest and best-preserved medieval villages, which you can find in the country’s Centro region. Established in the 12th century, it was granted a charter in 1228 by King Sancho II, who also ordered the construction of its castle. The village is encircled by well-preserved granite walls and features narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional stone houses, reflecting its rich history.   When visiting Sortelha, you can explore the 13th-century castle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and admire unique granite formations like the “Old Lady’s Head.”   The authentic medieval atmosphere and architectural heritage of Sortelha make it the perfect village to visit if you want to learn about the past of Portugal.   3. Castelo Rodrigo Castelo Rodrigo village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Also located in the Centro region of Portugal, this ancient village is perched atop a hill, so obviously, it provides you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The origins of Castelo Rodrigo date back to the 12th century, with significant developments during the reign of King Dinis, who fortified the village to protect against invasions. Encircled by medieval walls, the village features narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional stone houses. So you can imagine the depth of history lying within this town.   Start by visiting the ruins of Cristóvão de Moura’s palace, the 16th-century pillory, and the medieval cistern. Also, the Church of Our Lady of Rocamador, with its statue of Saint James the Moor-slayer, is noteworthy.   4. Piódão Piodao village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Nestled in Portugal’s Serra do Açor mountains, Piódão is famous for its distinctive schist houses with blue-painted windows and doors. Established in the Middle Ages, it served as a refuge due to its remote location, with legends suggesting it sheltered fugitives, including one of Inês de Castro’s assassins.   The labyrinthine cobblestone streets are what draw visitors the most to Piódão, in addition to the 17th-century Igreja Matriz with its white façade contrasting against the dark schist, and the nearby Foz d’Égua, known for its picturesque bridges and natural pools.   The tranquil setting and well-preserved architecture of Piódão will allow you to learn a lot about the rural heritage of Portugal.   5. Marialva Marialva village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   This charming hilltop village, found in Portugal’s Centro region, is filled with history and takes you back to the country’s medieval era. Its origins trace back to pre-Roman times, but its prominence grew during the 12th century under Portuguese rule, with its castle serving as a crucial defensive stronghold.   When visiting, make sure to check out the three main areas: the Citadel, now a preserved historic area within the castle walls; Arrabalde, where traditional stone houses line cobbled streets; and Devesa, an extension beyond the old fortress.   Within the Citadel, key sites include the 12th-century Marialva Castle, with panoramic views over the Côa Valley, and the Parish Church of Santiago, a 14th-century Gothic structure with well-preserved frescoes. Also notable are the 16th-century pillory and the ruins of the old jailhouse, reflecting Marialva’s medieval civic life.   6. Idanha-a-Velha Idanha-a-Velha village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   The Centro region of Portugal is indeed filled with historic villages, and this is why it also houses Idanha-a-Velha, whose origins trace back to the 1st century BC when it was established as Civitas Igaeditanorum by the Romans.   Over the centuries, it was occupied by Visigoths, who renamed it Egitânia, and later by Muslims, who called it Idânia.   Key sites include the impressive Roman walls and the Torre dos Templários, a tower built on the remains of a Roman temple, later repurposed by the Knights Templar.   The 4th-century Cathedral of Idanha considered one of the oldest in Portugal, offers insight into early Christian worship, while the 17th-century pillory and stone sarcophagi add layers to its medieval past. Visitors can also explore the Lagar de Varas, an ancient olive press, and the museum housed in a former Bishop’s Palace, which preserves Idanha-a-Velha’s legacy as a crossroads of history.   7. Monsaraz Monsaraz village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Monsaraz is a hilltop village in Portugal’s Alentejo region and is a beautifully preserved medieval gem with roots tracing back to prehistoric times.   Overlooking the Guadiana River, Monsaraz was strategically significant, with influences from Romans, Visigoths, and Moors. In 1167, it was reclaimed from Moorish control by Geraldo Sem Pavor and later fortified by the Knights Templar under King Sancho II in 1232, leaving a castle that still dominates the skyline.   The village’s cobbled streets lead you through whitewashed houses to landmarks such as the Gothic-style Church of Nossa Senhora da Lagoa, with intricate Manueline elements, and the 14th-century Chapel of São João Baptista, known for its stunning frescoes. As for The Casa da Inquisição, or Inquisition House, it highlights darker chapters of Portuguese history. The medieval castle, with its sweeping views over the Alqueva Reservoir, Europe’s largest artificial lake, is a must-see.   8. Belmonte Roman tower of Centum Cellas, Belmonte, Portugal. Source: Flickr   Also located in Portugal’s stunning Centro region, this historic village is perched on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela mountains and has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with Roman and medieval influences evident throughout. Belmonte is renowned as the birthplace of Pedro Álvares Cabral, the navigator who discovered Brazil in 1500.   A focal point of Belmonte is its 13th-century castle, which was later transformed into the residence of the Cabral family. When you reach Belmonte, start by exploring the castle’s ruins and enjoying the panoramic views it offers. Adjacent to the castle are the Church of Santiago and the Cabral Pantheon, housing the tombs of the Cabral family.   Belmonte is also notable for its enduring Jewish community, which survived the Inquisition by practicing their faith in secret. The Jewish Museum of Belmonte provides insights into this unique history, showcasing artifacts and narratives of the community’s resilience. The village’s well-preserved synagogue, Bet Eliahu, stands as a testament to this enduring heritage.   Other attractions include the Museum of the Discoveries, which allows you to learn about Portugal’s maritime history, and the Olive Oil Museum, which reflects the agricultural traditions in the region.   9. Almeida The Gates of Almeida, Alameida village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Located in Portugal’s Centro region near the Spanish border, Almeida is renowned for its star-shaped fortress, a prime example of 17th-century military architecture. The village’s strategic importance is evident in its 12-pointed star fortifications, constructed during the reign of King Dinis in the 13th century and later enhanced in the 17th century.   You can explore the well-preserved walls, gates, and the historic center, which includes the Picadeiro d’El Rey, a former royal riding arena now serving as a cultural venue. The Military Museum offers insights into Almeida’s role in various conflicts, including the Peninsular War. Walking through Almeida’s cobblestone streets, visitors can admire traditional stone houses and the Church of Nossa Senhora das Candeias, where you can get a glimpse into the rich heritage of the village.   10. Linhares da Beira Linhares da Beira village, Portugal. Source: Wikimedia Commons   Linhares da Beira, nestled on the western slopes of Portugal’s Serra da Estrela, is a medieval village that offers a rich tapestry of history and architecture. Established in the 12th century, it received its first charter from King Afonso Henriques in 1169. The village’s strategic importance is underscored by its imposing castle, constructed during the reign of King Dinis in the 13th century, which provided defense against invasions.   The well-preserved castle, which is a must-visit, provides you with panoramic views of the Mondego River Valley. The village’s narrow cobblestone streets are lined with traditional granite houses, many adorned with Manueline-style windows and Gothic doorways, which showcase its architectural heritage. Notable landmarks include the 16th-century Igreja da Misericórdia, known for its Renaissance features, and the Romanesque Igreja Matriz de Linhares da Beira.   Linhares da Beira is also recognized as a prime location for paragliding, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The village’s rich history, architectural beauty, and scenic landscapes are all valid reasons to visit the beautiful Linhares da Beira.

  Unlike the more famous knightly brethren, the Templars, the Knights Hospitallers were (are) an almost unknown organization. Yet, like their fellow knights, the Hospitallers formed during the Crusades to help Christian travelers in the Holy Lands. They fought like the Templars, fighting against Muslim armies. In 1113, the Pope issued a papal bull, “Pie Postulatio Voluntatis,”  that gave official recognition. By the 19th century, the Hospitallers were now known for their medical and charitable missions. Curious? Let’s learn more!   What Are Other Names for the Hospitallers? Hospitaller Knights. Source: Ralph Hammann   The exact name for this order is “Knights of the Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem.” They are also known as the Order of Saint John, Knights of Saint John, and Order of Hospitallers. The names did change over time, reflecting location changes. They became the “Knights of Malta” in 1530 after settling in Malta, pushed there by the Ottoman Empire.   Why Was the Hospitaller Order Established Amidst the Crusades? The Hospitaller Castle Krak Des Cavaliers in Syria. Source: AlluringWorld.com   Despite defeating the formidable Muslim armies capturing Jerusalem and the lands around, the Holy Land was anything but safe. Founded much earlier than 1113 by Italian merchants, the Hospitallers built a hospital. Here, Benedictine monks helped poor, sick, or injured Christians in Jerusalem or around.    Their mission changed after Papal recognition in 1113, becoming a military order like the Templars. Their Knights typically wore red surcoats with a white eight-pointed cross as a symbol. Their mission changed slightly, becoming defenders of the Holy Land. This mission lasted until 1291, when Muslim armies retook territory lost two centuries before. Their combined military and humanitarian ethos set them apart from their peers, like the Templars or Teutonic Knights.    How Did the Hospitallers Organize Themselves? Papal Order for Hospitallers. Source: The Order of Malta   Like the other knightly orders, the order was headed by a Grand Master. The Master’s responsibilities included overall leadership, military, and peaceful roles. The second in command, the Grand Commander, assisted him.    The Hospitallers organized themselves around their dual roles as soldiers and healers. The Knights wore white cloaks with red crosses. The Hospitallers, as did the non-military members, wore white crosses on black cloaks. All were professional soldiers, knights being the era’s shock troops. Though the order’s headquarters was in Jerusalem, they built stations, hospitals, and castles throughout the Holy Land and Europe, the Krak Des Cavaliers in Syria is considered the best preserved. A local Arab ruler started building in 1031, but the Knights acquired the site and built this massive fortress. This remained a significant stronghold until 1271.   The Hospitaller Order used local cavalry called turcopoles, who, too, wore white with red crosses. The priests, doctors, and chaplains also had equally important roles.    What Catholic Symbols Represented the Hospitaller Order? Maltese Cross. Source: Wikimedia Commons   The European Catholic knightly orders used the Cross on their surcoats, shields, documents, and buildings. The order adopted the eight-point Maltese Cross in 1126 for the Hospitallers, also called the Cross of Saint John. The eight points represent a Hospitaller’s virtues: reverence for the Church, piety, loyalty, courage, honor and glory, caring for the sick or poor, disregard for death, and honesty.    The Hospitallers used the Amalfi Cross on banners, flags, and other insignia. Similar to the Maltese Cross, this also contained eight points. Lastly, the Order used a white cross on a black background on their surcoats. This embodied their purity and dedication.    When Did the Hospitaller Knights Rise to Prominence?   Raymond Du Puy. Source: Blessed-Gerard.org   The First Crusade in 1099 led to the founding of the Hospitaller Order in Jerusalem. They garnered a reputation for healing and aiding pilgrims. That mission changed in the 1120s under Raymond Du Puy, who gradually militarized the order. He offered the King of Jerusalem the Knights to help defend the Kingdom against Islam. The official Papal recognition boosted the Order’s reputation. The Order helped defend the kingdom and lifted the 1153 lifting of the Seige of Askelon, showing their military prowess.   Where Did the Knights Go After the Holy Land Was Lost? Illustration of the Knights Hospitaller. Source: Wikipedia   Jerusalem fell to the reconquering Muslim armies in 1187. Bereft of a home, the Order went to local locations like Acre. But this fell too to the Muslim armies who now possessed the initiative. The Knights retreated to Cyprus and then Rhodes in 1310. It took the Turks almost 200 years to recapture Rhodes. The Hospitallers’ toughness kept the Ottoman Empire at bay. Upon losing Rhodes in 1530, the Hospitallers were given Malta. This remained their primary location until later troubles.   Where Are the Hospitallers Now?   The Hospitallers’ military arm no longer exists. Several organizations carry on their humanitarian traditions. A successor is the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, a Catholic order providing worldwide aid. Others, like the Order of Saint John in Sweden, carry out activities like disaster relief.