National Treasure Day

Family in a museum, examining a treasure map. Mother in polka dot dress, father in tweed jacket, kids in explorer outfits.. — National treasure day illustration

Everyday we're looking for a reason to celebrate, aren't we? Well, dear reader, look no further cuz' boy, do we have a surprise for you - it's National Treasure Day! Who ever expected to be digging into the fun facts and internet history of a day that celebrates a thrilling Nicolas Cage film, right? But, as surprising as it might sound, there's more to it than meets the eye!

When is Treasure Day?

It's national treasure day on the 15th December.

Do We Hear Exciting Adventure Music in the Distance?

Let's be honest here, who amongst us hasn't daydreamed about being a part of a thrilling adventure while watching the movie 'National Treasure'? It's a movie that ticks all the right boxes - story, drama, mystery, action, and an intriguing treasure hunt. And guess what? The internet decided to celebrate precisely that, with a National Treasure Day! This day saw the highest number of mentions on December 15, 2020, with 2964 quips, quotes, memes and more echoing across the vast expanse of the internet.

Brushing Off the Cobwebs of History

The movie 'National Treasure', released in 2004, kept audiences on the edge of their seats as our hero decrypted clues from history to find hidden treasure. Very much reflecting this adventurous spirit, National Treasure Day has become a day where people celebrate their love for history, puzzles, mysteries, and of course, the film itself.

Celebrating National Treasure Day

So, how exactly does one celebrate this day? Some people watch the movie, obviously! Others organize fun treasure hunts with friends and family, where they hide treasures and leave clues for the participants. It's like a fun workout! And then there are those of us who spend this day engrossed in riveting history books, losing ourselves in tales of mystery, marvel and more.

Fun, Fun, and More Fun!

No matter how you choose to spend it, remember National Treasure Day is all about embracing the fun, the adventure, and the joy of following a trail of clues to uncover hidden treasures (real, imagined or cinematic!). So get ready, put on your adventurer ball cap, and let's celebrate National Treasure Day!

History behind the term 'Treasure'

12th century

The emergence of the term 'treasure'

The term 'treasure' derives from the Old French word 'tresor' and can be traced back to the 12th century. It initially referred to any collection of valuable objects, whether monetary or not. During this time, treasures were often buried for safekeeping or hidden away in secret locations.

14th century

Pirates and the Age of Exploration

The term 'treasure' gained significant popularity during the 14th century with the rise of piracy and the Age of Exploration. As European explorers sailed the seas in search of new lands, they often encountered indigenous cultures with rich resources and precious goods. These encounters led to the discovery of magnificent treasures, including gold, silver, gemstones, and other valuable artifacts, which were highly sought after by pirates and adventurers alike.

16th century

Shipwrecks and sunken treasures

The 16th century marked a notable increase in the fascination with sunken treasures. As maritime trade expanded, so did the number of shipwrecks in treacherous waters. Ships carrying precious cargoes, such as spices, gold, and jewels, often met unfortunate fates at the hands of storms, conflicts, or navigational errors. This era gave rise to the allure of uncovering lost treasures hidden beneath the ocean's depths.

19th century

Archaeology and antiquities

During the 19th century, the concept of treasure expanded beyond monetary worth. Archaeologists and explorers began to consider ancient artifacts, historical documents, and cultural relics as valuable treasures worthy of preservation and study. This period witnessed the exploration of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Mesopotamia, leading to the discovery of magnificent treasures like the Rosetta Stone and intricate burial sites full of precious artifacts.

21st century

Pop culture and media

In the 21st century, the term 'treasure' has permeated popular culture and media. Television shows, movies, and video games often revolve around treasure hunting adventures, capturing the excitement and allure of discovering hidden riches. From classics like Indiana Jones to modern-day franchises like National Treasure, the idea of uncovering a long-lost treasure continues to captivate audiences worldwide, fueling their imagination and curiosity.

Did you know?

Did you know that 'National Treasure' inspired several real-life treasure hunters to embark on adventurous expeditions? While none resulted in finding an actual national treasure, their stories make for riveting anecdotal lore!