Have you ever wanted to stand at the literal center of the world?

Well, in Boston, Massachusetts, you can do exactly that! Tucked away inside the Mary Baker Eddy Library is the Mapparium, a three-story, stained-glass globe that is easily one of the most mind-bending sights in New England. 🏛️🌈

Completed in 1935, this incredible work of art and geography is nearly 100 years old! Because the 608 stained-glass panels haven't been touched since their installation, the Mapparium serves as a stunning time capsule. As you walk across the 30-foot glass bridge that bisects the globe, you’ll see a world that no longer exists on modern maps. Keep an eye out for "Siam" instead of Thailand, "Transjordan," and the massive expanse of "French West Africa." 🗺️📜

But the Mapparium isn't just a feast for the eyes; it’s a trip for your ears, too. According to Atlas Obscura, the perfectly spherical glass room creates a "whispering gallery" effect. Because the glass doesn't absorb sound, your voice is reflected back with startling clarity. If you stand at one end of the bridge and whisper, someone at the very opposite end can hear you perfectly, while people standing right next to you might hear nothing at all! 🤫👂

It is a whimsical, immersive experience that makes you feel like a giant looking out at the planet from the inside out. It’s a rare chance to see the world exactly as it was a century ago, all while standing in the middle of a glowing, glass masterpiece. 🌟🗽

Stay centered,

The Driveby Tourist Team ✌️🌍

"In the chaos of life, find your center and stay grounded.”

Classic Rock song: "Centerfield" by John Fogerty

Please ask me about the quirky places I've visited!

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Until next time.....

Stan

Featured Post: Speaking of "center," here's a post about another "center," this one in Kansas!