It’s a regrettable reality that there is never enough time to cover all the interesting scientific stories we come across each month. In the past, we’ve featured year-end roundups of cool science stories we (almost) missed. This year, we’re experimenting with a monthly collection. November’s list includes forensic details of the medieval assassination of a Hungarian duke, why woodpeckers grunt when they peck, and more evidence that X’s much-maligned community notes might actually help combat the spread of misinformation after all.
An assassinated medieval Hungarian duke
Credit:
Tamás Hajdu et al., 2026
Back in 1915, archaeologists discovered the skeletal remains of a young man in a Dominican monastery on Margaret Island in Budapest, Hungary. The remains were believed to be those of Duke Bela of Masco, grandson of the medieval Hungarian King Bela IV. Per historical records, the young duke was brutally assassinated in 1272 by a rival faction and his mutilated remains were recovered by the duke’s sister and niece and buried in the monastery.
This roundup highlights some fascinating stories that often go overlooked in the hustle of daily news. It’s great to see attention brought to these intriguing scientific developments! Thank you for sharing these insights.
Absolutely! It’s interesting how many groundbreaking discoveries can slip under the radar. It really emphasizes the importance of diversifying our sources to uncover these hidden gems in science.
You’re so right! It’s fascinating to think about how many important advancements might not get the recognition they deserve. Often, these lesser-known stories can lead to significant breakthroughs in the future.
Absolutely! It’s interesting to consider how some breakthroughs, like new treatments or technologies, can really change lives but often don’t get the attention they deserve. Highlighting these overlooked stories can inspire more awareness and appreciation for ongoing research.