When you think of a burial ground, you might picture solemn rows of headstones or perhaps a haunted haunt. Yet the world is dotted with cemeteries that double as postcard‑perfect lookouts, where artful tombs meet jaw‑dropping scenery. In this guide we count down the 10 scenic burial sites that combine unforgettable views with unforgettable final resting places.

10 Scenic Burial Gems

10 Varenna Cemetery, Italy

Lake Como, a magnet for sunny holiday‑makers, also hides one of the globe’s most striking burial grounds. Perched right on the lake’s edge, Varenna Cemetery offers an unbroken panorama of sapphire‑blue water and the craggy peaks that rise behind it. The site’s intimate scale lets visitors soak in the tranquil ambience while still feeling the grandeur of the surrounding Alpine scenery.

The cemetery is literally carved into the hillside; the larger mausoleums nestle into the slope above, while modest tombstones line the promenade that hugs the lake. A couple of local hiking routes weave through the grounds, even leading adventurers to the dramatic ruins of Vezio Castle. Because it sits off the main tourist trail, Varenna remains a peaceful spot for quiet reflection.

9 Père Lachaise Cemetery, France

Founded in 1804 under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte, Père Lachaise is a sprawling 108‑acre (44‑hectare) park in the heart of Paris that draws roughly three million visitors each year, making it the world’s most frequented necropolis. Its appeal lies in the sheer number of graves—about 70,000—many of which are sculpted with artistic flair and set among graceful trees and manicured shrubbery.

Among the famous occupants, writer Oscar Wilde’s tomb is famously smothered in lipstick‑kiss graffiti, while musician Jim Morrison’s modest stone is perpetually adorned with bouquets and fan‑left gifts. Other photogenic spots include writer Georges Rodenbach’s grave, where a statue bursts dramatically from the tomb, and journalist Victor Noir’s bronze figure, notable for its oversized trouser bulge that, according to legend, grants fertility luck when rubbed.

8 Sunset Chapel, Mexico

Set against the rugged backdrop of Acapulco, Sunset Chapel was conceived to serve a dual purpose: celebrate the union of marriage and honor the passage of the departed. The architectural firm BNKR let this contrast of beginnings and endings shape every design decision, from the interplay of glass versus concrete to the balance of transparency against solidity.

Designed to echo the striking landscape, the structure mimics a massive granite boulder that dots the mountainside. Its orientation is equally clever—on the equinox, the setting sun aligns perfectly with a glass altar cross. The crypt resides at ground level, while the chapel itself crowns the upper floor, offering worshippers an unforgettable sunrise‑to‑sunset experience.

7 Mausoleum of Poets, Iran

In Tabriz, Iran, the Mausoleum of Poets stands as an imposing tribute to more than 400 literary and cultural figures. The building’s striking interlocking arches fuse modernist lines with traditional motifs, creating a bold silhouette that dominates the skyline.

Construction spanned a decade, culminating in 1982, yet the site’s burial tradition stretches back centuries. Earlier mausoleums were repeatedly destroyed by floods and earthquakes, but 14th‑century texts hint at a long‑standing sacred ground. Today, poets, mystics, activists and politicians share this remarkable resting place.

6 St. Andrews Cathedral, Scotland

Ruins exude atmosphere, and the once‑magnificent St. Andrews Cathedral offers a spectacular example, perched on Scotland’s coast with sweeping views of the North Sea. Though now a crumbling skeleton, the cathedral’s massive walls loom over an adjacent graveyard, lending a dramatic backdrop to the gravestones below.

Construction began around 1160, but a fierce storm in 1272 halted progress, and later the First War of Scottish Independence delayed completion until 1318, when King Robert the Bruce himself attended the consecration. The cathedral became Scotland’s largest church and the Catholic headquarters before being abandoned in 1561 amid the rise of Protestantism.

5 Chichicastenango Cemetery, Guatemala

In the Maya town of Chichicastenango, the local cemetery bursts into a kaleidoscope of color, with vivid crosses and mausoleums painted in a rainbow of hues. This chromatic display isn’t merely decorative; each shade carries cultural meaning—white for purity, turquoise for protection, yellow for the sun—reflecting deep indigenous traditions.

Some families break from convention, choosing a loved one’s favorite color instead. Every year, during the Day of the Dead in early November, the community scrubs and repaints the tombs, ensuring the cemetery remains a bright, living tribute to the departed.

4 Neptune Memorial Reef, USA

Off Florida’s coast lies Neptune Memorial Reef, an underwater cemetery where the departed literally rest with the fish. Families can scatter ashes that are carefully blended with a natural concrete mixture, then molded into artistic structures bearing engraved copper plaques.

Multiple sets of remains can share a single placement, and even pets may be included. Visitors reach the reef by boat or scuba dive, encountering both the sculptural installations and thriving marine life. Once finished, the reef will span 16 acres (6.5 hectares) and accommodate the remains of up to 250,000 individuals.

3 Makomanai Takino Cemetery, Japan

While Okunoin is famed for its forested serenity, Sapporo’s Makomanai Takino Cemetery offers its own visual feast. The entrance corridor is lined with about 40 stone replicas of Easter Island’s iconic Moai heads, and a full‑size Stonehenge replica adds a touch of mystique.

The star attraction, however, is a towering Buddha carved into a hollowed hill. Peeking from the summit, the 44‑foot (13.5‑meter) statue watches over visitors who pass through a tunnel beneath the hill, emerging to see the Buddha framed against a sky‑filled halo.

2 Myra Necropolis, Turkey

Carved into a cliff face, the Myra Necropolis dates back to the 4th‑century BC Lycian era and splits into two sections: the ocean necropolis and the river necropolis. Though weathered, the rock‑cut tombs—some resembling homes, others temples—were once painted in vibrant colors.

The famed “Lion Tomb,” named for a lion‑and‑bull carving on its façade, contains eleven life‑size stone statues thought to represent the tomb owner’s relatives. Beyond the tombs, visitors enjoy sweeping views of Myra’s ruins, including a well‑preserved semi‑circular theater and the historic Church of St. Nicholas.

1 City of the Dead, Russia

Hidden in a Caucasus valley, the village of Dargavs in Russia hosts the eerie City of the Dead—a necropolis of 99 above‑ground crypts framed by rugged mountains. The origin of these stone chambers remains mysterious, though theories point to the 13th‑century Mongol‑Tatar invasions or Sarmatian burial customs that favored above‑ground interment.

Plague outbreaks in the 17th and 18th centuries likely increased the number of bodies placed within the crypts, and evidence suggests that infected individuals were quarantined there while awaiting death. Today, the stark beauty of the crypts against the mountain backdrop offers a hauntingly scenic final resting place.

We’ve all heard of the Final Destination premise – people cheat death only to have fate catch up shortly thereafter. The following 10 stories people survived astonishing catastrophes, yet each met an unexpected demise not directly linked to their original brush with death. Buckle up for a wild ride through these uncanny survivals.

10 stories people: Unbelievable Near‑Deaths Followed By Tragic Ends

10. Hilda Yolanda Mayol

Hilda Yolanda Mayol was employed at a restaurant inside the World Trade Center. Because her shift was on the ground floor, she managed to get out unharmed during the September 11 attacks. Her luck, however, proved fleeting. Just two months later, on November 12 2001, she perished in the American Airlines Flight 587 crash in Queens, New York, becoming one of the 265 victims.

At the time, Mayol was 26 and was traveling to the Dominican Republic to reunite with her mother and children. Rumors circulated that other passengers on Flight 587 had also escaped 9/11, but those claims were never verified.

9. Ye Meng Yuan

Sixteen‑year‑old Ye Meng Yuan boarded Asiana Airlines Flight 214 in 2013, heading from China to Southern California for a summer camp. The aircraft touched down too low and too slow, resulting in a hard landing that caused the plane to crash.

Yuan survived the impact but sustained injuries. As she lay on the tarmac, a fire truck racing to the scene ran over her, delivering the fatal blow. The crash and subsequent fire‑truck accident claimed three lives, including hers.

Numerous lawsuits were filed against the airline, but two years later the plaintiffs’ counsel announced a confidential settlement, ending the legal battle.

8. Fagilyu Mukhametzyanov

Everyone makes mistakes, but some are life‑altering. In 2011, 49‑year‑old Fagilyu Mukhametzyanov suffered a heart attack at home and was declared dead by her doctors. The story didn’t end there.

She startled everyone by waking up inside her own coffin during her funeral, screaming. Moments later she suffered another heart attack, was rushed back to the hospital, and after a brief 12‑minute survival, she was pronounced dead for good.

Her husband, furious at the medical team, vowed to pursue legal action, demanding answers for the shocking sequence of events.

7. David Furr

On December 13 1977, the University of Evansville’s men’s basketball squad, the Purple Aces, boarded a twin‑engine aircraft bound for Middle Tennessee State University. Shortly after takeoff, the plane crashed, killing all 29 aboard.

Freshman David Furr survived because an ankle injury had kept him from traveling with the team. His brief reprieve was cruelly short‑lived; two weeks later, he and his brother were struck and killed by a drunk driver, completing the tragic tally of the entire team’s deaths that year.

6. Jessica Ghawi

Jessica Ghawi, known professionally as Jessica Redfield, was an aspiring sportscaster who narrowly avoided the June 2012 Eaton Centre food‑court shooting in Toronto. She had ordered a meal but chose to step outside just before the gunfire erupted, sparing her life.

She later explained that an inexplicable feeling prompted her to leave, a hunch that proved lifesaving.

Tragically, a month later she fell victim to the Aurora, Colorado, theater shooting during a midnight showing of The Dark Knight Rises. The gunman killed 12 patrons, including Ghawi.

5. Bobby Leach

Bobby Leach earned fame as a daredevil, famously surviving a barrel plunge over Niagara Falls. He engineered a steel barrel, survived the torrent, and spent six months recuperating from his injuries.

His stunt propelled him into the public eye, leading to worldwide tours where he recounted his harrowing feat. Yet fate had a quirky twist in store.

In 1926, after delivering a lecture in New Zealand, Leach slipped on an orange peel. The fall caused severe injuries, leading to an infection that required leg amputation. Weakness set in, and he passed away on April 26 1926.

4. Phyllis Jean Ridings And Elzie Warren

In 2007, 52‑year‑old Phyllis Jean Ridings and her 70‑year‑old father, Elzie Warren, survived a homemade‑plane crash after the engine ignited mid‑flight. They executed an emergency landing in a hayfield, emerging unscathed and crediting divine protection and Warren’s piloting skill.

Four years later, the duo, both members of the Experimental Aircraft Association, embarked on another flight to a Texas air show. This time, smoke filled the cockpit, and their desperate attempt at an emergency landing ended in a fiery crash that claimed both of their lives.

3. Marcus Garvey

Jamaican political leader Marcus Garvey, a champion of Black Nationalism and Pan‑Africanism, founded the Black Star Line and inspired countless followers. On June 10 1940, Garvey read an obituary that declared he had died “broke, alone, and unpopular.”

The shocking news triggered two strokes, which proved fatal. While Garvey’s death may not fit the classic near‑death narrative, the eerie coincidence of reading his own obituary moments before passing adds a chilling twist to his story.

2. Johanna Ganthaler

Italian senior citizen Johanna Ganthaler was vacationing in Brazil with her husband when they missed the May 31 2009 Air France Flight 447, which later crashed into the Atlantic, killing all 228 aboard.

Choosing to return home a day later, they flew to Europe and rented a car for the journey home. While driving near Kufstein, Austria, their vehicle veered into oncoming traffic and collided with a truck. Ganthaler succumbed to her injuries at a hospital, while her husband survived with serious wounds.

1. Jessica de Lima Rohl

In 2013, a catastrophic fire ripped through a Brazilian nightclub, claiming over 200 lives and injuring hundreds. Jessica de Lima Rohl, 21, had helped organize the event but stayed home at her boyfriend’s request, a decision that saved her from the blaze.

A few days later, while visiting her boyfriend at work, the couple embarked on their return journey. Their car collided head‑on with a truck, killing Rohl instantly; her boyfriend later died in the hospital.

These ten narratives illustrate how fate can intervene in the most unexpected ways, turning near‑miraculous survivals into tragic conclusions.

10 delights try – More accurately the title is Ten Foods, Drinks, and Destinations to Try Before You Die. I don’t presume you’re on a death‑row, but a little mortality‑themed humor never hurts. As Marcus Aurelius mused, “Death smiles at us all. What can a man do, but smile back?” And Seneca? He urged, “Bibamus. Moriendum est,” which translates to “Dying is unavoidable – so let’s get drunk.” Think of it as a festive bucket list for the living.

10. Delights try: Your Ultimate Bucket List

10. Macallan 25-Year-Old Scotch

I sampled a single shot in a sleek New York scotch bar, paying about $30 – undeniably steep. A full fifth of the 25‑year‑old Macallan will set you back roughly $600, but the moment those amber notes hit your palate, you’ll understand why the price is justified. Imagine sipping a warm campfire that gives you a comforting hug and whispers, “I’m your new best friend.”

If you crave scenery with your dram, head to Loch Morlich in winter, just southeast of Aviemore. Snow‑capped shores and gentle streams provide the perfect backdrop, and you can almost hear the hidden distilleries whispering their secrets into the wind.

9. Spotted Dick

Don’t let the name mislead you – there’s nothing contagious about it. Also known as Plum Duff, this classic British pudding combines dried currants, a silky custard, and a generous splash of rum. Upscale eateries often drown it in a glug of your favorite rum, letting the spirit mingle with the sweet fruit. As the swashbuckling Long John Silver would put it, “That be what gives it the flavor! Ha haargh!”

8. Churrasco

Churrasco isn’t a single dish but a South‑American tradition of grilling an assortment of meats – beef, pork, lamb, chicken, even fresh seafood – all sliced straight from the fire. In Brazil and Argentina you’ll often find all‑you‑can‑eat spreads accompanied by corn, rice, and tropical fruits like mango, especially in Belém, nicknamed the “City of Mango Trees.”

Belém also serves as a gateway to the Amazon without the jungle‑danger vibe. Though it sits on the coast, a short 20‑30‑mile boat ride up the Pará or Tocantins Rivers (tributaries of the Amazon estuary) lands you in pristine rainforest scenery, perfect for a day of exploration.

If you’re a fan of creepy critters, keep an eye out for the massive Goliath bird‑eating spider, often perched 50 feet up the riverbanks. And don’t miss the iconic Amazon macaw, their vibrant flocks soaring overhead as you glide through the emerald canopy.

7. Pizza

Born in the bustling streets of Napoli, pizza was a humble creation of dough, tomatoes, and cheese for the city’s poorer folk. Fast‑forward centuries, and the classic Neapolitan pie remains the gold standard, especially when you venture to a family‑run pizzeria in Naples itself.

While New York boasts its own iconic slice, the authentic Neapolitan experience hinges on two key ingredients: San Marzano tomatoes, cultivated on the volcanic slopes of Mount Vesuvius, and mozzarella di Bufala Campana, crafted from the milk of Campanian water buffalo. The volcanic soil imparts a sweet, slightly smoky flavor that elevates the whole pie.

To truly appreciate the craft, grab a table with a view of Vesuvius. Watching the volcano’s silhouette while biting into a blistering, cheese‑laden slice creates a sensory marriage of fire and flavor you won’t forget.

6. Fire-Roasted Lamb

Greece knows how to blend beach bliss with mountain majesty, and Stavros on Crete delivers both in spades. The Aegean Sea sparkles with a hue that photographers claim needs no filter, while the nearby Akrotiri hills burst with colors that demand sunglasses.

At sunset, locals spit‑roast lamb over an open flame, basting it repeatedly with sliced apples. The result is tender, aromatic meat served alongside smoky eggplant dip (tzatziki), stuffed grape leaves, a glass of robust Greek red, and a slice of homemade baklava that makes store‑bought versions look like cardboard.

After dinner, join the convivial crowd for a shot of ouzo – an anise‑flavored spirit – and then dance the sirtaki on the beach, just like the iconic scene from “Zorba the Greek” starring Anthony Quinn. It’s a night you’ll remember long after the lamb’s flavor fades.

5. Sachertorte

Vienna’s culinary crown jewel, the Sachertorte, lives on at the historic Hotel Sacher. This dense chocolate cake layers apricot jam between its silky strata, then receives a glossy coat of dark chocolate icing that gleams like midnight.

Tradition dictates a side of lightly sweetened whipped cream to counterbalance the cake’s richness. While you’re in the Austrian capital, pay homage to its musical legends – Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms, and Strauss – by visiting the grand Central Cemetery where many rest.

Cap off the experience with a night at the opera or a symphonic performance. Whether you choose Beethoven’s Ninth or Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” the music will echo the decadence of the cake you just devoured.

4. Trockenbeerenauslese

Germany’s wine crown jewel, Trockenbeerenauslese, is an ultra‑sweet white wine that pours like liquid honey. With up to 300 grams of sugar per bottle, it’s essentially a dessert in a glass, perfect for those who’ve ever been let down by a dry, bitter vintage.

Its alcohol content is modest, allowing you to sip generously without becoming intoxicated too quickly. Pair it with a hefty, salty pretzel to let the wine’s sweetness dance against the brine, creating a harmonious contrast.

Set your palate against the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps – perhaps the Black Forest – where the scenery is as indulgent as the wine itself. The alpine air, crisp and pure, makes every sip feel like a celebration.

3. Lobster and Cracked Crab

Harbor Island, Bahamas, flaunts pink‑sand beaches that look like a watercolor painting. The laid‑back town of Dunmore serves up succulent lobster and cracked crab right on the shore, letting you dine with the ocean’s lullaby as your soundtrack.

Imagine biting into fresh seafood while the sun dips behind swaying palms, casting a golden glow over quartz‑speckled sand. The water’s clarity amplifies the pink hue, making each grain shimmer like a tiny gem.

If you’re lucky, a herd of wild horses will trot out of the surf, pausing to sniff the salty air before disappearing back into the waves – a fleeting, magical moment you’ll never forget.

2. Romanee-Conti

Domaine de la Romanée‑Conti, a minuscule vineyard covering just four acres, yields a mere 5,000 bottles annually. Each bottle commands reverence, with vintage releases ranging from $900 a glass to $3,600 a bottle, and some rare years fetching up to $14,000 at auction.

Describing its taste is a challenge; connoisseurs say it transcends ordinary flavors, offering a symphony of earth, fruit, and subtle spice that lingers eternally on the palate.

Pair this liquid gold with a stunning backdrop – perhaps the artistic cafés of Paris, or the rugged Chartreuse Mountains near Grenoble. Whether you sip beside the Eiffel Tower or amid alpine peaks, the experience is unforgettable.

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

Bologna, Italy, proudly claims the title of the world’s spaghetti capital. Known locally as “di Grassa” or “the Fat One,” the city serves up the most authentic Bolognese sauce, a harmonious marriage of minced meat, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

While Chinese cuisine invented noodles, the Italian tomato‑based sauce remains uniquely Italian. New York may boast a vibrant food scene, but nothing rivals the depth of flavor found in Bologna’s trattorias.

Seek out Clorofilla on Strada Maggiore (64, 40125 Bologna) for a plate that rivals any home‑cooked masterpiece. Afterward, wander the city’s historic streets, perhaps drive north to the Apennines for panoramic mountain vistas, or head south to Florence to gaze upon Michelangelo’s David and other Renaissance treasures.

While in the region, attend a performance of Verdi’s Requiem Mass – a powerful, soul‑stirring experience that will leave you humming the melodies long after the final note fades.

Laughter may be the best medicine, but just like any prescription, taking too much can have hazardous side‑effects. While most of us only end up with sore ribs or a damp pair of underwear, a handful of unfortunate souls discovered that 10 things will actually be fatal when they trigger an uncontrollable guffaw.

Why 10 Things Will Catch Your Breath

Across centuries and continents, history records a strange collection of anecdotes where a burst of mirth led straight to the grave. From a British TV sketch to a medieval king’s jester, each tale shows that a hearty chuckle can sometimes be a literal death sentence.

10 A Little Light Entertainment

In the summer of 1975, Alex Mitchell settled in front of his television to watch a wildly surreal British comedy called The Goodies. The particular episode, “Kung Fu Capers,” featured the trio attempting to master a bizarrely British martial art known as “Ecky Thump,” where opponents wielded black pudding as weapons. Mitchell found the absurdity absolutely side‑splitting.

He laughed so hard that his heart gave out, plunging him into cardiac arrest. Doctors later suspected that Mitchell suffered from long QT syndrome, a hereditary heart‑rhythm disorder that can trigger a fatal arrhythmia when adrenaline spikes during intense excitement.

Following his untimely demise, family members were screened for the condition; his daughter was found to carry the same genetic trait, which can now be managed with medication and lifestyle adjustments.

In a touching post‑mortem note, Alex’s widow wrote to the three Goodies, thanking them for providing her husband with such joyous final moments.

9 A Night At The Opera

Back in 1782, the respectable Mrs. Fitzherbert attended a performance of The Beggar’s Opera at Drury Lane. Accustomed to a modest, perhaps sheltered existence as a clergyman’s widow, she was unprepared for the flamboyant spectacle of a man in full drag taking the stage.

The sight provoked an uncontrollable bout of laughter. Social etiquette of the opera house frowned upon such displays, so Mrs. Fitzherbert fled the auditorium, only to continue her hysterics in the street outside.

The Gentleman’s Magazine reported that she “could not banish the figure from her memory, was thrown into a fit of hysterics, which continued without intermission until Friday morning, when she expired.”

8 The Company Of Friends

In 1893, Indiana farmer Wesley Parsons gathered a group of close friends for an evening of food, drink, and merriment. Though his exact age remains unknown, contemporary accounts label him as “aged,” suggesting a seasoned gentleman with a taste for good company.

During the gathering, Parsons cracked a joke that sent him into a spiraling fit of laughter. He was “seized with a spell of laughing, being unable to stop.” The laughter persisted for an hour, then escalated into hiccoughing, and two hours later he succumbed to exhaustion.

The official record notes his death but, frustratingly, the punchline itself was never documented. Perhaps some jokes are best left unwritten, lest they prove lethal in the wrong hands.

7 Fine Art

Zeuxis, a celebrated painter of ancient Greece, earned renown for his depictions of deities and mythic figures. Though none of his canvases survive, historical texts describe his skill in rendering gods such as Zeus surrounded by fellow Olympians, and the love‑god Eros crowned with roses.

Legend tells that Zeuxis met his end while completing a portrait of Aphrodite. He had chosen to render the goddess as an elderly, unattractive crone, a decision that struck him as wildly absurd. Each glance at the canvas provoked louder, more uncontrollable laughter until he finally collapsed, dead from the exertion.

The story resonated through the ages: Dutch painter Aert de Gelder immortalized Zeuxis in a 1685 work, and Rembrandt’s self‑portrait titled Laughing is often interpreted as a nod to his ancient predecessor’s fatal mirth.

6 Beasts Of Burden

Donkeys are rarely celebrated for their comedic value, yet the stoic Greek philosopher Chrysippus found them downright hilarious. Known for his weighty treatises on metaphysics, materialist ontology, and determinism, his mind rarely drifted into the realm of the ridiculous.

One day, after a long session of heavy thinking, Chrysippus stumbled upon a donkey greedily devouring his figs. Amused, he shouted, “Now give the donkey a pure wine to wash down the figs!” The absurd image lingered in his mind, and he laughed until he fell to the floor, foaming at the mouth.

Scholars believe he died from laughter‑induced syncope—a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain that can cause unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, fatal brain injury.

5 A King

Thomas Urquhart, born in 1611, was a man of many contradictions—scholar, prankster, and possibly a touch of madness. He entered university at the astonishing age of eleven, fought for King Charles I, and earned a knighthood for his service. Later, he supported Charles II, only to be imprisoned in the Tower of London by Oliver Cromwell.

Urquhart claimed an implausible lineage, tracing his ancestry back to Adam and Eve, asserting that his forebears had rescued Moses from the bulrushes, and boasting connections to the Queen of Sheba, the mythical Fergus of Scotland, and the legendary King Arthur.

After Cromwell released him, the restoration of Charles II in 1660 triggered a sudden, uncontrollable bout of laughter—described in contemporary accounts as “excessive laughter”—which ultimately led to his death.

4 Sweet Dreams

Dreams are usually harmless, but for Thai ice‑cream‑truck driver Damnoen Saen‑um, a sweet slumber turned deadly. In 2003, his wife reported that he began laughing loudly in his sleep, a giggle that persisted for two minutes.

She tried to rouse him, but the laughter only intensified. Eventually, the uncontrollable mirth ceased abruptly as Damnoen stopped breathing, leading to his sudden death.

Medical experts suspect that the prolonged, intense laughter may have triggered a cardiac seizure, though the precise cause remains uncertain.

3 A Trip To The Movies

In 1989, Danish physician Ole Bentzen, reputedly in perfect health, decided to catch a screening of the zany comedy A Fish Called Wanda. When the scene arrived in which Kevin Kline shoves a pair of French fries up Michael Palin’s nose, Bentzen erupted in a fit of laughter.

Eyewitnesses claim his pulse skyrocketed to somewhere between 250 and 500 beats per minute, culminating in a heart attack. His assistant later recounted, “I was shocked to hear him break out laughing like that,” a remark that may have been about cinema etiquette—or perhaps about his sudden demise.

2 Reading The Paper

Inflation can kill, literally. In 1920, Sydney dog‑trainer Arthur Cobcroft unearthed a five‑year‑old newspaper and began comparing its listed prices to contemporary costs. The absurd disparity sent him into a cascade of uncontrollable laughter.

He joked with his wife about the ridiculous figures, but the mirth kept escalating. Unable to halt the laughter, he eventually collapsed, with the official cause of death recorded as heart failure brought on by excessive laughter.

1 Animal Cruelty

King Martin of Aragon holds the dubious distinction of being the only monarch known to have died from laughter. After a gluttonous feast of an entire goose, he suffered from severe bloating and indigestion. Seeking distraction, he summoned his court jester.

The jester, after a noticeable delay, arrived and recounted a bizarre sight: a young deer hanging by its tail from a vineyard tree, punished for pilfering figs. The absurd image sent the king into an unending roar of hilarity.

Despite his discomfort, Martin laughed for three relentless hours. Eventually, he tumbled out of bed, hitting the floor dead from the sheer physical strain of his mirth.

In an era where blockbuster tentpoles dominate the box office, Hollywood has become obsessed with squeezing every ounce of profit from long‑running series. This obsession has birthed the top 10 tired list of franchises that refuse to die, even as audiences grow weary. Below we break down each over‑extended saga and show how corporate greed keeps them alive against all odds.

Why These Top 10 Tired Franchises Keep Coming Back

10 Charlie’s Angels

While “Charlie’s Angels” originally aired as a beloved TV series in 1976, it wasn’t until the turn of the millennium that Hollywood truly recognized its cash‑cow potential, launching a high‑octane reboot starring Drew Barrymore, Lucy Liu, and Cameron Diaz. That spark fizzled quickly; a lackluster sequel in 2003 and a canceled third film left the brand dormant, yet studios have been clawing at its remnants for the past seventeen years.

The first revival attempt came as an animated feature slated for 2007, which vanished into development purgatory, followed by a short‑lived 2011 ABC series starring Minka Kelly that was axed after just four episodes—earning a reputation as one of television’s most disastrous turn‑offs. For a moment it seemed the “Charlie’s Angels” universe had finally been laid to rest.

Undeterred, Sony Pictures doubled down, delivering the 2019 reboot/sequel helmed by Elizabeth Banks and headlined by Kristen Stewart. The film sputtered at the box office, earning a meager $8 million opening weekend against a near‑$97 million budget, prompting the immediate cancellation of any planned sequels. Perhaps this finally sends a clear signal.

9 Men In Black

The inaugural two “Men In Black” outings were cultural phenomena, pairing Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones in a fresh, genre‑blending adventure that cemented the series’ place in pop culture. However, by the time “Men In Black 3” arrived in 2012, even its respectable box‑office performance couldn’t mask growing disappointment among fans and critics, who felt the magic had waned.

In an effort to revitalize the franchise, Sony floated a crossover with the newly rebooted “21 Jump Street,” even confirming Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum would reprise their roles. The project stalled in development hell, leading the studio to abandon the crossover concept in favor of a straight reboot.

The result was 2019’s “Men In Black: International,” featuring Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson as fresh agents. The film flopped both critically and commercially, causing any further plans to be shelved. Yet the cycle of reboots suggests another attempt may still be on the horizon.

8 Resident Evil

Video‑game adaptations have a notorious reputation for failure, yet 2002’s “Resident Evil” starring Milla Jovovich broke the mold, spawning a lucrative franchise despite its loose faithfulness to the source material. Over the next fourteen years, sequels grew increasingly convoluted and less beloved, eroding the series’ momentum.

In 2016, Sony’s Screen Gems wrapped up the saga with “Resident Evil: The Final Chapter,” a modestly received conclusion that many assumed marked the end. Studios, however, quickly signaled they weren’t done milking the brand.

After the 2017 “Resident Evil: Biohazard” reboot of the games, Variety reported a six‑film movie reboot with James Wan attached—an effort that fizzled before production. In 2020, a new project revisiting the first two games was announced, coinciding with Netflix’s trailer for an animated series debuting in 2021. These moves hint at continued attempts to resurrect the franchise’s relevance.

7 Pirates Of The Caribbean

Disney’s 2003 swashbuckler “Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl” turned a theme‑park ride into a cinematic triumph, introducing audiences to the iconic Jack Sparrow. The ensuing trilogy—“Dead Man’s Chest” and “At World’s End”—though not as universally adored, still delivered strong box‑office returns and solidified the series.

However, “Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” (2011) disappointed fans with a bland narrative and a sidelined original cast, reducing Sparrow to a caricature. Despite the backlash, the film turned a profit, prompting Disney to push forward with the universally panned 2017 “Dead Men Tell No Tales,” whose failure led to the cancellation of planned sequels.

Undeterred, Disney announced a “Pirates 6” reboot in 2018, dropping Johnny Depp from the lineup. Since then, reports have oscillated between cancellations, restarts, and writer departures—underscoring the studio’s refusal to abandon the franchise despite a clear lack of direction.

6 Alien

“In space, no one can hear you scream.” Ridley Scott’s 1979 “Alien” remains a towering achievement in sci‑fi horror, while James Cameron’s 1986 sequel “Aliens” set a benchmark for action‑packed storytelling. Both films introduced unforgettable heroes and terrifying antagonists, creating a benchmark that has been hard to match.

Following the missteps of “Alien 3” and “Alien Resurrection” in the ’90s, the 2000s saw studios attempting a crossover with “Alien vs. Predator” (2004) and its sequel (2007), which drained the franchise’s essence and left audiences disengaged.

Ridley Scott returned in 2012 with the prequel “Prometheus,” a divisive entry that polarized fans with its philosophical leanings. A subsequent attempt by Neill Blomkamp to craft a direct sequel to “Aliens,” featuring Sigourney Weaver, was abandoned, leading Scott to release “Alien: Covenant” in 2017—a lukewarm reception that left the franchise’s future uncertain, despite Scott’s hints of a possible sequel.

5 The Walking Dead

Once a cultural juggernaut rivaling “Game Of Thrones” and “Breaking Bad,” AMC’s “The Walking Dead” has devolved into a shadow of its former self, earning the dubious honor of “the greatest downfall in television history” from Collider. Its once‑global viewership has dwindled as the series drags on.

Even after the graphic‑novel source concluded in 2019 and the TV show’s ratings slipped, AMC announced in 2020 that season 11 would be the series’ final chapter—only to reverse course. The franchise now expands with spin‑offs like “World Beyond,” a teen‑drama plagued by abysmal ratings, and a planned Rick Grimes movie trilogy, alongside additional upcoming series.

In short, despite waning demand, “The Walking Dead” continues to proliferate, suggesting studios are more interested in extracting any remaining profit than respecting audience fatigue.

4 X‑Men

Many forget that the 2000 debut of “X‑Men” essentially rescued the superhero genre, steering it away from the campy failures of the ’90s. The film’s success, followed by Sam Raimi’s “Spider‑Man” and “X‑Men 2,” cemented its place among the greatest comic‑book adaptations.

Over time, however, the franchise devolved into a chaotic timeline, with writer/producer Simon Kinberg admitting the focus shifted to dazzling effects over compelling characters. After the poorly received “X‑Men: Apocalypse” (2016) and the disastrous “Dark Phoenix” (2019), which cost the studio over $100 million, the series seemed to have hit rock bottom.

Since Disney’s 2018 acquisition of 20th Century Fox, the X‑Men are slated to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering a fresh chance to restore their reputation—ironically, after two decades of fatigue, the franchise may finally get its renaissance.

3 Rambo

John Rambo began as a poignant exploration of a veteran’s PTSD in 1982’s “First Blood,” only to evolve into a hyper‑violent action icon that defined an era. The series remained a staple, but the franchise’s stamina is now under scrutiny.

After the dismal “Rambo IV” in 2008—twenty years after “Rambo III”—studios attempted a comeback with 2019’s “Rambo: Last Blood,” a film that prioritized gratuitous violence over narrative substance, earning scathing reviews.

Author David Morrell, who created the original novels, publicly labeled the latest installment “degrading.” Yet Sylvester Stallone hints at a seventh film and even a prequel set before “First Blood,” suggesting the franchise may persist despite its waning relevance.

2 Transformers

Michael Bay’s 2007 “Transformers” dazzled audiences with groundbreaking visual effects, but the subsequent four installments failed to earn critical acclaim, despite respectable box‑office returns. The series became a textbook example of studios overextending a franchise.

In 2018, Paramount released “Bumblebee,” a reboot directed by Travis Britt, offering a higher‑quality entry that nonetheless struggled financially, relying heavily on strong Chinese market performance.

Frustrated by franchise fatigue, Paramount initially cancelled “Transformers 7,” only to resurrect it in 2020 with a new release schedule for 2022, accompanied by a six‑part animated series on Netflix—clear evidence that the brand is still being prodded despite repeated setbacks.

1 Terminator

James Cameron’s 1984 “The Terminator” and its 1991 sequel “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” remain cinematic landmarks. Yet, without Cameron’s guidance, the franchise has stumbled through a series of lackluster entries.

“Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines” (2003) veered away from the original tone, while the 2009 reboot “Terminator : Salvation”—directed by McG—failed to recoup its massive budget, prompting swift cancellation of planned sequels.

Skydance and Paramount revived the series with 2015’s “Terminator : Genisys,” bringing Arnold Schwarzenegger back, but the film was panned and its intended trilogy quietly scrapped. The most recent attempt, 2019’s “Terminator : Dark Fate,” tried to rewrite the timeline, yet it flopped, losing roughly $130 million and leaving the franchise’s future in limbo.

Even cast members like MacKenzie Davis doubt the viability of further sequels, describing the notion of a seventh film as “quite insane.” The saga’s repeated attempts to recapture past glory underscore Hollywood’s reluctance to let go of a once‑iconic property.

When you hear the phrase 8 conspiracy theories that refuse to die, you might picture shadowy labs, secret societies, and headlines that never quite settle. From poison‑laden chemtrails to the mysterious corridors of Area 51, the stories we’ll explore below are a mash‑up of half‑truths, wild speculation, and the human love for a good mystery. Buckle up, because each tale is as bizarre as it is persistent.

Why 8 Conspiracy Theories Keep Surfacing

These narratives survive because they tap into deep‑seated fears, political divides, and the allure of hidden knowledge. Even when facts debunk them, the stories mutate, finding new angles and fresh believers. Below, we rank the most stubborn theories, from political false‑flags to alleged second suns, each with its own twist.

1 It Was All Political

On March 15, 2019, 28‑year‑old Brenton Tarrant stormed into the Al Noor Mosque in Riccarton, unleashing a brutal shooting spree that later continued at the Linwood Islamic Centre. The harrowing attacks claimed 51 lives and left 49 more wounded, and Tarrant even streamed the first massacre live on Facebook, providing a grim visual for the world.

In the aftermath, a torrent of conspiracy chatter erupted. Some claim the whole episode was a staged false‑flag operation, alleging the victims were merely crisis actors—a narrative echoing the Sandy Hook tragedy conspiracies. Others argue the supposed false flag was permitted to pave the way for stricter gun legislation in New Zealand.

Radio personality Rush Limbaugh added fuel to the fire, suggesting the shooter was a left‑wing operative designed to tarnish the political right’s reputation. A more outlandish angle linked the attack to the “white genocide” conspiracy, implying a shadowy agenda behind Tarrant’s actions.

Ultimately, Tarrant pleaded guilty to all charges and now awaits sentencing, a stark reminder that reality can be far more tragic than any theory.

2 In The Name Of Love

When Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 vanished in March 2014, the world held its breath, expecting swift recovery of the aircraft’s wreckage and black boxes. Instead, six years later, only a handful of debris pieces have been identified, leaving families and investigators grasping at straws.

In the vacuum of answers, conspiracy theories multiplied like mold in a damp cellar. One elaborate claim suggests the pilot, unable to divorce under Islamic law, concocted a plan to escape his marriage. Supposedly, he forged false IDs for himself and a mistress, depressurized the cabin, parachuted out, and arranged for a boat to pick up the mistress while the plane crashed into the sea.

Other wild narratives place the missing jet in a Cambodian jungle, label it a “Asian Bermuda Triangle” anomaly, or assert that North Korea seized the aircraft for its own purposes. Each theory adds another layer of intrigue to an already perplexing mystery.

3 Fake Melania

The Trump administration sparked countless fringe theories, but one that even the former president publicly dismissed was the “Fake Melania” claim. Proponents allege that a body double stands in for the First Lady, shadowing her at events while hidden behind oversized sunglasses and wearing near‑identical outfits.

Advocates of the theory point to perceived height differences, arguing that the stand‑in is shorter than the real Melania. They claim the double appears in photos and videos, suggesting a coordinated effort to conceal the truth.

Donald Trump slammed the notion as “deranged,” accusing conspiracists of photoshopping images and spreading “Fake News.” The former president’s outright dismissal did little to quell the rumor mill, but the theory remains a footnote in the larger tapestry of political conspiracies.

4 Island Of Horrors

Established in 1954, the Plum Island Animal Disease Center was tasked with researching animal pathogens such as African swine fever and foot‑and‑mouth disease, aiming to develop vaccines and protective measures for livestock.

The island also houses the United States’ sole foot‑and‑mouth disease vaccine bank, a critical repository for national bio‑security. Yet the secrecy surrounding the facility has birthed a storm of speculation.

One theory claims that genuine research never occurs there; instead, scientists are allegedly developing animal‑human hybrids, a notion that ties the island to alleged Nazi scientists and alien technology. Another angle suggests the site manufactures bioweapons, with Lyme disease purportedly being a weapon that escaped containment.

Plum Island is slated for shutdown in 2023, to be replaced by the National Bio and Agro‑Defense Facility in Kansas. As the old lab closes, new rumors are already sprouting, ensuring the island’s legend lives on.

5 Economic Crisis?Enter Barack Obama

Conspiracy enthusiasts love to weave narratives that tie major events to shadowy political machinations. The 2008 financial collapse, a watershed moment of global turmoil, quickly became fodder for such stories.

Talk‑radio host Rush Limbaugh stoked the flames by alleging that Senator Chuck Schumer engineered the IndyMac collapse to create financial panic. According to his theory, Democrats then leveraged the chaos to secure electoral victories, ultimately ushering Barack Obama into the White House.

The alleged endgame? Nationalizing U.S. industries under Obama’s leadership, reshaping the economic landscape to fit a particular agenda. Political commentators Karl Rove and Bill O’Reilly added their voices, suggesting journalists deliberately exacerbated the crisis to ensure Obama’s ascent.

While these claims lack credible evidence, they illustrate how economic distress can become a playground for elaborate, politically charged conspiracies.

6 Start Of The Apocalypse

On July 22, 2011, Norwegian extremist Anders Behring Breivik detonated a van bomb in Oslo, killing eight people, before heading to the island of Utøya, where he massacred 69 participants of a youth political camp. Initially diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, a second forensic panel later identified antisocial and narcissistic personality disorders.

Breivik’s own manifesto, posted online before the attacks, denounced feminism and Islam, calling for the mass deportation of Muslims from Europe. He claimed the primary motive was to broadcast his extremist ideology.

Despite his confession, a slew of alternative theories emerged. Some suggested Freemasons orchestrated the tragedy, while others blamed a covert Israeli operation allegedly sponsored by Hillary Clinton. A particularly outlandish claim posits that the entire event was fabricated, arguing Breivik could not have both planted a bomb and escaped to Utøya in the time frame reported.

The most bizarre of all paints Breivik as “Conquest,” the first horseman of the Apocalypse, whose violent act supposedly paved the way for the other three horsemen—War, Famine, and Death—to follow.

7 Second Sun

NASA faces a litany of accusations, from alleged alien cover‑ups to fabricating planetary images. One of the most eccentric theories claims the agency does not explore space at all, but instead manufactures elaborate hoaxes, including the Moon landings and fabricated planetary photographs.

In 2016, amateur astronomer Paul Cox went on live television and pointed to what most astronomers recognize as Mercury, boldly declaring that the bright orb beside our Sun was actually a hidden second Sun. He argued that this “second Sun” had been deliberately concealed by NASA.

Some viewers dismissed Cox’s claim as a joke, but a subset of conspiracy fans seized the moment, insisting it proved NASA’s willingness to fabricate reality. The theory quickly merged with the longstanding “Planet X” narrative, which warns that a rogue planet—or perhaps the second Sun—could emerge from behind our star, collide with Earth, and annihilate humanity.

8 Orchestrated Shark Attacks

On December 1, 2010, four tourists suffered serious injuries when sharks attacked them off Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt’s Red Sea. Just days later, on December 5, a woman was fatally attacked while wading in shallow water near the same shoreline.

Initial speculation blamed accidental feeding or the disposal of animal carcasses, prompting authorities to capture and kill dozens of sharks in an effort to curb the threat. However, the incidents sparked a far more sinister narrative.

Conspiracy theorists claimed a GPS tracker found on one of the sharks traced back to Israeli intelligence, alleging that Israel orchestrated the attacks to sabotage Egypt’s tourism industry. The accusation fit a broader pattern of alleged Israeli surveillance, where the nation was rumored to tag birds and other wildlife with tracking devices for espionage.

Israel’s government has consistently denied any involvement in shark tampering or wildlife spying, labeling the accusations as unfounded.

9 + Just When You Think You’ve Heard It All

Tragedy often opens the floodgates for conspiracy speculation. The sinking of the RMS Titanic triggered a cascade of rumors, from claims that a German U‑boat torpedoed the ship to theories that the vessel was swapped with its sister ship, the Olympic, for insurance fraud.

The most elaborate narrative suggests that either the Rothschild family or J.P. Morgan orchestrated the disaster to eliminate prominent opponents—namely Benjamin Guggenheim, Isidor Straus, and John Jacob Astor IV—who stood against the creation of the Federal Reserve. Proponents argue that Morgan’s last‑minute cancellation of his Titanic ticket, citing a sudden illness, was no coincidence.

These theories persist alongside a plethora of other “bonkers” American conspiracies, illustrating how a single historical event can spawn an entire sub‑genre of speculative storytelling.

When it comes to a healthy lifestyle, most of us focus on eating right and moving our bodies. Yet, there’s a third pillar that often gets overlooked: the quality of our sleep. While a good night’s rest is essential for well‑being, the darkness can also conceal some surprisingly common dangers that may claim your life while you’re unaware.

10 Surprisingly Common Threats While You Sleep

10 Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) strikes when the heart’s natural pacemaker – the sinoatrial node – falters, causing the organ’s electrical rhythm to go haywire. In plain terms, the heart’s built‑in timing system stops working properly, and blood circulation can grind to a halt within minutes.

How does it kill? By abruptly cutting off the flow of oxygen‑rich blood to the brain. The terrifying part is that about half of SCA cases show no warning signs at all, so a person can simply drift off to dreamland and never wake up.

9 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent, invisible gas that sneaks into homes through faulty furnaces, gas stoves, car exhausts, or even a blocked chimney. Because it has no smell or color, it can fill a bedroom unnoticed, turning a peaceful slumber into a lethal trap.

How does it kill? When CO binds to hemoglobin, it blocks oxygen from reaching vital organs. Victims often experience headaches, dizziness, or nausea while awake, but during sleep the lack of symptoms means the poison can silently claim a life.

8 Myocardial Infarction

A myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked, depriving a portion of the heart muscle of oxygen. While many heart attacks wake people up with crushing chest pain, some happen quietly in the night.

How does it kill? If enough heart tissue dies, the organ can no longer pump blood effectively, leading to heart failure. Because the victim is unconscious, seeking emergency care becomes impossible, making nocturnal heart attacks especially dangerous.

7 Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea is a disorder where the brain fails to send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike obstructive apnea, the airway isn’t blocked; instead, the respiratory drive simply stops for brief periods while you’re asleep.How does it kill? Repeated pauses can cause blood oxygen levels to plunge—a condition called hypoxemia—resulting in cellular oxygen deprivation. If the brain can’t rouse the body in time to breathe again, the outcome can be fatal.

6 Unexplained Nocturnal Death Syndrome

Unexplained nocturnal death syndrome (SUNDS) is a mysterious condition first reported among Southeast Asian Hmong refugees in the late 1970s. Known by many names—Bangungut in the Philippines, Dream Disease in Hawaii, and lai tai in Thailand—it targets otherwise healthy young adults.

How does it kill? The exact mechanism remains uncertain, but researchers suspect a malfunction of cardiac ion channels leading to sudden ventricular fibrillation. The result is a sudden, painless death that occurs during sleep with no obvious warning.

5 Cerebral Aneurysm

A cerebral aneurysm is a weakened spot on a brain blood vessel that balloons out like a tiny balloon. Over time, the constant pressure of blood can stretch the wall until it bursts, spilling blood into the surrounding brain tissue.

How does it kill? A rupture unleashes a rapid burst of blood, raising intracranial pressure and damaging brain cells within seconds. The sudden bleed can cause loss of consciousness, severe neurological deficits, and often death if not treated immediately.

4 Enterovirus D68

Enterovirus D68 (EV‑D68) is a relatively obscure virus first identified in California in 1962. After a spike in cases in 2014, physicians warned that the virus could become a serious public‑health threat, especially because it can strike without obvious symptoms.

How does it kill? In severe cases, EV‑D68 triggers intense respiratory distress, producing a high‑pitched wheeze that can be hard to manage. The virus has also been linked to muscle weakness and inflammation of the spinal cord, complications that can prove fatal even while the victim sleeps.

3 Dry Drowning

Dry drowning describes a situation where a small amount of water—sometimes just a single drop—enters the lungs and triggers a delayed, progressive respiratory crisis. The water may irritate lung tissue, leading to swelling that worsens hours after the incident.

How does it kill? As the lungs become inflamed, the airway narrows and oxygen intake drops, eventually causing asphyxiation. Because symptoms can be mild or delayed, a person may fall asleep unaware of the looming danger.

2 The Widowmaker Heart Attack

The “widowmaker” is a nickname for a heart attack that blocks the left anterior descending artery, the main vessel supplying blood to the heart’s front wall. A complete blockage here often proves fatal within minutes unless immediate medical intervention occurs.

How does it kill? The sudden loss of blood flow devastates heart muscle, preventing the organ from pumping effectively. Without rapid treatment, the heart’s inability to circulate blood leads to cardiac collapse and death.

1 Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep‑related breathing disorder. It occurs when the airway collapses during sleep because of relaxed throat muscles, enlarged tonsils, or a thick tongue, causing repeated pauses in breathing.

How does it kill? Each pause drops the blood’s oxygen level, stressing the cardiovascular system. Over time, these intermittent hypoxic events can trigger heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure—sometimes before the sleeper even realizes anything is wrong.

Death looms over everyone, yet a handful of individuals across the ages have managed to cheat the inevitable. In this roundup of 10 people history, we spotlight those whose tenacity, luck, or sheer stubbornness kept them from crossing the final threshold.

10 People History Highlights

10 The Woman Who Was Hanged (And Then Some)

In the year 1650, a young housemaid named Anne Greene became involved with the grandson of her employer, resulting in a secret pregnancy. After a miscarriage six months later, she buried the infant herself, only for the remains to be discovered later, leading to a charge of infanticide despite clear evidence that the child had been stillborn.

Convicted and sentenced to death, Greene was taken to the scaffold on December 14. She hung for nearly thirty minutes while friends pounded her chest and pulled at her legs in a desperate attempt to shorten the ordeal.

When the executioner finally cut her down, the body was slated for a surgeon’s experimental study. As the guard placed her limp form into a coffin, he heard a faint breath and, claiming charity, jumped on her chest a few more times to finish the job.

Defying all expectations, the surgeon revived Greene using a mixture of hot and cold cordials, throat stimulation, and a steaming enema—the latter proving decisive. She was later pardoned, married, bore three more children, and ultimately succumbed to childbirth complications in 1665.

9 The Man Who Fell From His Coffe

In 1571, English farmer Matthew Wall was on the brink of marriage when he suddenly died. While his friends were hauling his coffin up a steep hill toward the church, a pallbearer slipped on damp leaves, causing the coffin to crash to the ground.

The sudden impact was followed by a stunned silence, then an unexpected thudding from inside the coffin, accompanied by muffled cries. The pallbearers opened the lid to discover Wall still alive, having been in a coma until the jolt revived his consciousness.

Wall recovered, married his fiancée, and fathered two sons, living until 1595. In his will, he left money to the parish church so that, on the anniversary of his first funeral, the bells would toll as if for a funeral and then ring again in a wedding peal.

He also requested that the lane leading to the church be cleared of leaves to prevent future slips. To this day, the village observes his wish each year, with children sweeping the lane and receiving sweets as the bells chime.

8 The Man Torpedoed Out Of A Submarine

John Capes served as a stoker on the HMS Perseus, which set sail from Malta to Alexandria in November 1941. On December 6, a mine detonated near the vessel off Cephalonia, causing a catastrophic explosion.

Of the 61 crew members aboard, Capes emerged as the sole survivor. He claimed he had been napping in a makeshift bunk inside a spare torpedo tube when the blast occurred, and that he and three comrades escaped through an engine‑room hatch.

After seizing a tot of rum for courage, Capes helped his mates into life preservers and swam eight kilometres through the icy December sea toward the white cliffs of occupied Cephalonia. He washed ashore unconscious and was hidden by local fishermen for eighteen months, who moved him from house to house to evade Italian forces.

In 1943, he finally left the island, journeyed through Turkey to Alexandria, and returned to submarine duty. Though initially doubted, his tale was corroborated in 1997 when divers examined the Perseus wreck and found the exact compartment layout he described, including the unlocked escape hatch, the torpedo tube bunk, and even his bottle of rum.

Capes lived until 1985, his extraordinary survival eventually gaining official recognition.

7 The Woman Dug Up By Grave Robbers

In 1705, Margorie McCall fell ill and passed away in Shankill, Ireland. During her wake, mourners argued over a valuable ring she wore, fearing that grave‑robbers might try to steal it. The ring, however, refused to budge.

Undeterred, McCall was interred still wearing the stubborn piece of jewellery. That very night, grave‑robbers exhumed her body, only to discover the ring could not be removed. In frustration, they sliced off her ring finger; the cut instantly revived her, and she fled the scene, returning home bewildered.

When she finally died for good, McCall received a second funeral and a tombstone bearing the inscription “Lived Once, Buried Twice.” The fate of the ring remains a mystery.

6 The King Who Survived At Least 50 Assassination Attempts

In 1931, King Zog of Albania was shot while exiting the Vienna State Opera House. This was not his first brush with bullets; he had already been shot in the early 1920s, recovered, and marched straight to parliament to deliver a speech.

His lavish lifestyle clashed with a largely impoverished populace, and his ruthless suppression of political opponents earned him many enemies. Consequently, Zog became the target of a staggering number of plots.

To protect himself, Zog limited public appearances, placed his family in charge of the army, and even had his mother taste his food. Nonetheless, he survived at least fifty assassination attempts, some of which persisted after his exile in 1939.

He eventually died of natural causes in 1961, having outlived the majority of his would‑be killers.

5 The Man Who Was Mauled By A Bear

In 1818, Hugh Glass escaped a pirate crew and later found refuge with the Pawnee, who taught him essential wilderness skills such as river crossing, plant identification, fire‑making, and celestial navigation.

By 1822, Glass joined a fur‑hunting expedition led by General Ashley along the northern Missouri River. While scouting, he encountered a mother grizzly protecting her cubs; the bear lunged, and Glass, unable to reach his gun, wrestled the massive animal with his bare hands.

Believing his end was near, General Ashley placed Glass on a bearskin rug and summoned volunteers to keep him company until death. Two men stayed, lured by a promised bonus, and dug a grave for him.

After three days, it became evident that Glass was not dying. The two men absconded with his rifle and knife, abandoning him. Undeterred, Glass fashioned a makeshift bandage, wrapped himself in the rug, and began a 322‑kilometre trek back to civilization.

Motivated by the desire for retribution against those who deserted him, he survived months of crawling, eventually reaching the Cheyenne River, constructing a raft, and floating downstream to safety.

Glass never exacted personal vengeance; instead, he reported the betrayal to General Ashley, continued his frontier life, and met his final fate in a conflict with the Arikara tribe in 1833.

4 The Explorer Who Survived Mutiny, Starvation, A Poisoned Arrow, And A Spear

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan, the first navigator to cross from the Atlantic to the Pacific, met his demise on the Philippines while attempting the world’s inaugural circumnavigation.

Launching from Spain in 1519 with five ships and 250 men, Magellan weathered an attempted mutiny, lost a vessel during a reconnaissance mission, and dramatically underestimated the Pacific’s vastness, turning a planned few‑day crossing into a four‑month ordeal.

Starvation set in as provisions dwindled, water turned foul, and scurvy ravaged the crew. Upon finally sighting Mactan Island, the weakened expedition landed, and Magellan, in gratitude, tried to convert the locals to Christianity—using cannon fire and muskets rather than hymnals.

Coral reefs blocked their cannon range, prompting the Spaniards to wade ashore in body armor that left their legs exposed. The natives, aiming low, struck them with arrows.

Despite being hit by poisoned arrows, Magellan kept fighting. He was later assaulted with spears, yet he persevered until a native thrust a bamboo spear into his face at the surf’s edge.

Defying death once more, Magellan slew his assailant with his lance, attempted to draw his sword with a wounded arm, and faced a barrage of iron and bamboo weapons. Though he fell, his remaining crew completed the circumnavigation in 1522, with only 20 of the original 250 sailors returning home.

3 The Comrade With 200 Bullets And An Ice Axe

Leon Trotsky, a prominent revolutionary, lived under constant threat from Stalin’s regime. By 1939, Stalin orchestrated a two‑pronged plan to eliminate his rival.

The first strike unfolded in May 1940 when a squad of hitmen stormed Trotsky’s Mexican hideaway, unleashing over 200 bullets. Miraculously, both Trotsky and his wife survived the barrage.

Meanwhile, a subtler plot took shape. Sylvia Ageloff, a devoted Trotsky supporter, introduced a charismatic diplomat named Jacques Mornard—actually Ramón Mercader, a Stalinist operative.

Mercader ingratiated himself with Trotsky’s guards, claiming he possessed an article for Trotsky’s review. He entered the home carrying an ice axe.

While Trotsky read, Mercader struck him with the pick end of the axe, penetrating his skull five centimetres deep. Trotsky’s scream summoned the guards, who restrained Mercader until authorities arrived.

Trotsky succumbed to his wounds the following day. Mercader was sentenced to nearly twenty years of imprisonment, dying in 1978, reportedly whispering, “I hear it always… I know he’s waiting for me on the other side.”

2 The Knife Man Who Fell From A Roof, Had TB, Was Stabbed, And Got Bayoneted

Jim Bowie, famed creator of the eponymous knife, fought in the Texas Revolution and made his final stand at the Alamo. His brushes with death began in 1828 when he killed a man in a duel.

Living a hard‑drinking lifestyle, Bowie likely suffered from yellow fever and possibly typhoid or pulmonary tuberculosis. A drunken fall from a roof broke several ribs and impaired his breathing, leaving him bedridden as the Alamo siege began.

Eyewitnesses reported Mexican soldiers entering Bowie’s sickroom, slashing him with bayonets. He remained alive as they tossed him onto the battlefield, catching him on their bayonets.

Even while feverish, Bowie kept firing his rifle. When wounded again, he was carried back to his bed, yet he rose once more, stabbing an opponent in the chest with his famous knife and shooting another before finally falling.

1 The Pilot Who Untangled His Plane After A Midair Collision

Keith Caldwell rose to fame as a fighter pilot on the Western Front during World War I, becoming New Zealand’s highest‑scoring ace with 25 victories.

After a failed enlistment attempt at 18, he funded his own pilot training, earning his licence in December 1915 before heading to England in early 1916. By July 1916, he had logged merely 35 flight hours across two continents.

At 22, Caldwell was promoted to flight commander, earning a reputation for fearlessness and aggression. By October, he had downed nine enemy aircraft, receiving the Military Cross and two mentions in dispatches.

Known for daring tactics, he once executed a tail‑spin dive against German ace Werner Voss, pulling out just before impact.

In the war’s closing weeks, his luck seemed to run out when a mid‑air collision crippled his aircraft’s wing struts, sending him spiralling thousands of feet downwards. To regain control, Caldwell crawled onto the lower wing, cleared the obstruction, and clutched a wing strut with one hand while steering with the other.

His improvisation allowed a controlled crash‑landing behind British lines. He leapt to safety seconds before impact, emerging unscathed. Post‑war, Caldwell returned to New Zealand to farm, later re‑enlisting for World II, which he also survived.

If you’re hunting for the ultimate bucket‑list, you’ve just landed on a guide packed with 10 fabulous things you can chase before the final curtain falls. From sipping daring drinks to soaring above clouds, each adventure is a blend of thrill, creativity, and a pinch of mischief.

1 Cocktail Tasting Adventure

Who doesn’t love a good cocktail? The world of spirits offers a dizzying array of flavors, from smoky mezcal to sweet liqueurs. Head to your local liquor store, stock up on a rainbow of bottles, and turn your kitchen into a mini‑mixology lab. Experiment with classic recipes, then go rogue—add a dash of something unexpected and watch the magic happen. By the end of the night, you’ll have a personal catalog of liquid masterpieces to flaunt at the next party. Pro tip: keep a sturdy bucket nearby for those inevitable spills and a reminder that the best memories often come with a little mess.

2 Flash Mob Extravaganza

Flash mobs turned ordinary streets into spontaneous stages, and you can be part of the next wave. Imagine dozens of strangers converging at a train station, each pulling out a tiny iPod, and suddenly the platform erupts in synchronized dance. The phenomenon began in Manhattan in 2003, and by 2006, a London Underground line was overrun by 4,000 silent dancers. Organize a meetup, pick a public spot, rehearse a short routine, and watch bewildered commuters become your audience. The thrill of shared anonymity and collective performance makes this one of the most exhilarating 10 fabulous things you can try.

3 Film Premiere Spectacle

If you’re lucky enough to snag a ticket to a major film premiere, you’ve earned a golden spot on the list. Picture yourself strolling the red carpet for a blockbuster like a Lord of the Rings installment, the flash of cameras, the rustle of designer gowns, and the palpable buzz of Hollywood magic. It’s not just about the movie; it’s the whole experience—meeting fellow fans, sipping champagne, and maybe even catching a glimpse of a star who might, just maybe, notice you. Even if you’re not from California, a short flight can land you at the most glamorous opening you’ve ever attended, solidifying this as a standout 10 fabulous things adventure.

4 Graffiti Canvas Challenge

Ever felt the urge to leave a mark that lasts longer than a selfie? Grab a can of spray paint and find a clean, legal surface—perhaps a designated graffiti wall or an abandoned fence. The thrill lies in the act of creation, the hiss of the nozzle, and the burst of color. For extra street‑cred, aim for a hard‑to‑reach spot; the higher the risk, the more unforgettable the imprint. Just remember to respect local laws and clean up any mess you create. This bold expression of art is a perfect addition to your 10 fabulous things repertoire, especially if you love the idea of turning ordinary concrete into a personal masterpiece.

5 Restaurant Runner Heist

Imagine slipping into a swanky restaurant, dressed to the nines, ordering a multi‑course tasting menu that would make any food lover swoon, then making a graceful exit without paying. It’s a high‑stakes game of culinary cat‑and‑mouse. While we don’t endorse theft, the notion of a “runner”—a daring diner who vanishes with the bill unpaid—adds an adrenaline‑pumped twist to the dining experience. If you attempt this, pick an upscale venue that can afford the loss and make sure you’re not robbing a family‑run eatery that depends on every tip. The sheer audacity of this act lands it squarely among the most mischievous 10 fabulous things you could attempt.

6 Learn to Fly a Plane

Skip the sky‑diving and bungee‑jumping hype; instead, enroll in a pilot’s course and earn your wings. Flying a plane demands dedication, a hefty savings plan, and a willingness to shave off any long facial hair that might interfere with the headset. Lessons can be pricey, but the reward—taking off from a runway and feeling the world shrink beneath you—is unparalleled. Whether you aim for a private pilot’s license or just a few introductory flights, the sensation of steering a metal bird through clouds is a bucket‑list staple that earns its place among the 10 fabulous things you’ll never forget.

7 Hang Your Art in a Gallery

Got a paintbrush? Even if your artistic talent leans more toward abstract splatters than realism, you can still claim a spot on a gallery wall. Create a piece—any style works, because modern art often thrives on mystery. Once it dries, slip it into the most prestigious gallery you can locate and tape it up discreetly. Add a hand‑crafted plaque and a cheeky price tag for extra flair. The risk of getting caught adds an electric buzz, but the payoff—seeing strangers admire your work as if it were a masterpiece—makes this daring stunt a perfect entry in your list of 10 fabulous things.

8 Splurge on a Luxury Hotel Suite

Reserve a night in the most opulent hotel your city offers, and don’t settle for anything less than the top‑tier suite. Think marble bathrooms, panoramic city views, a private butler, and a minibar stocked with premium spirits. Indulge in a lavish breakfast, a rejuvenating spa treatment, and perhaps a late‑night dip in the rooftop pool. Wake up feeling like royalty, even if a hangover greets you. Just remember: stealing the plush bathrobe might land a surprise charge on your credit card later. This decadent escape is undeniably one of the most indulgent 10 fabulous things you can treat yourself to.

9 Participate in a Police Lineup

Volunteer at your local precinct and you might be invited to stand in an actual police lineup. Picture yourself in a room with a row of suspects, each looking as nervous as the next, while you sport a tee‑shirt that reads “I Did It.” If you’re lucky, the department throws in a free lunch or even a modest cash reward. Just make sure you’re not actually being investigated—otherwise you’ll be the one behind the glass. This quirky, slightly risky experience adds a dash of courtroom drama to your 10 fabulous things collection.

10 Invent Something Groundbreaking

When gadgets fail to meet a need, become the creator yourself. Spend months—or even years—researching, prototyping, and refining an invention that solves a real problem. Once you’ve nailed the concept, protect it with a patent and give it a catchy name that sticks in people’s minds. Whether it’s a kitchen gadget, a tech accessory, or a novel piece of art, the journey from spark to market can be as thrilling as any extreme sport. This entrepreneurial venture tops off your roster of 10 fabulous things, proving that imagination can be just as exhilarating as any adrenaline‑pumping activity.

Why These 10 Fabulous Things Matter

Each of these experiences pushes you out of the ordinary, urging you to taste, see, create, and even break a few rules (responsibly). By tackling them, you’ll collect stories that outshine any vacation photo album and give you bragging rights at every gathering.

Are you sitting down? Good, because we’ve got some bad news for you: you’re going to die. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but one day the cold hand of death will come grasping after you. When that happens, you better pray you don’t die in any of the following awful ways.

10. Electric Chair

The electric chair was originally designed as a humane alternative to the guillotine or the firing squad. Unfortunately, the guy behind it – an Edison employee named Harold P Brown – apparently got the meaning of humane confused with its exact opposite. Dying from the electric chair is one of the nastiest ways you can possibly go.

Let’s start with the heat. In some states, so many separate shocks are fired through the body that it ends up super-heating to an absurd degree. Internal organs start to cook inside you. Your eyeballs melt. Skin can be burned off or get fused to the chair. In some cases, exposed flesh and even heads have been known to burst into flame.

Then you have the convulsions. In the very best-case scenario, you’re likely to soil yourself. In the very worst, you may jerk so violently you snap something. In 1991, one man twitched so hard he broke his legs. Then there’s the time. While some executions in the chair take a mere two minutes, others have been known to last nearly twenty. This still has nothing on the lethal injection. One recent botched execution took over two hours.

9. Botulism Poisoning

Every year, an average of 110 Americans get botulism. That might not sound like much, but if you’re one of the unlucky few, then God help you. In severe cases, botulism is an infection that will make the short remainder of your life a living hell.

Most-frequently contracted from contaminated food (although there are other ways to get it) botulism is almost vindictive in its treatment of humans. The most-common side-effect is muscle paralysis. It’s even worse than it sounds. Not only does your body seize up, the muscles that power your breathing stop working too. In no time at all, your body is incapable of taking on oxygen, or doing pretty much anything for itself.

When that happens, you’ve really got one of two options. Go to the hospital, or go to the morgue. But even if you get treatment, you’ll still be in for a rough ride. Those with severe botulism can spend anything up to several months on a breathing machine as their body slowly returns to normal.

8. Army Ant Attack

Imagine living in a world that’s crawling with swarms of predators. A world where insects travel in hordes, devouring everything in their paths, from animals to humans. Imagine they’re virtually unstoppable, and will take the young, sick and old. Are you picturing that world? Well, we’ve got some bad news for you. You’re living in it.

Army ants (also known as Driver ants) are a collective name given to some 200-odd species of nomadic ant that live in Africa and Central and South America. National Geographic has compared them to Genghis Khan’s Mongol Hordes. It’s easy to see why. Army ants attack in swarms of 100,000 plus – steamrollering across the landscape, overwhelming and eating anything that crosses their path with their superior numbers.

Scary as they seem, these guys generally just eat other insects and small animals. However, they have been known to attack humans in Africa. There are even stories of them overwhelming sleeping or bedridden people and feasting on them before anyone can save them.

7. Drowning in a Drain

From the terrifyingly exotic to the grotesquely mundane. Every year a handful of people drown after falling into storm drains; a method of death that’s depressingly pathetic. While any instance of drain drowning is bad enough, some are occasionally so gross that we can only pray it doesn’t happen to us.

Case in point: in 2003 a young man from Somerset in England was walking home when he dropped his phone into a drain. Reaching in to retrieve it, he slipped and fell in head first. Since drains are essentially 6ft long tubes filled with sewage, there was no way for him to claw his way out. The guy drowned in drain water, and was only discovered hours later.

If that seems like a freak one-off accident, you should know there’s been a few cases identical to this. It happened in Wisconsin in 2007, in New Zealand in 2012, and nearly happened in California in 2011 (the guy was pulled out before he could drown). If there’s one thing worse than the idea of drowning in sewage, it’s drowning in sewage while your last thoughts are all about what an idiot you are.

6. Your Insides Exploding Outwards

If you’ve always dreamed of living fast, dying young and leaving a good-looking corpse, you better pray you don’t go the way of Truls Hellevik. A Norwegian diver working on an oil rig, Hellevik was sat in a decompression chamber with four others when things went pear-shaped. And by ‘pear-shaped’ we mean the chamber “explosively decompressed.”

You can tell just by the name that this isn’t going to be good.

The atmospheres decompressed from nine to one in a single split second. This was enough to kill three of Hellevik’s colleagues instantly, and leave the other seriously injured. But Hellevik got the worst of it. Exposed to the highest pressure-gradient, he had his internal gasses swell up and literally explode out of him.

Standing by the door that had broken open, Hellevik was forced through the 24 inch gap in an instant. The force and pressure combined dismembered him and caused his internal organs to burst out his chest like an extra from Alien. A section of his spine was blasted 30ft into the air. Although his death was instantaneous, it was also one of the messiest in recorded history.

5. Mustard Gas Attack

Unless you’re reading this after time-travelling back to WWI, it’s very unlikely you’ll die from a mustard gas attack. This is excellent news, as death from mustard gas was terrifyingly, unbelievably horrible.

While most modern chemical weapons kill by affecting the central nervous system (for example, Sarin), mustard gas is a ‘blistering agent.’ That’s a depressingly literal term. Mustard gas attacks any surface it comes into contact with, leaving horrific burns. Those who inhale it have their throats and the inside of their lungs blister and swell up, erupting in puss-filled sores. But even if you have a gas mask, you’ll still suffer. Contemporary accounts from WWI are filled with images of men’s skin breaking out into debilitating blisters that left them hideously scarred.

Terrifyingly, mustard gas isn’t entirely a thing of the past. In summer 2015, twisted death-cult ISIS released some in Syria, sadly killing two people.

4. Execution by Elephant

Be glad you live in the modern world. If you were alive in India as little as 150 years ago and pissed off the wrong people, you could expect to suffer execution by elephant.

This method of death was exactly as gory as it sounds. In the most-common version, recorded by Louis Rousselet in his book India and its native princes, the condemned would be tied up and dragged through the streets by the elephant. After being busted up and bruised by all this, he’d be dragged to an execution block and have his head rested on it. The elephant would then lower its foot down, crushing the man’s skull.

In earlier times, the methods were even worse. In the 3^rd century BC, elephants would be trained to crush limbs and hurl the condemned man through the air before finally trampling him. In the medieval period, their tusks would be fitted with iron blades so they could cut their victim to pieces. While it’s unlikely this will happen to you today, it’s far from uncommon to hear of people in India still getting trampled to death by the beasts.

3. Attacked by a Flying Lawnmower

We know what you’re thinking. ‘Jesus, guys. Flying lawnmower? That’s happened exactly zero times in the history of the world.’ Well, hold your horses there pardner. We didn’t say it was common, but it’s happened more than zero times. In 1979, John Bowen was killed when an out-of-control airborne lawnmower crash-landed on his head.

The setting was a Jets-Patriots football game at Shea Stadium. In those days, halftime was a pretty dull affair. Instead of some fantastic cheerleader-based display, the stadium simply had a bunch of guys come in with their remote controlled airplanes and fly them around the crowd. One, by a Brooklyn guy named Philip Cushman, was a modified lawnmower that literally flew in the air. Unfortunately, it didn’t fly very well. Just before the halftime show was over, Cushman lost control of his toy. It dropped from the air and landed on Bowen’s head, giving him a cut that looked “like he had been attacked with an axe.”

Bowen died of his gruesome injuries, and man learned an important lesson. To never, ever again attempt to build a nature-defying lawnmower.

2. Tortured to Death by Insects

The past was a really horrible place. We’ve seen that with mustard gas and elephant executions. But nothing can compare to the practice of Scaphism. Practiced in ancient Persia, it was basically the nastiest way to kill someone you can possibly imagine.

Basically, the victim would be placed inside a hollow log with only their feet, hands and head protruding. Then they would be force-fed milk and honey for days until they developed severe diarrhea. At this point, the executioner would rub honey onto their eyes, ears, mouths, genitals, anus and face, before setting their log adrift on a stagnant lake. You can probably guess what happened next.

Attracted by the honey, insects would swarm the log. At first they’d simply bite and sting the victim. Then they’d start burrowing. As the log continued to fill up with the victim’s poop, the insects would start digging into their skin and any openings in their body, and start laying eggs. The victim was fed each day to keep them alive, to the point when the flesh was literally rotting from their bones and their skin was infested with maggots. The least-lucky could expect this experience to go on for over a week. We really hope no serial killers stuck for ideas are reading this.

1. Growing Old and Dying

After all those squirm-inducing descriptions of death, the worst way of all to die might come as a shock to you. It’s not violent. It’s not gory. It’s simply growing old, getting sick and passing away in a hospital.

We’re not making this up. When Vice looked into the matter, they found actual doctors willing to agree dying a ‘normal’ death in modern America is utterly hideous. The trouble is, we’re getting better at keeping people alive. On the downside, we still suck at treating certain types of pain. The result is many, many of us will spend our last weeks or months stuck in a hospital somewhere, slowly wasting away. Our bones wracked with pain or our stomachs turning with constant nausea, watched over by overworked and underpaid medical staff who neither understand us or really care about how we’re feeling.

It sounds like a nightmare, but it’s true. Recent research has shown the number of people experiencing depression or physical discomfort in the last years of their lives is on the rise. And that’s before we get onto stuff like care home workers who neglect or abuse patients on an industrial scale. It might not be what you want to hear, but the worst way to die may well be the one we’re all most-likely to experience. Wasting away alone and forgotten in some cold hospital, in agony and surrounded by people who treat us like garbage. If that’s not a chilling thought, then we don’t know what is.