Lake Serre-Ponçon, known as the ‘Sea in the Mountains,’ was formed in 1961, when the Durance River was dammed to help prevent flooding in nearby communities. It’s considered one of the largest manmade lakes in Europe and is a major source of hydroelectric power, irrigation, and tourism. The historic Chapel of St. Michel, established in 1020 and rebuilt in the 17th century, survived the flooding of the valley—but it became an island destination in the process.
Chapel of St. Michel on Lake Serre-Ponçon, Hautes-Alpes, France
Today in History
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March of the flowers
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Summer winds down in the Southern Hemisphere
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Summer winds down in the Southern Hemisphere
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Finding a balance between wetlands and water treatment
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Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
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Terraced rice fields, Yuanyang County, China
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Roques de Benet, Els Ports Natural Park, Catalonia, Spain
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Plum blossoms in China
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Te Rewa Rewa Bridge near New Plymouth, New Zealand
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Pumpkin field, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act marks 42 years
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Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota
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This grizzly has Napping Day down
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Black History Month
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Glenariff Forest Park, Northern Ireland, UK
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Green sea turtle on World Oceans Day
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The Unfinished Obelisk near Aswan, Egypt
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An old celebration for a new season
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Black bear cub emerging into spring
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Oh, to sleep under the northern lights
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International Museum Day
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International Day of Forests
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Young black caiman, Tambopata National Reserve, Peru
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Dreaming of the Tyrrhenian Sea
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Happy Mothers Day!
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Mesmerizing murmuration
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Pantaleu
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By the light of the fireflies
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World Migratory Bird Day
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Silent night, sparkling lights, and hearts full of joy
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Pearl of the Adriatic
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Nursing the world to health
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Cool water in the Quinault
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Galeries Lafayette, Paris
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Antarctica Day
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International Literacy Day
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Pretty in pink, and purple, and red…
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From pirate port to nature preserve