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The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
Lightsabers gleam and droids beep; let"s all geek! Today"s image flashes out a filming location from the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, the island of Skellig Michael, off the coast of southwestern Ireland. This UNESCO World Heritage landmark houses a preserved monastery from the 6th century, founded by early monks. The site"s beehive huts and stone staircases were showcased as the backdrop of a cloistered island on planet Ahch-To, where Jedi Master Luke Skywalker sought refuge in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Skellig Michael"s abundant seabird population, including puffins, inspired the creation of the penguin-like porgs that roost on Ahch-To. So, grab your Wookiee co-pilot, hop in your starship and may the force be strong as you journey through this galactic Earth location not so far away!Desktop Version
Northern hawk-owl
Northern hawk-owl
Do you find yourself thriving in the daytime while your friends love to stay out late? If so, you"ve got a friend in the northern hawk-owl, one of the world"s few owls that is only active during the day. This vocal bird inhabits the boreal forests of North America and Eurasia and has different calls for mating, communicating with young and announcing that danger is nearby. Northern hawk-owls aren"t picky eaters, they"ll consume mice, rats, voles, lemmings, rabbits, shrews, moles, occasionally other small birds and have even been seen eating frogs and fish. No worries, we"re not on the menu, but if you wander too close to their nest, protective parents have been known to swoop at humans to keep them away.Desktop Version
Toledo, Spain
Toledo, Spain
Toledo, a city situated in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain, is known for its unique geography. Positioned on a raised mass of land, the city is embraced by the Tagus River on three sides. This splendid city was called "The City of Three Cultures" during the Middle Ages, where Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities coexisted harmoniously. Toledo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and its historical core is packed with mosques, synagogues and an impressive Gothic cathedral. The city has a strong Moorish cultural influence, left over from their arrival around the eighth century. The city was once home to the painter El Greco in the 16th century. He had an impact on Toledo, creating some of his most significant works, like the Assumption of the Virgin, which is considered one of his greatest masterpieces. Before the 16th century, Toledo"s sword-making industry was known as one of Europe"s finest.Desktop Version
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Carved by time, wind and water, Capitol Reef National Park showcases rust-hued cliffs and the natural beauty of the American West. President Franklin D. Roosevelt recognised the park"s splendour by designating it as a national monument in 1937, and later it was elevated to a national park in 1971. The park was named after a series of Navajo sandstone domes that were said to resemble the US Capitol Building, while the Waterpocket Fold was referred to as a reef since it obstructed smooth transportation. Known as "a wrinkle in the Earth"s crust," the Waterpocket Fold was carved by eons of erosion. The 161-kilometre-long monocline—a step-like fold—was presumably formed around 50 to 70 million years ago, and is home to towering cliffs, narrow canyons and colourful rock formations.Desktop Version
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people have lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional houses—called rorbu—are built on poles over water and add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia
What a lovely city! The Slavic word "ljub" means "to love", and it serves as the prefix to Slovenia"s capital city, Ljubljana, and the Ljubljunica River that runs through it. This relatively small capital, with a population just under 300,000, was established on a trade route connecting the northern Adriatic Sea and the Danube region. To the south of the city lies the Ljubljana Marsh, the largest marsh in the country, covering 422 square kilometres. While modern buildings have cropped up on the city"s periphery, the core of town preserves its historic structures, which have ancient Roman and medieval elements. Examples include Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge and the historic Old Town. Keep an eye out while you stroll around, you might encounter the city"s symbol, the Ljubljana Dragon.Desktop Version
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Today"s photo shows an evocative sunset that illuminates the town of Sestri Levante. Italy, with stunning colours. This pearl hidden among the coasts of the Riviera Ligure di Levante enchants its visitors with its natural beauty and a historical heritage rooted as far back as Roman times. Situated between Portofino and the Cinque Terre, it offers breathtaking landscapes and beaches such as the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole, the latter linked to the legend of Hans Christian Andersen and his "Little Mermaid." The Punta Manara Natural Park and the ancient medieval streets enrich the experience, making Sestri Levante a destination of rare beauty and historical charm.Desktop Version
Castildetierra in the Bardenas Reales, Navarre, Spain
Castildetierra in the Bardenas Reales, Navarre, Spain
In the heart of the Bardenas Reales of Navarre, a unique semi-desert landscape in Spain, rises Castildetierra, the most iconic rock formation in the area. Its silhouette, reminiscent of a natural tower eroded by wind and water, is a symbol of this territory declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.Desktop Version
Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is one of the longest manmade structures in the world. Stretching more than 21,000 kilometres and dating back thousands of years, the ancient marvel in today"s picture is a series of fortifications spanning rugged mountains, valleys and deserts. Although it was originally conceived in the 3rd century BCE, some of its most famous sections were built during the Ming dynasty between the 14th and 17th centuries CE. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases advanced ancient engineering and remains a symbol of Chinese history and culture. Featuring steep trenches and watchtowers, parts of it were designed to keep invaders at bay. Hiking the Great Wall offers a unique glimpse into this historical landmark. The experience varies from well-preserved sections like Mutianyu to wild, unrestored parts such as Jiankou. Some steps are so high, they"re more like steps on a ladder! The Great Wall of China isn"t just a wall, but a symbol of perseverance and strength.Desktop Version
Alpine marmot
Alpine marmot
Curious to know more about this cute creature? The Alpine marmot seen here today is a close relative of ground squirrels and prairie dogs and belongs to the squirrel family. They store plant stems in their burrows as cosy bedding to prepare for their hibernation. This helps them endure the weather conditions and scarcity of food that often occur during winter. They engage in communication with one another through a range of auditory signals, including whistles, screams and teeth chattering. Did you know - Groundhog burrows have latrine chambers, located far away from the sleeping and eating areas of the burrow to keep them clean and hygienic? Fascinating, isn"t it?Desktop Version
Gran Paradiso National Park, Piedmont, Italy
Gran Paradiso National Park, Piedmont, Italy
In the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, straddling Piedmont and Valle d"Aosta, an alpine landscape of rare beauty is revealed, where snow-capped peaks are reflected in crystal-clear lakes. This corner of paradise invites visitors to get lost in its natural wonders, offering a spectacle that seems to come out of a dream. The majestic and imposing mountains stand as silent guardians, while the lakes, with their clear and calm waters, reflect the blue sky and the surrounding peaks.Desktop Version
Golden larches and Prusik Peak, Enchantments, Washington, USA
Golden larches and Prusik Peak, Enchantments, Washington, USA
Washington State"s Enchantments region boasts more than 700 alpine lakes and ponds. Long before European settlers arrived, the Enchantments were home to Native American tribes such as the Yakima, Chinook and Wenatchi. Waves of logging and mining in the 1900s transformed much of the landscape. Today, herds of mountain goats graze across the park, and ptarmigans roost in trees.Desktop Version
Alpine marmots, Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
Alpine marmots, Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
Alpine marmots are among the most charismatic inhabitants of the central European mountains. They stand out for their social life and their ability to adapt to the harshest winters. They live in colonies that cooperate with each other and use sharp whistles to warn of predators. Their bodies are robust, and they have thick coats of fur that protect them from extreme cold. During winter, they hibernate for several months thanks to a remarkable drop in body temperature. They dig extensive underground tunnels where they take shelter and raise their young. In today"s image, we see alpine marmots in Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria, a landscape where this animal has become a symbol of high mountain life. Observing them in the wild allows us to admire their social behaviour and survival skills, connecting visitors with nature in its most authentic state.Desktop Version
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Tourists often equate Hawaii with relaxation, but one of its most well-known attractions—the Road to Hana—might have you gripping a steering wheel tightly. Stretching for 103 kilometres along the northern coast of Maui from Kahului to the quiet town of Hana, the highway has over 600 curves and numerous one-lane bridges. The drive takes focus, so don"t forget to stop and relax at the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Some highlights along the route include the Waikamoi Ridge Trail, the easily accessible Twin Falls and the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park.Desktop Version
Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
This scenic view is of Lake Tekapo on the South Island of New Zealand. The lake undergoes a remarkable transformation each year from mid-November to December, when vibrant Russell lupines burst into colour, elevating the natural beauty to new heights. The plants" blooming heads, made up of pea-like flowers, can reach up to 150 centimetres. While photographers and nature lovers come to witness the varied hues of purple, blue and yellow lupins spread wide across Lake Tekapo, the Russell lupines have a somewhat controversial story. These invasive, exotic plants grow in dense stands, boxing out other flora. While these plants might be appealing to tourists, they can create a negative imbalance in the region"s ecosystem.Desktop Version
Maldives
Maldives
With serene sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, the island country of the Maldives is located to the southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The archipelago is renowned for its seafood, lagoons and countless coconut palms. These 1,200 islands are made up of a chain of 26 atolls. Atolls are islands in the shape of rings with coral rims and lagoons in their centre. The Maldives is also home to the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, which was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in June 2011. Visitors go there to spot manta rays and whale sharks and can enjoy sustainable water activities like scuba diving and surfing.Desktop Version
Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California, USA
Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California, USA
Unlike its Italian namesake, Venice in California, USA, is not known for canals and quaint cobblestone streets. It is, instead, a skateboarder"s paradise. Located next to the sun-kissed shores of Venice Beach, the Venice Skatepark stands as a testament to the rich history of skateboarding in the state.Desktop Version
Macaroni penguins
Macaroni penguins
How many kinds of penguins can you name? Today"s snapshot features agile macaroni penguins swimming in the plankton-rich waters of the Drake Passage in Chile. These charming creatures are just one of 18 different species of penguin found in the Southern Hemisphere and can be recognised by their peculiar amber crests and prominent orange beak. Macaroni penguins gather in foraging groups, but males can be aggressive towards each other. To show passivity and avoid a fight, individuals often ease through colonies with their heads tucked down to their chests. Despite being beloved by us humans, penguins are threatened by reduced food availability, errant fishing nets and the profound impact of climate change on their habitat, sea ice.Desktop Version
Fallow deer in Bradgate Park, England
Fallow deer in Bradgate Park, England
Fallow deer are known for their striking coat, which changes colour with the seasons and is often adorned with white spots in the summer. During the autumn rutting season, males spar with each other to establish their dominance. These male deer can be spotted by their palmate antlers, which have a broad, flattened surface. Fallow deer are native to Europe and parts of Asia, and are a common sight in Leicestershire, England, particularly in Bradgate Park. This 340-hectare park not only offers a sanctuary for these animals, but also features beautiful landscapes, woodlands and the Beacon Hill Tower, which offers panoramic views of the area.Desktop Version
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
The history of olive cultivation in one of the Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain, dates back over 2,000 years. The Phoenicians and Greeks, who were early settlers here, introduced the first olive trees to the island. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which adorns the north coast, is home to these olive groves. The olive groves expanded during the Islamic era, and olive oil became a crucial ingredient in Majorca"s gastronomy and culinary traditions.Desktop Version
Iguazu Falls seen from Paraná, Brazil
Iguazu Falls seen from Paraná, Brazil
Featured in today"s image is one of the largest waterfall systems in the world—Iguazu Falls—located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, within the Iguazu River. Spanning approximately 3 kilometres in width, the tallest waterfalls reach up to 82 metres. The falls consist of around 275 individual waterfalls—each one different, yet all equally mesmerising. One of the most iconic features of the falls is the Devil"s Throat canyon, which is almost 90 metres wide and nearly 80 metres deep. The name "Iguazu" is derived from the Guarani or Tupi words "y," meaning water, and "ûasú," means big. Here, every drop of water, every trail and every encounter tells a story of beauty, strength and connection.Desktop Version
A great egret in the Pantanal
A great egret in the Pantanal
Walking carefully between the floating leaves of water lilies is a delicate white egret in the tranquil waters of the Pantanal region, Brazil. These birds can regulate their body temperature by adjusting exposure to the sun and their own wings to control body heat. They are usually monogamous, forming pairs that remain together for several breeding seasons. During mating, they perform impressive rituals, including dances and vocalisations, to strengthen the couple"s bond.Desktop Version
Ria de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
Ria de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
Are you ready for a journey through time? Every spring, the people of Vigo dress in history, as their streets go back to 1809 to celebrate the Reconquest of Vigo, Spain. This event commemorates a milestone in history that marked a before and after in the city of olives, turning Vigo into the first European city to successfully expel the Napoleonic troops. Dressed in the attire of peasants and sailors, the villagers recreate this battle in honour of local history. The youngest ones also have their moment in the "Reconquistiña," where this period of history is revived in a playful and educational way.Desktop Version
Floating fruit market, Kaptai Lake, Rangamati, Bangladesh
Floating fruit market, Kaptai Lake, Rangamati, Bangladesh
Every Saturday, the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh comes to life with colours and flavours. Kaptai Lake in Rangamati District is home to the floating market of seasonal fruits, seen in today"s image. However, Kaptai"s charm lies deeper. The lake was created in 1961 to generate hydropower, submerging not just land and the palace of the king of the Chakmas but a way of life, displacing 100,000 people. Yet resilience bore out; communities adapted, and now, their buoyant bazaar has become a livelihood. Here, farmers navigate their wooden vessels along the bank to engage with eager buyers. You can leave with a bag full of fresh fruits or just a bunch of unforgettable memories, whatever floats your boat.Desktop Version
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
The enchanting Isle of Skye in Scotland is home to the Sligachan Old Bridge, engineered and built by Thomas Telford, a prolific Scottish civil engineer, in the early 1800s. The bridge arches over a river of the same name, and is accessible only to cyclists and pedestrians, while a modern bridge downstream serves car traffic. From atop the bridge"s weathered, humble and mossy stones, travellers can take in the majestic Cuillin Mountains in the distance. According to local tradition, the Sligachan River"s water contains a mysterious blessing provided by fairies. Those who dare to immerse their faces in these waters are said to be gifted with timeless beauty.Desktop Version