Owen is a meticulous researcher and writer, specializing in European history and the intricate details of architectural conservation. He uncovers the fascinating stories behind ancient structures.
Portfolio
Michelangelo's "The Last Judgment" in the Sistine Chapel is undergoing a cleaning to remove a salt film. The work is expected to finish by Easter, with public access maintained through a reproduction
Archaeologists in Romania have discovered a 5,000-year-old fortress in Neamț County, hidden for centuries under dense forest. LiDAR technology was key to revealing the ancient structure, which dates t
Archaeologists in Vannes, France, have unearthed the well-preserved 14th-century Château de l'Hermine beneath a private mansion. The castle, built by Duke John IV, reveals ornate structures and daily
Zaha Hadid Architects has unveiled its design for the Vertex Hotel in Okinawa, Japan, featuring a unique snaking form that follows the coastal landscape.
Rome has opened two new subway stations, including one beneath the Colosseum, displaying ancient artifacts. The Metro C line project has faced two decades of delays due to archaeological finds and com
A remarkable discovery at Pompeii has revealed the ancient Roman secret to building their enduring empire: a sophisticated 'hot mixing' concrete with self-healing properties that allowed structures li
Turkish authorities calm concerns over heavy machinery inside Hagia Sophia, confirming it's for critical restoration to protect mosaics and structure, with measures to prevent damage.
Archaeologists in Budapest have discovered a perfectly preserved 1,700-year-old Roman sarcophagus containing the skeleton of a young woman and a trove of artifacts.
A medieval tower in central Rome partially collapsed, injuring one worker seriously and trapping another. The Torre dei Conti, near the Colosseum, was undergoing renovation.
For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, visitors to the Colosseum in Rome can now walk through a hidden passageway once reserved exclusively for emperors.
Bellister Castle, a 12th-century Grade I-listed property in Northumberland, England, is available for lease at 2.5 million pounds. The castle, partly built with Hadrian's Wall stone, offers six bedroo
Notre-Dame Cathedral hosted its first wedding in 30 years for carpenter Martin Lorentz, who helped rebuild the landmark after the 2019 fire, and his fiancée Jade.
The St. George Reef Lighthouse, America's most expensive lighthouse, faces significant decay after 50 years of abandonment. A dedicated volunteer group is working to restore the historic structure, ba
Simone Quilici, the new Colosseum director, clarifies that electronic dance music parties are not planned for the iconic site. He aims for acoustic concerts, jazz, and historical reenactments, while a
A 69-year-old Japanese tourist died after falling from a perimeter wall at the Pantheon in Rome. The incident happened at night, prompting an investigation.
A stone wall at Devil’s Den in Gettysburg National Military Park sustained significant damage, prompting a law enforcement investigation. The incident, possibly a vehicle strike, highlights concerns o
Archaeologists in southern Germany have unearthed the possible foundation of a monumental Roman tomb in Wolkertshofen, part of ancient Raetia. The 40-foot circular structure, potentially a cenotaph, s
After decades of deterioration, the historic 180-year-old Bennett Rice Mill facade in Charleston has been fully restored, marking a key milestone in the Union Pier revitalization project.
King Tutankhamun's tomb in Egypt faces severe collapse risks from cracks, water damage, and fungi. Experts warn immediate action is needed to save the 3,300-year-old site.
A new exhibition, “Monuments,” features removed Confederate statues alongside contemporary art, sparking critical discussions on American history and civil rights. The show, at MOCA and the Brick, inc