The Unusual Toilet Design That Often Surprises Travelers — And the Practical Reason Behind It

Before modern plumbing and test kits, shelf toilets helped people and doctors inspect stool for signs of illness before it was flushed away. Though unusual to many today, they were once a practical health feature. While newer toilet designs became more popular for better hygiene and odor control, shelf toilets can still be found in some older European buildings as a reminder of changing ideas about health and sanitation.