After 31 years of anticipation, the world’s longest treasure hunt has come to an end with the remarkable discovery of a golden owl valued at £200,000. The journey to find this elusive treasure has captivated countless enthusiasts, leading them on a winding path filled with riddles and intrigue. The hunt, known for its intricate puzzles, was initiated by Régis Hauser in 1993, and it has finally reached its thrilling conclusion.
The Origins of the Hunt
The saga began when Régis Hauser, under the pseudonym Max Valentin, buried a replica of the golden owl somewhere in France. “I wanted to create an adventure that would last for generations,” Hauser remarked about his ambitious project. The original golden owl, adorned with gold, silver, and diamonds, was intended as a reward for those brave enough to uncover its hidden bronze counterpart. The initial value of the golden owl was set at one million francs, roughly equivalent to €246,000 (£206,000) today. This rich history added to the allure of the treasure, drawing in treasure hunters from around the globe.
The Role of Michel Becker
Following Hauser’s passing in 2009, illustrator Michel Becker took over the treasure hunt’s proceedings. His stewardship ensured that the hunt continued, maintaining the excitement that surrounded the golden owl. On Thursday, October 3, Becker made several announcements via the official chatline, revealing significant developments in the search. “A potential winning solution is currently being verified,” he stated, indicating that the hunt was approaching its climax. Two hours later, he provided an update, confirming that the treasure had indeed been unearthed, much to the excitement of dedicated hunters.
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The Riddles and Their Challenges
To find the hidden treasure, participants had to solve 11 complex riddles laid out in Hauser’s book. Each riddle was designed to challenge and inspire, guiding treasure hunters through the enchanting landscapes of France. Becker acknowledged the difficulties faced by participants, stating, “The riddles were meant to be a mental workout, and I’m thrilled that so many engaged with them over the years.” The intricate puzzles created a vibrant community of “owlers,” each contributing to the lore and legacy of the hunt while sharing their theories and solutions.
A Shift in Rules
Last year, Becker implemented significant changes to the rules of the treasure hunt to streamline the process and discourage unnecessary spending. In his efforts to prevent treasure hunters from digging indiscriminately across the French countryside, he established a system where participants could submit their solutions online. “We wanted to protect the landscape and ensure that people could still enjoy the thrill of the hunt without breaking local laws,” Becker explained. Although the new system was optional, it marked a shift towards a more organized approach to treasure hunting.
The End of an Era
With the golden owl finally found, the hunt that began 31 years ago has concluded, leaving behind a legacy of adventure and excitement. The thrill of the chase, combined with the clever riddles, has united treasure hunters from all walks of life. “It’s not just about the treasure; it’s about the journey we took together,” Becker reflected on the community forged through the hunt. As participants celebrate this monumental discovery, the golden owl stands as a symbol of perseverance and curiosity, inspiring future generations to seek out their own adventures.
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