Unknown facts about Leonardo Da Vinci

Leonardo famously wrote most of his notes backward, readable only with a mirror. Scholars believe this may have been to protect his ideas or simply because he was left-handed.

This scientific notebook, focused on water and astronomy, is one of Leonardo’s most famous manuscripts and was purchased by Bill Gates in 1994 for over $30 million.

Leonardo was born out of wedlock in 1452, which prevented him from receiving a formal university education but may have freed him to pursue diverse interests.

Centuries ahead of his time, Leonardo reportedly avoided eating meat and was known for purchasing caged birds just to set them free.

Leonardo left many major works incomplete, including "Adoration of the Magi" and "Saint Jerome in the Wilderness," reflecting his perfectionism and shifting interests.

Long before modern aviation, Leonardo sketched detailed designs for ornithopters and parachutes, demonstrating a deep understanding of aerodynamics.

This ambitious fresco in Florence was never completed and later disappeared, becoming one of art history’s greatest mysteries.

Leonardo trained in Verrocchio’s workshop in Florence, where his talent reportedly surpassed his master’s in collaborative works like "The Baptism of Christ."

Leonardo dissected dozens of human bodies to create remarkably accurate anatomical drawings, far ahead of medical knowledge of his era.

Though naturally left-handed, Leonardo could draw and write with both hands simultaneously, showcasing extraordinary coordination and intellect.