1) The world's first insurance policy was issued in 1347 in Genoa, Italy. It insured against the risk of maritime trade.

2) The ancient city of Pompeii was preserved under layers of volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, providing valuable insights into Roman life.

3) The Earth's core is hotter than the surface of the Sun.

4) The Tour de France, first held in 1903, is one of the most prestigious and grueling cycling races, covering over 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) in three weeks.