Borobudur temple, Java, Indonesia Dec 29, 2024

Imagine a colossal puzzle made from over 2 million stone blocks—that"s Borobudur, seen in today"s image. Built during the 9th century in the reign of the Shailendra dynasty—an influential ruling family in Southeast Asia—it"s the world"s largest Buddhist temple, standing tall on the island of Java, Indonesia. This ancient sanctum has withstood centuries of natural challenges, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, thanks to its advanced interlocking stone system. Historically, Borobudur was an important pilgrimage site. The structure is divided into three sections: the base has detailed carvings that teach moral lessons; the middle level consists of five square terraces with reliefs depicting daily life and historical events; and the upper levels are three circular platforms with 72 stupas—mound-like structures containing Buddha statues.

© Robertharding/Shutterstock

palette

Today in History

The butterfly effect
Dec 29, 2023Oud-West neighbourhood, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Dec 29, 2025St. Gregory Church in Ani Ruins, Kars, Türkiye

More Desktop Wallpapers:

Apr 8, 2024Burrowing owl chicks
Hello, is it tea you’re looking for?
Apr 2, 2025Sandstone formations in the badlands near Caineville, Utah, United States
Mar 26, 2026Logan Creek Suspension Bridge, West Coast Trail, Canada
Mar 26, 2024Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam
Jun 21, 2024International Day of Yoga
Jun 28, 2026Saguaro cacti, Windgate Pass, Arizona, United States
A small but mighty guardian
Oct 23, 2024Madame Sherri Forest, New Hampshire, United States
Dec 18, 2023Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
76 glorious years of independence
Sep 26, 2023Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California
Fourth rock from the sun
Oct 15, 2025Amethyst laccaria mushrooms, Seabeck, Washington, United States
Aug 10, 2026Joshua Tree National Park, California, United States
Aug 7, 2026Ah‑Shi‑Sle‑Pah Wilderness, New Mexico, United States
Sep 3, 2023Skyscrapers in Manhattan
Sept 20, 2026Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Mar 23, 2026World Meteorological Day
Jan 3, 2024Virupaksha temple, Hampi, Karnataka
So close, yet so far
Jun 15, 2024Nazaré, Portugal
Apr 14, 2026Ambedkar Jayanti
Nature’s own canvas
Home of the ‘world’s worst smelling food’?
Nov 28, 2025Val Brandet, Brescia, Lombardy, Italy
Oct 3, 2024Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
How can we help at-risk animals?
Aug 25, 2026Redwood National and State Parks, California, United States
Jun 17, 2024Green-crowned brilliant hummingbird