Visiting Cemeteries | Reasons Why You Should Visit

Are you the type of person who enjoy and loves visiting the cemeteries? 

If you are one among these kind of people then you have to know that you are not alone. 

Many individuals actually loves to visit these burial sites because they find the place interestingly beautiful, quite peaceful and calm. 

You might be surprised to know that some people even made visiting the cemeteries their hobbies.

Although, other people may find it weird and creepy where they simply couldn't stand visiting a cemetery. 

Some says that they may encounter and attract ghosts or spirits which might follow them back home. All these eerie feeling are probably due to watching too much horror movies.

Here are the following reasons why you should visit a cemetery:

1. Remembering Your Dead Love Ones

The main reason why you should visit a cemetery is actually to remember and pay your respect to your dead love ones. 

They can be your grandparents, relatives, friends or anyone who are close to you when they were still alive.

2. Learning About Your Family Tree

In most traditional burial culture, the grave or tomb of a certain individual is often situated next to the grave or tomb of their fellow family members. 

Thus, visiting the cemetery is the perfect place for your children to know more about their ancestors, older generations or their family history.

3. Remind Us About Our Mortality

When visiting a cemetery, those tombs or graves will remind us about our mortality which means that we won't live forever. 

There will soon be a time that our physical body will be buried on this place later when we die. This will teach us that we should treasure every moments of our lives it's because it's great to be alive.

4. Draw Us Closer to Spirituality

Speaking about mortality, you will draw closer to your spiritual belief. A spiritual belief about the existence of "life-after-death".

5. Quiet and Peaceful Place

If you want a quiet and peaceful place to pass your free-time, you may want to consider visiting a cemetery. 

Some says that the quietness and peacefulness of the place allows them to fall into a deep trance. 

This often makes them able to make connections into their passed love ones remembering all the happy times that they had shared together.

6. Beautiful Place to Visit

Some people visit cemeteries because it is a beautiful place. 

Due to its beauty, you will feel relax especially when you are to breath the fresh air. All thanks to the caretakers who are maintaining the cleanliness of the place.

7. Honoring Your Dead

Last but not the least is, "honoring your dead or simply the dead people buried on the cemetery". Most people bring them flowers and candles that they left behind. 

You may be surprised to know that some cultures even offer them some foods on their tombs.

Proper Cemetery Etiquette

When visiting any cemeteries, proper etiquette must be observed. Although, there is no one enforcing such rule but it is completely bad to be disrespectful on this kind of solemn place.

Here are the following proper cemetery etiquette that must be observe:

1. Respect Everyone

The most important etiquette when you are visiting a cemetery is all about "respect". Everyone must always be reminded that the cemetery is a place to mourn their passed love ones.

2. Maintain a Quiet Environment

Do not shout or talk loud enough when having a conversation to somebody such as on the phone. When you have children along with you, tell them not to play and run around. 

Causing such disturbances is disrespectful to the other mourners.

3. Throw Your Trash in the Proper Place

Cemeteries do have caretakers who are maintaining the cleanliness of the place. But, this shouldn't be the reason why you should just leave your trash at any place. 

There should always be a proper garbage can nearby where you can throw your trashes.

4. Be Careful of Moving Objects on the Tombs

When some families visited the cemetery ahead of you, there are chances that they will be leaving objects such as flowers, photos, coins and etc... 

If it happens that you got interested to check on one of them, it is important that you have to place them back the way that you originally took them.

5. Don't Damage the Grave Markers

It is just natural that when a grave stone particularly the marker get's old through time, the writings can be too hard to read. 

Due to this reason, the common and wrong practice of what most people do is to rub it. This could actually damage the stone. 

So the best method to find the gravestone of your dead is to seek help from the people who are in-charge of the cemetery.

6. Asking Permission to Visit a Cemetery

Cemeteries can actually be considered as "Public" or "Private". If you are visiting a public cemetery then you can visit the place at any time that you want. 

However, private cemeteries have strict rules when it comes to visiting hours that some even requires asking permission from the person in-charge.

Overall, most people find comfort when visiting cemeteries. It is probably because the place reminds us about our passed love ones with the belief that they are on the safe hands of our Creator. 

And later, when we also die, they will be there waiting for us to be reunited once again.

Difference Between Cemetery and Graveyard

Some individuals are so curios to ask about "what is the difference between cemetery and graveyard". 

In general sense, they actually just mean the same which is a "burial ground" or "resting place" for the dead. This is the reason why most people today use them interchangeably.

But to tell you exactly the difference between a cemetery from a graveyard, it is best explained by taking a look back into the history.

The word "graveyard" actually started in the Middle Ages particularly originated in the European countries. 

At this age, the majority of the countries were controlled by the church the reason why there were so many churches built in the past. 

And as a traditional burial practice, people often buried their dead on a land nearby the surroundings of the churches or churchyards. Hence, we can say that graveyards are burial sites situated near churches.

In the late 18th to 19th centuries, there was a sudden rise of disease outbreak which was probably due to the graveyards. 

Other than that, there was an increasing number of population where more spaces were needed for the people to settle down. 

As a result, both of the government and religious authorities had decided to relocate the burial sites far away from human habitations. At this point, graveyards were being replaced by cemeteries.

Today, most graveyards were now long abandoned. They got rid of the stones and bodies where the land is now being used by the community.

Graveyards are Creepy Burial Sites

Most horror movies portrays graveyards as creepy disorganized burial sites surrounded by dead or withering trees with no one assigned to maintain its cleanliness. 

It's like a garbage site for dead people with no one to care or remember about them. The tombstones are actually quite dirty, decayed and some of them even have large cracks.

When visiting a graveyard, most people also tends to get the creepy feeling that the dead will suddenly rise back to life in the form of zombies. 

Or, a creepy hand will suddenly grab your foot by surprise. Are you a fan of Michael Jackson? 

You should watch his MTV or music video entitled, "Thriller".

And as stated above, graveyards are situated near the churches which is also close to the community.

Cemetery is a Beautiful Burial Place of the Dead

The cemetery is the complete opposite of graveyard. It is a well maintained beautiful burial place for the dead. The grasses, trees and flowers are well cared by someone who is being paid to do this job.

All of the tombstones are well arranged or aligned in their proper rows and columns. And, the markings on the tombstones are artistically engraved for easy identification of the dead person buried on that spot.

A cemetery is also located at an area that is far from the community or human habitations.

Since the cemetery is such a wonderful place, many people often pay a visit to their dead. 

They bring flowers and they can spend long period of hours on the cemetery because most people find it a very relaxing place. 

This is the reason why people would now prefer to be buried in a cemetery over graveyard.

Overall, we can say that a graveyard is comparable to a wasteland while the cemetery is comparable to a paradise. 

This makes the main difference between the two is all about the "description" of the burial sites. But, they are just basically the same site where dead people are buried.

References:

Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects - Difference Between Cemetery and Graveyard
http://bit.ly/difference-between | [Last Accessed on September 5, 2015]

The Candid Cemetery - What's the Difference Between a Graveyard and a Cemetery
http://bit.ly/candid-cemetery | [Last Accessed on September 5, 2015]

Quora - What is the Difference Between a Cemetery and a Graveyard?
http://bit.ly/quora-9-6-15 | [Last Accessed on September 6, 2015]

Yahoo Answers
http://bit.ly/yahooanswers-9-6-15 | [Last Accessed on September 6, 2015]

Person Who Carries the Casket | Pallbearers

Funerals that involves caskets requires the right "person who carries the casket" in which people call them as "Pallbearers". It is their responsibility to help carry or escort the casket right into the burial site.

The most common question is that, "Why are they called pallbearers?".

Pallbearers actually came from two words which are "Pall" and "Bearers". The word pall actually refers to a decorative cloth that is draped over the coffin. 

If you have seen or attended any military or state funerals, you must have noticed the National Flag draped over the coffin which is referred as the pall. 

As for the word bearers, I think that's already self-explanatory. But just in case that you do not know, it is an act of "carrying" or "holding" something.

In the past, the original duty of pallbearers was simply to walk alongside those that carries the casket. 

Their main job was just actually to make sure that the pall will not fall-off (which often caused by winds) from the coffin. 

Since most funerals sees them as unnecessary, they got rid of them. However, the title of their role was passed down to those that carries the coffin which seem to fit much better on their purpose.

Who Can Become Pallbearers?

The pallbearers who are authorized to carry the casket actually depends on your culture. 

When it comes to most Western Cultures, the pallbearers are usually close friends, family members, relatives, associates of the deceased person or can be anyone else. 

They can also be either men or women as long as they are fit enough to hold the coffin.

In some other cultures particularly in Asian countries, the pallbearers are individuals that must not be related or does not have any connection to the deceased person. 

Thus, the family of the deceased will have to hire pallbearers and pay for their services.

Carrying the Casket

Traditional caskets actually consists of six handles. Three handles on each side. This allows six pallbearers to carry the casket. 

But today, there are some caskets with a total of eight handles. There are two additional handles on the front and back sides of the casket. 

As a result, a total of eight pallbearers can carry the coffin which is a less burden of weight for them.

It is actually very important that pallbearers must be strongly fit enough to carry the casket or they may end up dropping the coffin on the ground. 

If you have chosen a family member, relative or somebody who is close enough to the deceased then you have to make sure that he or she does not suffer any deep emotional distress.

If it happens that a certain member of the family wants to become one of the pallbearers but shows signs of incapability then you can ask them to become "Honorary Pallbearers". 

They are also considered pallbearers but simply walks along with the coffin-carriers at either the front, side or behind. The good part is that, there is no limitation to the number to honorary pallbearers.

What Happens If No One Wants to Become a Pallbearer?

An interesting question came into my mind thinking about what happens to your casket if there is no single person in the world who cares about you? 

Surely, none will carry your casket on your funeral.

On my search for the answer, if you have the money and already made a full advance payment to a certain Funeral Home service before you died then they will be the one who will take good care of everything which include paid pallbearers who will carry your casket into your final resting ground or gravesite. 

However, if you don't have the money then you will end up being cremated which doesn't requires casket and pallbearers.

How Much Does A Casket Cost?

When it comes to "how much does a casket cost?", there are actually several factors involve about how a certain casket or coffin is priced. 

Some of these factors includes casket design, quality of materials used and the size.

The most common type of caskets are those that are made out of sturdy steel. These are rolled steel of varying gauges. 

So if you chose the lowest gauge then that will be the thickest steel where it could cost a lot more expensive. Metal caskets made out of 20 gauge steel are the cheapest.

The advantage of metal caskets is that, it tends to last longer. In fact, some manufacturers even offers warranty for longevity to their metal caskets. 

As for the cost, average metal caskets could cost between $2,000 to $4,000. Caskets made from bronze and copper cost between $5,000 to $7,000.

Next to the metal caskets are the "wooden caskets". 

But unlike the metal caskets, manufacturers don't offer warranty for longevity because there is no possible way to lengthen the durability of wooden materials for a long period of time. Wooden caskets are also not gasketed.

When you decide to purchase a wooden casket, you get to choose from these following types hardwood materials:

1. Mahogany
2. Walnut
3. Cherry
4. Oak
5. Poplar
6. Softwood (like pine)

Wooden caskets made out of softwoods such as "pine caskets" costs the cheapest. However, most funeral homes rarely display them. 

As for the high-quality solid wooden caskets, the prices ranges between $1,500 to $3,000.

Other than metal and wood, other materials used by manufacturers in constructing caskets are fiberboard, fiberglass and other forms of hard plastic materials.

The average costs for the cheapest and simple caskets which are particularly made out of soft materials ranges from the price of more than $2,000. 

Elegant and highly durable caskets could go from a price of $10,000 and above. 

But according to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) back in 2009, they stated that the average cost of a casket made from metal was only at $2,295.

Buying Casket from the Funeral Homes

If it's your first time to buy a casket from any Funeral Homes or Casket Showroom, the most important tip that you need to know is "always ask for the complete lists of caskets on sale".

A shop that sells caskets must have a complete list of their available casket products. By asking the list, you should be able to check each of their casket's prices and description. 

This will save you the time of wondering around the corner of the shop checking the caskets that are on display.

You have to know that those displayed caskets from the store are most likely higher-end models which are pretty expensive. 

And, it's always the first impression of all sellers to introduce to their customers these kinds of models. So if you are on the tight budget, don't hesitate to ask for the lower-priced models on their product list. 

And also, don't be surprised if these low-priced casket models are not on display but being kept at their storage room.

Today, you can also purchase caskets here on the internet. There are actually plenty of websites that sells a variety of caskets complete with descriptions, photos and prices. 

However, before you decide to buy a casket online, it is important that your Funeral Home agrees to use the casket that you are going to purchase. Other than that, they should allow it without charging you any amount of fee.

Most Affordable and Eco-Friendly Caskets

If you are really on a very tight budget and you have deep concern about our environment then the perfect casket for you to choose are probably those "eco-friendly caskets". 

These type of caskets are actually the cheapest kind which only cost around $1,000.

Eco-friendly caskets are made out of bio-degradable materials which are crafted from any of the following materials:

1. Cardboard
2. Bamboo
3. Willow bark
4. Banana leaf
5. Sea grass

Caskets made out of these bio-degradable materials are best used for "green burial" or "cremation".

Moreover, when buy a casket or any funeral products offered by the Funeral Homes, you need to be curious about their prices. 

You have to know that some of them actually trick their customers by selling higher rate of prices for their products. 

Thus, it is basically important that you have to compare prices that you got from several different sellers.

Black Coffin Treasure Boxes Found in Mindanao

There are rumors around the internet that the location of the black coffin treasure boxes has been finally found somewhere in the coastal part of Mindanao. 

Of course, the source won't state the exact location because many treasure hunters or perhaps even the US or Philippine military will race into the site.

The one who claimed to have found the black coffins is a fisherman. According to him, he first noticed large chains underwater. 

When he came close to investigate, the fisherman noticed black objects where the chains were tied. He also noticed that the black objects consists of serial numbers on them.

With the fisherman's curiosity, he attempted to open the boxes to check what was inside them. He tried everything using every possible tool that he had but to no avail, the fisherman couldn't open any of the boxes.

There was another claim. Another fisherman from Mindanao who had a close encounter with the black coffin treasures. 

His experience was quite similar to the other fisherman above. When he dived underwater, he saw the black coffins tied with large chains around them.

According to this second fisherman, the black objects consists of serial numbers and there are about 30 of them. 

At first, he thought that these boxes were placed on a huge rock. But later on, he discovered that it wasn't a rock but a sunken ship.

The most shocking experience that made this fisherman swore not to get close and make contact into those black objects ever again was when he attempted to touch them using his fishing gear. 

The fisherman described the feeling that he felt electrocuted that he immediately ascended back to his boat.

Lastly is this most interesting claim. The black coffin had already been recovered by some high-ranking official of a certain military organization in Mindanao. 

Although, he only recovered one black box and according to the source, the box consists of several holes at its side.

This person is said to have taken the black box into some part of Davao province and he is selling at an expensive price of 60 million pesos or about 1.3 million dollars.

Moreover, it seems that the black coffin treasure is indeed hidden somewhere in the coastal area of Mindanao.

Hanging Coffins on the Cliffs of the Three Gorges

In China at the place called, "Three Gorges" which is situated along the Yangtze River was a historical attraction known as the "Hanging Coffins". 

It's not actually just coffins but there are also many other suspended artifacts and occult phenomena that took place on this strange cliffs.

The cliffs itself are actually mysterious that it consists of many caves dating back from the old age of troglodytism. 

To make it more interesting, ancient human relics conceal some of the entrances to the caves. And just one among the most famous caves is the "Golden Cave".

There is actually an old saying about those hanging coffins from the cliff which goes like this:

"There are countless treasures in the cliff coffins in the Three Gorges, which cannot be obtained even by risking your life".

Due to the saying above, some people attempted to steal some of the coffins in the belief that there are valuable treasures inside them. 

One of the famous attempt was in 1971. The group consisted of a bow-backed person, monk and simply just a lame man. 

They bravely ventured into the Qutang Gorge which is one part of the Three Gorges cliffs. 

There, they had successfully took one coffin down from the cliff but they were very disappointed just to find some bronze wares and potteries.

In 1966 to 1976, people had destroyed most of the coffins from the cliffs. Aside from the skeletons, the coffins simply contains tea leaves, books, medicines and other artifacts. 

It was then realized that the objects along with the remains has something to do with the profession of the dead person.

As an example, a coffin containing objects such as fishing nets, fish hooks and other related fishing tools. It means that the coffin belongs to a fisherman. 

People during the ancient period actually believed that when a person dies, he or she will need those objects to continue on their vocations in their next afterlife.

How did the Coffins Got on the Cliff?

Many people are being puzzled by how the ancient people managed to get those coffins hanging on the cliff. However, experts claims that there are 3 possible methods on how it can be done.

1. Chisel and Rope

They will chisel caves out of the cliffs for the purpose of placing the coffins. 

And in order to place the coffin, they need to use a rope tied from the top of the mountains which they use as support in setting the coffin in place.

2. Tunnels and Caves

They will create tunnels or caves in the cliff. And once done placing the coffin, they will destroy the tunnel to keep thieves out from robbing the grave.

3. Block and Tackle

They are genuine enough to make use of a block and tackle to lift the coffins and set them in place on the cliff. Once done, they will of course remove the equipment.

Overall, those hanging coffins on the cliffs on the Three Gorges may not contain valuable treasures but they actually have unique cultural value. 

It allows us to learn about the early traditions of the ancient people in the Three Gorges on how they treat their dead.

Golden Larnax of Philip II of Macedonia

The most famous larnax ever found in the world is the "Golden Larnax of Philip II" of Macedonia. He was the father of "Alexander the Great". 

And, his golden larnax was excavated at Vergina in the northern part of Macedonia.

According to the archaeologists, Philip II's larnax is dated back to the 4th century BC. It is made out of precious gold with a sun motif design on the top surface of its lid. 

However, archaeological experts aren't still sure if the tomb really belonged to king Philip II.

What Is a Larnax?

A larnax is actually a small box or coffin. Contained inside is a human remain which is either bent to fit inside the box or cremated into ashes. 

In the ancient period of Macedonia, keeping the human remains of their beloved families was a common practice that they follow.

During the Greek Bronze Age, archaeologist have found the first larnax dating back in the ancient period of the Minoan times. 

But unlike king Philip II's larnax, it is simply made of ceramics that imitates wooden chests. The pattern has a huge similarity to the Egyptian linen chests. 

Decorations consists of abstract patterns with animal figures and portrayals of their hunting and cult rituals.

Another famous larnax was the one that belonged to the Hellenistic period. It takes the form of a small terracotta sarcophagi painted with some similar artistic styles to that of the Greek vases.

Today, some people particularly in China still follows this ancient tradition of encasing the remains of their dead. 

After cremation of the dead human body, the ashes will be kept inside a rounded vase known as "urn". Urns can be displayed inside the house because they are actually made with highly decorative design for display purposes.

Moreover, the golden larnax along with the golden crown of king Philip II of Macedonia is now displayed at the Vergina Museum.

Interesting Facts About Plutonium

Plutonium was first discovered in 1940 to 1941 by Glenn T. Seaborg, Edwin M. McMillan, J.W. Kennedy and A.C. Wahl at the University of California at Berkeley. 

They actually submitted a documentation of their discovery but immediately withdrawn when it was found out that plutonium can undergo nuclear fission.

The word "plutonium" was actually derived from the planets of the solar system: Pluto, Uranus and Neptune.

And based from the Periodic Table of Elements, Plutonium has the following characteristics:

Atomic Number: 94
Atomic Symbol: Pu
Atomic Weight: 244
Melting Point: 1,184 F (640 C)
Boiling Point: 5,842 F (3,228 C)

Physical Characteristics of Plutonium

Raw and fresh plutonium are metals with silvery bright color but when oxidized by air, the color changes into dull gray, yellow or olive green.

It was also found out that plutonium metals are quickly dissolved when submerged in a highly-concentrated mineral acids.

When it comes to human senses, touching a large piece of plutonium feels warm. It's because of its energy known as "alpha decay". 

In fact, a very large piece of plutonium is capable of producing extreme heat good enough to boil water.

And unlike most other metals, plutonium is not a good conductor of electricity.

Important Usage of Plutonium

In the past second world war, the use of plutonium was a main ingredient in the creation of the most powerful nuclear bomb used in the history of WW2. 

But since the war has long ended, the important usage of plutonium are now directed towards nuclear power plants.

According to the scientific research, a plutonium is capable of producing high temperature of heat that can withstand a long half-life of 88 years. 

This is what makes this element also a perfect heat source for radioisotope thermoelectric generators. These are special generators used in powering various equipment for outer space exploration.

Moreover, the most important fact that the general public needs to know about plutonium is that, it is a radiological hazardous element. 

The only possible and safety means of handling plutonium is with the help of specialized equipment and a lot of safety precautions that needs to be strictly followed.

Famous Incidents of Plutonium Exposure

Plutonium is a highly dangerous element that when a person made slight mistake on handling it, it can take his or her life without mercy. 

Inhaling it alone can damage lungs and other internal organs. According to some scientific studies, inhalation of plutonium can cause decreased on life span, disease of the respiratory tract and cancer.

Here are the following famous incidents of plutonium exposure:

Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Back in World War 2, plutonium were discovered as a powerful element in the construction of nuclear bombs. 

The first devastating weapon in the history made out of plutonium was the atomic bomb. And, it was first dropped in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. 

Many people got killed that even the remaining survivors had later died due to radiation.

Louis Slotin

One of the most popular physicist and chemist who worked in the testing process of the plutonium cores was Louis Slotin. 

He was actually a part of the Manhattan Project who created the first atomic bombs.

The unfortunate incident had happened on May 21, 1946. Slotin was working along with his seven other colleagues where they were performing the first steps of a fission reaction. 

The procedure was placing two half-spheres of beryllium around a plutonium core.

Slotin's mistake was that, he used a screwdriver in trying to maintain the separation between the two half-spheres. 

This was clearly a violation of their experimental protocol. Thus, the unexpected incident happened where the screwdriver got slipped which caused the upper beryllium sphere to fall. 

This had caused a critical reaction that emitted a powerful burst of radiation. He then died 9 days later from the incident.

Harry K. Daghlian, Jr.

Another incident which again involved the Manhattan Project was an Armenian-American physicists, Harry K. Daghlian Jr. His was actually attempting to build a neutron reflector out from a plutonium core and tungsten carbide bricks.

One crucial safety regulations that Daghlian violated was that, he was working late at night all alone by himself in the laboratory. 

His experiment actually involved stacking a series of tungsten carbide bricks around the plutonium core. 

However, he accidentally dropped the final brick into the assembly which caused a super critical reaction. 

The only possible way to stop the reaction was that, he partially disassembled the tungsten carbide. But due to the time that took him, he received a lethal dose of neutron radiation. 

He died 25 days later from the incident.

Cecil Kelley

Cecil Kelley was a chemical operator of a large mixing tank in the Los Alamos plutonium processing facility. But on December 30, 1958, unexpected incident happened while Kelley was on duty. 

The solution in the tank somewhat increased to a critical level. So when Kelley switched the stirrer ON, the liquid inside the tank formed a vortex and at the same time, the plutonium layer released a powerful bursts of neutrons and gamma radiation.

At the time of incident, Kelley was standing on a foot ladder checking into the tank through the viewing window but as a result of the emitted radiation, she fell and knocked down on the floor.

Kelly was rushed to the hospital suffering from an agonizing pain that she was burning up. She was also semiconscious, retching, vomiting and hyperventilating. 

And unlike the other incidents mentioned above, Kelly didn't survive long enough because she died 35 hours later after the incident.

Therefore, these famous incidents of plutonium exposure should already be good enough to warn people from attempting to recover the black coffin treasures. 

If in case that they do contain plutonium, attempting to open them can take their lives including those other innocent people that can be reached by the radiation.

Common FAQs About the Black Coffin Treasure

Many treasure hunters are actually questioning the existence of the black coffin treasure that was dropped by the US Navy somewhere in the Philippine Sea. 

Some says that it's a hoax or fake where there is no such thing while others claim that they have found it.

Here are the following commonly asked questions about the black coffin treasure in the Philippines:

1. What is contained in those black coffin treasures?

Nobody can really confirm the contents of the black coffin treasures. But rumors say that, they contain highly dangerous radioactive element called, "Plutonium". 

This is a type of element used in the past second world war in creating the first Atomic Bomb.

2. Are plutonium expensive?

Yes, plutonium is no doubt quite expensive because it is a rare form of element. 

In fact, there are only few national suppliers and there are extreme strict limitations to those who can buy it and the amount that the buyers are allowed to purchase. 

Due to this reason, dropping those black coffins into the Philippine sea is being questioned by many which seems to prove that the whole idea was a hoax.

3. Why did the US Navy dropped it in the Philippine sea?

According to some rumors, the US Navy ships carrying those black coffin were on their way to deliver the goods but as soon as they heard that the war was finally over, they immediately dropped the boxes since it no longer serves them the intended purpose. 

Other than that, it may also be heavy for their ship that it travels at a slow speed. 

But upon hearing the news that the war has ended, they maybe in a hurry to get back home into their families so they had decided to unload the boxes to speed up their ship.

4. Can a plutonium stop a boat's engine?

According to some fishermen who claimed to have discovered the exact location of the black coffins, every time that they passes their engine-powered boat, it kills off their engine. 

They will only be able to start the engine back when they made it a far away from the site.

5. What's the reward for those who can find and recover the black coffin treasures?

According to the US Military, they are not giving any reward to anyone who can locate or recover the black coffins for them. 

But if sold into the black market, it could become quite a huge fortune for the finder.

Black Lacquer Coffin National Treasure

The famous "Black Lacquer Coffin" actually belongs to the empire of ancient China. And, it wasn't just an ordinary coffin because it belonged to the highest official of the empire. 

Today, it is now crowned as a "National Treasure".

Based from the historical book, each officials actually have their own corresponding type of coffin which was dependent to their Empire-Ranking position.

The highest of course is the emperor. His coffins would consists of five coffins and two other outer coffins. 

Next to the emperor is the feudal lord which was entitled to four coffins and one outer coffin or three coffins with two outer coffins. 

And lastly were the senior officials. Their coffins consists of two inner coffins and one outer coffin.

One of the most famous black lacquer coffin was that of the feudal lord Xin Zhui. His tomb occupied the "Mawangdui Tomb No. 1". 

Through his tomb, it provides a strong physical evidence of the Han Dynasty's funeral system.

Artistic Design of the Black Lacquer Coffin

The artistic design of the black lacquer coffin reflects the painting skills of the Western Han Dynasty. They often paint mystical and grotesque themes about their myth and legends. 

But through the technique which involve the use of embossing lacquer application, it simply shows that their artistic style have been influenced by the Chu-state culture.

Since the people of the Han Dynasty has been influenced by the Chu culture, they were believers of gods and immortals. 

Thus, common mythological designs of the coffins includes deities dancing with one another. There are also mythical gods that are hunting and doing some sort of other happy and joyous depictions about them.

Aside from their gods and immortal beings, there are also over one hundred different patterns of animals painted on the coffin. 

Later on, derived from this pattern comes the "flowing clouds with divine animals". This pattern signifies auspiciousness and exorcising demons. 

As a result, it was then adopted by the early Han Dynasty.

Moreover, the black lacquer coffin is now placed on exhibit at the Hunan Provincial Museum.

Mysterious Lead Coffins of the Medieval Leicester

When archaeologist dug the grave of king Richard III (former king of England) back in August 2013, the excavation still continued until one year later, a mysterious lead coffin was discovered. 

This coffin was placed inside a large limestone of sarcophagus.

Mathew Morris from the University of Leicester was the one who led the team of archaeologists where they have found a skeleton of an elderly women inside the mysterious lead coffin. 

They found the coffin just a few feet away from the grave site of king Richard III.

According to the archaeological experts, the women was probably the early benefactor of the friary. 

It is because due to the radiocarbon dating, she might have been buried before the church was even built in 1250. 

However, through the analysis of her death, it shows that her death could have taken place in the late 1400.

10 Coffins Discovered

There were actually 10 coffins that were discovered by Mathew Morris and his team. The four coffins (including the one mentioned above) were examined and they contain all female remains while the six other coffins were left undisturbed.

One among those ten coffins that were examine was a female with high status. Her lead coffin has an inlaid crucifix and was buried in presbytery of the friary's church probably close to the high altar. 

This alone means that she had a special status in the holy Catholic order.

The other two graves were found inside the choir where it contained wooden coffins. When examined, there were two remains of females with an estimated ages of between 40 to 50 years old. 

Based from the radiocarbon dating, it shows that they have died between 1270 to 1400.

When one of the female remains had undergone osteological examinations, it was found out that she suffered from a congenital hip dislocation. 

Thus, a conclusion was derived that she needed a crutch in order to walk.

The other women seemed to have spent her entire life doing hard physical labor. Her arms and legs shows a strong evidence of lifting heavy loads. 

But, what really bothers the archaeologists is her presence as one of the buried remains in the area that were reserved only for the wealthy benefactors and people with high social status.

As for the fourth coffin, it also contain a female remain. At first, the archaeologists thought that it was probably another women who lived a life of hard physical work. 

But through the analysis of the experts, it shows that the women had a highly-varied and protein-rich diet that only wealthy individuals can consume during the period of her time. 

Other than that, she is believed to have died at an early age of mid 20's.

One of the Female Remain Could be Emma

The only document on today's historical record about the time of burials (700 years ago) into the site was a lady named, "Emma". 

She was the wife of John Holt. However, the document does not contain much information for the archaeologist to distinguish her remains. 

They have no clue on how she looked like, her age at death and the exact location of her grave.

Mathew even claimed that it is impossible to determine if one of those skeletons was Emma due to the lack of information. 

If only she have a known descendants on this generation, a DNA testing can be done. Unfortunately, there is none.

Moreover, Mathew and his team of archaeologists believes that the mysterious lead coffins that they have uncovered will provide a lot of other interesting insights about the lives of the people in the period of medieval Leicester.

Wooden Coffin of a Male | Pre Inca Moche

A dead remain of a human male was discovered by archeologists at the pre-Inca Moche society in Peru. 

He was buried along the tomb of powerful priestesses contained inside a wooden coffin with copper lattice and gilded mask decorations.

 
The people of the pre-Inca Moche were composed of farmers who occupied the arid coasts territory of Peru at around 100 to 1000 A.D. 

And based from the archaeologists, they believe that the women of this society have dominated the authority of leading their people. This is the reason why there were seven royal priestess burials.

Luis Jaime Castillo Butters of the Catholic University of Peru in Lima was the one who led the team of archeologists who started the excavations of the double-chambered Moche tomb. 

And behind their excavation project, they were funded partially by the National Geographic Society's Committee for Research and Exploration.

Castillo and his team were actually expecting female remains because they were working on royal priestess burial sites. 

But, they never expected to uncover a rattle-wielding elite male contained by the wooden coffin. This was very puzzling to them.

More Dead Remains Discovered Inside the Tomb

As Castillo and his team continued on their excavation and exploration of the tomb, they found a ramp that led into the first chamber. 

When they explored it, they found bones of a young human male and at the corner were bones that belongs to a llama animal. 

According to Castillo, these human and animal remains probably serves as a sacrifices.

The archeologists had again discovered another second chamber. And on this second room, they had found more human remains. 

It consists of two females and one male arranged in their simple burials. But just like the other remains in the previous room, the team speculates that they were also probably sacrifices. 

In addition to the trio, there was another young male that sat on a cross-legged form in the same room.

In 2008, Castillo and his team managed to excavate a tomb that belonged to a priestess. Strange though that the tomb was simply alongside the tomb of the elite male with wooden coffin.

Overall, nobody can still confirm the events that took place into those burial sites. Especially the male with the wooden coffin who was a part of the main complex burial layout. 

This man probably have an equal power of authority to the priestesses. But, how come that he was the only man granted with such power?

Black Coffins Are Nuclear Power Detectors

If most individuals' own personal opinion about the contents of the black coffin treasure is plutonium, we actually came across on our research here on the internet that one person claimed that the contents of those boxes are "nuclear power detectors".

These nuclear power detectors were actually devices that were intended to detect any vessel or submarine that passes over them. 

This is probably the reason why some fisher often felt their small boat engine malfunctioned while cruising over the dropped zone of those black boxes. 

Thus, the US Navy didn't just dropped their black coffin in the Philippine seas but on other parts of the world as well. 

They had strategically dropped them off on places like bays, straits and other common pathways of vessels and submarines.

According to some sources from the US Embassy, those black coffins were dropped somewhere in the early 50's up to the late 60's. 

These boxes does not contain plutonium but they are machines designed to capture underwater sounds particularly generated by vessel or submarine engines. 

Once these machine-boxes detected such mechanical sounds, the machine will immediately transmit the data gathered in a designated headquarters for analysis. 

Through these machines, the US Intelligence Agency will be able to determine the type of vessel or submarine, possible country of origin and etc...

Unfortunately, rumors came out that these black coffins contains precious plutonium. 

Some speculations claims that commodity brokers simply made this part of the story as a form of enticing curious financiers to fund their project. 

And at the end, the commodity brokers will be the one who makes money out from their financier victims.

With the growing interest of recovering the black coffin treasures, many of these boxes has already been recovered on various parts of the world particularly by treasure hunters. 

As a result, the US Intelligence community had lost many signals and had decided to abandon utilizing these machines. 

Thank goodness that through the fast-paced improvement of our technology, spy satellites has been invented as the perfect replacement.

Since the black coffins (according to the US Embassy) doesn't really contain plutonium, this is probably the reason why the US Military claims that they are not giving any rewards to those who can find and locate these black coffin boxes for them. 

Or, it is probably a cover up not to boosts the interest of all underwater explorer to hunt and recover these objects.

When You are Cremated What Happens to the Coffin?

If it happens that you died and you choose to be cremated, what actually happens to the coffin? Does it get burned along with your body or is it reused by others?

The answer actually depends on the cultural tradition of a certain country or place that you follow. In most Western Countries, they burn the coffin along with the dead body. 

While in most Asian Countries, they directly burn the body without the coffin.

U.S. Cremation Tradition

In the United States, most casket manufacturers offers several coffins that are designed for cremation purposes. 

These coffins are made out of combustible materials particularly wood to ensure that everything gets burned on the cremation process.

On some States, the dead body is placed inside a container that is made out of corrugated cardboard box. 

During the Funeral Service, the container is inserted into a well designed traditional casket to make it look very presentable to the mourners. 

But once the service is done, the inserted box containing the dead body will be taken out from the traditional casket to be cremated.

There are actually some Funeral Homes that offers rentals of their available caskets. These are the types of caskets with traditional and presentable designs. 

And since they are rental caskets, they are designed with removable beds and liners. These beds and liners are the once that get's replaced after each use.

U.K's Cremation Tradition

UK have a strict policy when it comes to cremation of their dead. The dead body is actually cremated entirely along with the coffin. Thus, every coffins that undergoes cremation procedure must be closely examined.

Aside from the materials used in building the coffin (which must be made out of combustible materials), the dead body must not be wearing any metallic objects such as jewelries. 

It's because according to UK's Code of Cremation Practice, opening a coffin at the crematorium is highly prohibited.

Once the cremation process is complete, the burnt remains will pass through a magnetic field that picks up all of the unnecessary metals. These metals won't be given to the family but to be interred in the crematorium grounds or recycled. 

Only the ashes are given back to the family. Otherwise, the ashes will be scattered in the crematorium grounds.

Australia's Cremation Tradition

Just like in the UK and US, Australia follows the same tradition of cremating their dead along with their coffins. Today, there is a growing number of manufacturers offering cardboard coffins and particle-board coffins. Particle-board coffins (aka "chippie") are actually best recommended for those on a tight budget.

Japan's Cremation Tradition

The Japanese style of cremation is far different from the three countries mentioned above. But similarly, the Japanese also place their dead in a coffin during the funeral period. 

What makes their cremation procedure different is that, the coffin is placed on a tray in the crematorium. 

As the family get's to witness the entire process, they get a final glimpse of the body of their passed love once as it slides out from the coffin down into the cremation chamber to get burned into ashes. 

This scares most of the small children giving them psychological trauma throughout their entire lives.

Thailand and Other South East Asian Countries Cremation Tradition

In Thailand and some other South East Asian Countries, they actually follow the same tradition of cremating their dead. 

There's a lot of chanting involve particularly performed by the monks and elders. And of course, the dead is placed in a coffin.

When it comes to the cremation procedure, the coffin is placed on a pyre made of bricks. 

Then, after the final chanting of the monks, each people who came to mourn comes close to the coffin with their own lighted torches of candles, incense and fragrant woods tossing them right on the coffin. 

This is exactly how the cremation process takes place.

The coffin will continue to get burned until nothing is left but ashes. These ashes are then collected and stored in an urn for the family of the dead to keep.

Moreover, do you have a different form of tradition in cremating your dead? 

Is it the same as cremating them along with their coffins? 

Feel free to share them up on the Comment Form provided below.

Solid Gold Coffin of king Tutankhamun

"King Tutankhamun's" solid golden coffin was finally discovered in November 1922 by Howard Carter and his sponsor, Lord Carnavon. 

This is an ancient Egyptian tomb that remained hidden for over 3,000 years in the place called "Valley of the Kings" at Thebes.

But first, who is king Tutankhamun?

King Tutankhamun was an Egyptian pharaoh who reigned from about 1337 to 1328 BC. He actually became a pharaoh at such a very young age of only 9 years old. 

But according to the forensic analysis, he only reigned for around 9 years period. Thus, he died at the age of 18.

Even with the advance technology that we have today, experts could not find any positive evidence on how Tutankhamun died. 

Based on the X-Ray of the mummy in 1968, the scientists had discovered bone fragments in his skull. This gives them the theory that the boy was probably hit on the head with a hard object.

Another theory of king Tutankhamun's death was the CT scan. It was actually featured in the National Geographic that the mummy's leg has a thin coating of embalming resin around the leg. 

This suggests that Tut already had a leg injury before he died. So the other aspect of his death was that, his leg injury may have resulted into a serious infection that caused the boy's unfortunate death.

Series of Golden Coffins

Of all the ancient Egyptian pharaohs, the one who remained famous of them all up until today was king Tutakhamun. 

It was not because of his leadership as a king or leading his empire to progress but due to his highly decorated coffin that astounded the world.

What really makes king Tut's coffin so remarkable is that, it is not just made of one coffin but a series of three coffins. 

And that's not all, these coffins were also encased again into another big quartzite sarcophagus which has been placed into another series of four shrines.

The innermost three series of coffins bears the shape of a human figure (aka anthropoid coffins). All these three coffins were painted in the image of the king. 

When it comes to Egyptian beliefs, these paintings were very important because they do believe that it provides the dead a face in their afterlife.

The first two coffins of Tut were made of gilded wood but the third and final coffin that contains the mummy was made out of solid gold. Tut's mummified remains also wore a fabulous golden death mask.

Moreover, other than king Tutankhamun's coffins, there are many other richly decorated and covered in gold objects contained inside the tomb. 

The Egyptians believed that these objects were needed by the king on his afterlife. Today, you can now pay a visit into these objects at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Ancient Gold Coffin in Cambodia Looted

In Cambodia, the Ministry of Culture were frowned when treasure hunters had looted one of the ancient sandstone coffin containing gold and copper along with the skeleton's remnants of clothing with three gold buttons on it. 

According to the report, the group was composed of three treasure hunters where they sold their findings into a local businessman for thousands of dollars.

Those responsible treasure hunters doesn't really know what they had just done. They just damaged and stole an 11th century coffin at an abandoned temple of Prasat Boeng Mea Lea in Siem Prea province. 

And that's not all, the coffin was the only known burial form of putting the dead to rest. It was because in the ancient Khmer history, they were opposed to cremation practices.

Khun Samen, the director of the National Museum has been very disappointed that the coffin was badly damaged. He stated that the coffin and the contained remains should have been in the National Museum for the benefit of all Cambodian people.

Samen further stated that he had actually never seen or heard about any discovery of ancient coffin in Cambodia with remains. It is due to the reason that cremation is more traditionally favored than burial. 

Thus, the discovery of the coffin would have provided a lot of insights to the researchers who can also share any of their interesting findings to the world.

In the entire history of Cambodia, there is actually yet any coffin discovered that contained skeleton remains. 

Most of them simply contained ashes which were cremated. Except this newly discovered coffin that happens to be looted by a group of treasure hunters.

Some archeologists and Suman believes that the coffin probably belonged to a king. It's because ordinary people never had metal coffins instead they were given wooden types. 

And in addition, the bodies were cremated but the one discovered on was not. 

In fact, there was an archaeological excavation of the burial sites in Angkor Wat area back in the 1960s but all they had found were cremated ashes of the dead.

It really puzzles the archeologists and the Cultural Ministry as to why the newly found golden coffin contains a body in it despite the fact that it was dated back from the 11th century.

Moreover, when news about the golden coffin came out from the news, a lot of people raced towards the area in the hope of uncovering the same discovery. 

And as a result, there were some reports that some people had found valuable artifacts. 

Worst, it is unlikely that these ancient relics won't be given to the National Museum. They will surely get sold to private collectors for better offer. 

Thus, the National Museum needs to buy it from them but Samen claims that the museum lacks some funds.

FAQs about the Ancient Gold Coffin

Q: What is the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia that was looted?

A: The ancient gold coffin in Cambodia is a rare artifact believed to be over a thousand years old. It is made of solid gold and is intricately decorated with designs and inscriptions in ancient Khmer script.

Q: When was the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia looted?

A: The ancient gold coffin in Cambodia was reportedly looted in the 1970s during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Q: Who looted the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia?

A: It is unclear who specifically looted the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia, but it is believed to have been taken by smugglers who then sold it to a private collector.

Q: Where is the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia currently located?

A: The current location of the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia is unknown. It was last seen in public in the 1960s at a museum in Phnom Penh.

Q: Why is the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia important?

A: The ancient gold coffin in Cambodia is an important artifact because it provides insight into the ancient Khmer civilization and its funerary practices. It is also a valuable cultural treasure that represents the heritage of Cambodia.

Q: What is being done to recover the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia?

A: Efforts have been made to recover the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia, but so far, it has not been located. The Cambodian government has been working with international organizations to track down the artifact and bring it back to Cambodia.

Q: What are the legal implications of looting and possessing the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia?

A: Looting and possessing the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia is illegal under Cambodian law, as well as international laws and conventions. Those who are found to have been involved in the looting and trafficking of the artifact could face legal repercussions. 

Q: How can people help in the recovery of the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia?

A: People can help in the recovery of the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia by spreading awareness about the artifact and its cultural significance, and by reporting any information they may have about its whereabouts to the relevant authorities or organizations.

Q: Why is looting of archaeological artifacts a problem?

A: Looting of archaeological artifacts is a problem because it destroys the context and historical value of the artifact. 

When an artifact is removed from its original site, it loses its connection to its surrounding archaeological features, making it difficult for archaeologists to understand and interpret its meaning and purpose. 

Looting also deprives future generations of their cultural heritage and contributes to the illegal trade in cultural artifacts.

Q: How can looting of archaeological artifacts be prevented?

A: Looting of archaeological artifacts can be prevented by implementing strong laws and regulations to deter looters, protecting archaeological sites through patrolling and monitoring, educating the public on the importance of cultural heritage, and providing alternative economic opportunities for local communities.

Q: What are the consequences of the looting of the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia?

A: The consequences of the looting of the ancient gold coffin in Cambodia include the loss of a valuable cultural artifact, the destruction of its archaeological context and historical value, and the perpetuation of the illegal trade in cultural artifacts. 

The looting also undermines the efforts of the Cambodian government and international organizations to protect and preserve the cultural heritage of Cambodia.

Q: What is the significance of the ancient Khmer civilization?

A: The ancient Khmer civilization, which existed from the 9th to the 15th century, is significant for its architectural, artistic, and cultural achievements. 

It is most well-known for its monumental religious structures, such as the Angkor Wat temple complex, which is considered one of the greatest architectural wonders of the world. 

The Khmer civilization also made significant contributions to art, literature, music, and dance, and their cultural traditions continue to influence Cambodian society today.

Q: What is the role of international organizations in the recovery of looted cultural artifacts?

A: International organizations play an important role in the recovery of looted cultural artifacts by providing expertise, resources, and support to governments and local organizations. 

They can help to track down and identify looted artifacts, raise awareness about their cultural significance, and work to prevent the illegal trade in cultural artifacts. 

International organizations can also facilitate the return of looted artifacts to their country of origin and support efforts to protect and preserve cultural heritage.