Sound is a huge part of our life, and its magic can be found in the acoustic anomalies present all over the world, just waiting to be discovered. Acoustic anomalies can be fascinating and sometimes a bit spooky. They serve as a reminder that there is still much to discover about the fascinating world of sound surrounding us.
Get along as we go through the 10 Mysterious Acoustic Anomalies of the world.
The Bench of Whispers—Alameda Park, Spain
The Alameda Park is located in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. It is home to a modest bench that happens to be a banco acústico — an acoustic bench.
If you visit the park, put your head against the back and whisper as quietly as possible, you can feel the sound of your voice traveling all the way to the other end. Interestingly, try speaking in a soft voice, and your voice gets amplified as if someone were talking loudly! In 1916, the bench was built in the park and its unique acoustic properties were discovered just after. It served as a remarkable spot for young and old lovers alike, as many couples would frequent the spot.
We don’t understand if the secrets and whispers are audible to someone seated in the middle of the bench. If they can, let’s trust they have good secret-keeping abilities!
The Center of the Universe—Tulsa, Oklahoma
In the center of downtown Tulsa, you will find an odd concrete circle. It is recognized as the “Center of the Universe ” and is positioned within a larger brick circle This part has quite simple features, but it hides a curious acoustic happening not many know about.
If one steps into this small concrete ring and creates noise, their voice gets echoed back to them even louder, as if they were in a private echo room.
This story might be a bit exaggerated, but indeed when someone speaks at the center of the circle, their voice does sound twisted to those outside. Many people have studied this acoustic oddity over the years, yet its exact cause still remains unknown.
Lake George Mystery Spot—Lake George, New York
Much like the “Center of the Universe,” a stone circle situated just behind the Lake George visitor center in New York State exhibits a fascinating acoustic anomaly that defies conventional principles of sound. At this circle’s centre, two metal rails intersect with each other and create an X shape making it what is famously known as a “mystery spot.”
If someone stands exactly at the X and look towards the lake, any loud noise you make will return back as an echo from another dimension. But there’s a twist— only you can hear it and in can be heard in that place only.
There have been many explanations for this acoustic anomalism, however, the most fascinating explanation is a native legend from American Indian culture. They say a long time ago an old god showed up at a mystery spot where his knowledge echoed all over the lake.
No matter what the reason for this natural happening, the Lake George mystery spot remains a secret that is hidden in plain view!
Grand Central Terminal Whispering Gallery—Manhattan, New York
In the lower level of Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal, you’ll find a striking domed walkway intersection. If you put your ear against the tiling of this intersection, an amazing thing can happen: You could hear even very soft sounds over all noise from the crowd around you—this area acts as what we call a “whispering gallery.”
The reason for this interesting acoustical occurrence stems from how the station gallery’s structure comprises delicate arches. The tiling is distinct and special, known as Gustavino style – this term comes from the patented methods of Rafael Gustavino, who was a Spanish tile worker.
His detailed work can be seen in the station and throughout the city too. In 2012 there was a plan for restoration of tilework but Metropolitan Transport Authority gave assurance that unique acoustical anomaly will not be troubled with.
The Ear of Dionysius—Syracuse, Italy
The Ear of Dionysius, a cave in Syracuse, Italy is shaped like a teardrop and just its sheer size makes it impressive. But what truly astonishes people are the acoustic properties of this place. Even the faintest sounds can be heard from the upper section of the cave!
The special characteristic of the cave is it’s elongated shape with a narrow tunnel that opens into a vast cavern beneath. It is thought to have been formed long ago from a primitive limestone quarry.
Nevertheless, some individuals believe that the cave’s unique shape is a result of natural occurrences and has been preserved because it was considered sacred for its distinct acoustic properties. The Italian painter Caravaggio gave the cave its name – Dionysius’ Ear.
The legend goes on saying how this cavern served him well; he utilized it like many others before him did too: trapping people inside while keeping watch through an opening at the topmost part where any sound made below could be heard even if spoken softly. But according to recent investigations into these accounts, this story seems doubtful. Although the cave’s form does enhance sound significantly, it can still make clear words seem distorted at times
Echo Bridge—Newton, Massachusetts
Echo Bridge, a magnificent architecture with exceptional acoustic quality made in 1877, was initially part of the Needham and Newton Upper Falls aqueduct. These days this bridge offers both beautiful views and entertainment because it has unique sound effects too.
If you wish to see this acoustical oddity yourself there is a platform made for curious visitors like yourself who want to feel its sound effects. This is at the base of certain stairs just under the bridge.
The sound effect is like a big echo that returns about 15 reverberations of your voice – if it’s very loud and sharp, even up to 25 times! This marvelous echo occurs when sound jumps back and forth horizontally between arch and water; but another theory states this happens because of how curved shape echoes sounds.
No matter what causes it, you are sure to have fun with this acoustical strange thing.
Thurgoland Tunnel—Thurgoland, England
Thurgoland,is a small village in England with a tunnel which has an amazing acoustical oddity. The Thurgoland tunnel was once used for trains on the Sheffield to Manchester line and built in the 1940s. Because this line was electric-powered, it did not have space for two sets of conductors in its two-line tunnel from the 19th century.
If you go inside the Thurgoland tunnel and clap your hands, there will be a sound of rhythmic beat that keeps on going back and forth for about 20 seconds.
If you are a train lover, this tunnel is going to be an excellent pitstop for you to discover because it has impressive architecture and historical value. But the acoustic phenomenon inside makes it even more interesting.
Växjö Echo Tower—Växjö, Sweden
In the Teleborg area of Växjö, Sweden, there is a water tower called Teleborg and it has an interesting acoustic effect. If you stand underneath the doomed reservoir which is in the middle of this water tower, every sound that happens will be shown back to you.
Sound bounces off from all directions and come back to where they started, therefore creating a sort of echo chamber effect. The construction date for that reservoir was 1974 so these acoustic effects were a total accident; people found out about them only after building it!
The Echo Tower used to be somewhat secret, known mainly by people who live here. But the news got around and now it’s a very famous place for tourists to visit.
Sagano Bamboo Forest—Kyoto, Japan
Ever heard of Bamboo forest creating music? Situated on the border of Kyoto in Japan, Sagano Bamboo Forest is a stark contrast to the city area it’s found within. Paths made of wood twist and turn through this dense growth full with bamboo stalks measuring dozens of feet tall!
When wind passes by this place, these bamboo stalks start creaking as they bend and knock together creating a special peaceful sound.
This is avery touristy area but you can also manage to come during less crowd, then what awaits your eyes and ears will be truly astonishing!
The Wave Organ—San Francisco, California
Stroll along San Francisco Bay where you will find the wave organ. This was constructed in 1986 by artist Peter Richards as an acoustic structure that amplifies the sound of waves in this bay.It is situated near mthe Crissy Bay Centre, a significant landmark in the city.
The wave organ consists of more than 20 pipes made from concrete and PVC which stretch out into water; when waves hit these tubes it creates sound similar to liquid music. You can listen to the sounds of waves hitting pipes, creating gurgling noises that match with the continuous movement of water and shifting tides.
Conclusion
We just discussed the top 10 acoustic anomalies in the world. However, this world is full of many mysteries. Which mystery awaits you next?
