Golden owl found
31-year treasure hunt ends in France
October 3, 2024, 10:38 p.m
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A man hid a golden owl somewhere in France in 1993. Treasure hunters tried to find the sculpture using the eleven clues left behind. However, it took a long time and the animal even rusted during this time.
The Golden Owl has been found: A treasure hunt that lasted a good three decades, in which thousands took part in France, appears to have come to a happy end. “We confirm that the owl replica has been unearthed,” one of the game’s organizers said on its Internet forum. The bronze owl was buried in 1993 in an unknown location, to which a book with eleven riddles provided clues.
The finder should be able to exchange the replica for an owl weighing around ten kilograms, made of precious metals and studded with diamonds. Their value was originally estimated at **150,000 euros**. While the replica lay safely in its hiding place, the real owl had an eventful fate.
It was temporarily confiscated by an insolvency administrator. In 2009, the only person who had known about the hiding place died. He left an envelope with the coordinates at a notary, over which there was a legal dispute that lasted for years. In 2021, the hiding place was checked in the presence of a bailiff – and the now rusted animal was replaced with a new replica. After several new editions of the puzzle book, new treasure hunters continued to take part in the game – which is now approaching its real end, namely the exchange of the bronze owl for her rich sister.
Meanwhile, the world’s longest-running treasure hunt is still ongoing. This is “The Secret” by Byron Preiss, which was published in 1982. It’s about the search for twelve boxes of treasure buried in secret locations across the USA and Canada, of which only three have been found so far.
The Legacy of the Golden Owl Treasure Hunt
The Golden Owl treasure hunt has become a significant part of French culture and has drawn in a variety of participants, from families to serious treasure hunters. Its legacy centers around numerous key elements:
- Community Engagement: The hunt fostered a community of treasure seekers who exchanged theories and ideas in forums and social media.
- Creative Problem Solving: The eleven clues required critical thinking and innovative approaches, enhancing the intellectual appeal of the hunt.
- Cultural Significance: The Golden Owl stands as a symbol of adventure and the allure of hidden treasure, inspiring stories and legends across generations.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Treasure Hunters
If you are interested in participating in treasure hunts similar to the Golden Owl, consider the following practical tips:
- Research Thoroughly: Start by researching past treasure hunts to understand the patterns and techniques used in clue creation.
- Join Treasure Hunting Communities: Online forums and social media groups provide a platform to connect with others who share your interests.
- Stay Updated: Follow current treasure hunts and keep an eye on new publications that may provide clues or insights.
- Document Findings: Keep a journal of your findings and theories to track your progress and analyze different ideas.
Comparative Treasure Hunts
| Treasure Hunt | Year Started | Location | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Owl | 1993 | France | Completed |
| The Secret | 1982 | USA/Canada | Ongoing |
| Thrill of the Chase | 2010 | Rocky Mountains, USA | Ongoing |
| Secret Treasure! | 2019 | Global | Ongoing |
This table highlights notable treasure hunts similar to the Golden Owl, showcasing varying durations and statuses.
Conclusion
The excitement surrounding the Golden Owl treasure hunt reflects a universal fascination with adventure and the unknown. As the treasure hunting community celebrates this milestone, new challenges and opportunities await for those bold enough to seek out hidden treasures across the world.
