A list of curious facts
Coriandoli: That's what paper confetti is called in Italy. It means “coriander seeds”—and refers to the tradition of throwing sugar-coated dhaniya during celebrations. Believe it or not: Coriander was widely used in Italy, until it lost out to good ole basil. (Gastro Obscura)
Flying hippos: According to a new study, the portly creatures become air-borne when they're trotting at top speed. FYI: hippos never ever gallop. Also: Hippos weigh up to 3,600kg. (Gizmodo)
Morgue movies: A Chinese cemetery in Thailand is screening movies for the dead—to comfort their spirits. Only four staff members are present on these occasions—along with a delicious feast. Dead don't do popcorn, we're guessing. (South China Morning Post)
Caesar salad: has nothing to do with good ole Julius—and didn't even originate in Italy. It was invented by a French-inspired Italian chef Caesar Cardini—who put it on the menu of his restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico. (Food & Wine)
A bonus fact: Artist Roberto Benavidez makes elaborate piñatas that resemble animals—taken from mediaeval artworks and texts. And they’re remarkable. (See: lead image, as well) (New York Times, paywall, ARTnews)
