ALLTOURS

What is the origin of the name Montréal? And other "Mon" mysteries.

1. Rome's Mountain of Potsherds

Rome, Italy

This "mountain" in Rome isn't natural, but an ancient landfill made entirely of broken olive oil amphorae.

2. The Zapotec's Flattened Mountain

Oaxaca, Mexico

An entire mountaintop was leveled by an ancient civilization to build their sacred city.

3. The Land of the Black Mountain

Montenegro

This entire country's name translates to "Black Mountain," inspired by its dense, dark forests.

4. France's "Pestle Hill" City

Montpellier, France

One theory suggests this city's name doesn't mean "beautiful mountain" but "pestle hill" or "peeling hill."

5. Jefferson's "Little Mountain"

Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

Thomas Jefferson designed his iconic home on a "little mountain," reflecting his belief in agrarian self-sufficiency and Enlightenment ideals.

6. Belgium's "Mountain" of Strategic Significance

Hainaut, Belgium

This city, named for a "mountain," sits on a modest hill that proved strategically vital in countless European conflicts.

7. Catalonia's Sawtooth Mountain

Catalonia, Spain

Named for its dramatically jagged, "sawtooth" peaks, this mountain range is steeped in both geological wonder and spiritual legend.

8. The Pink Mountain's Glacial Glow

Pennine Alps, Switzerland/Italy

Despite its name, "Pink Mountain" refers not to flora but to the stunning alpenglow on its glaciers at dawn and dusk.

UNCOVER HIDDEN STORIES

What's in a Name? So Much More.

Point your phone camera at any landscape or landmark. Hear its unique history, geology, and culture in your language.