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Dec 13, 2024Christmas market, St. Stephens Basilica, Budapest, Hungary

St. Stephen"s Basilica is the dazzling centrepiece of one of Budapest"s iconic Christmas markets. The fair buzzes with holiday spirit, offering a mix of Hungarian craft, festive décor and local delicacies, capturing the essence of a traditional Christmas. The Advent Feast—an event held in the weeks leading up to Christmas and part of Hungary"s holiday traditions—invites guests to savour dishes like chimney cakes, stuffed cabbage and goulash soup, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air.Desktop Version

Dec 12, 2024Poinsettia

Here"s the red poinsettia, one of the plants from the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. With its striking star-shaped leaves, the poinsettia has become a symbol of Christmas cheer, brightening homes and public spaces during winter. The history of the poinsettia can be traced back to ancient civilisations. The Aztecs, who called it cuetlaxóchitl, used it to make a reddish-purple dye and to treat fevers. But the plant"s association with Christmas has roots in Mexican tradition, where it"s known as "la flor de Nochebuena" or "Holy Night flower." According to legend, a young girl, unable to afford a gift for Baby Jesus, was inspired to offer humble weeds, which miraculously transformed into the vibrant poinsettias we know today.Desktop Version

Dec 11, 2024International Mountain Day

Today, we celebrate International Mountain Day, an event to honour the towering giants of our planet. Among them are the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, or the "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," seen on the right in today"s image. A part of the Sexten Dolomites in northeastern Italy, they"re one of the most famous mountain groups in the Alps. These three peaks—Cima Grande, Cima Ovest and Cima Piccola—are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike. Much like these, India"s northern region is home to awe-inspiring mountain ranges like the Himalayas and Karakoram. In these mountains you"ll find some of the tallest peaks on the planet, including Mount Kangchenjunga, which holds the title of the world"s third-highest peak.Desktop Version

Dec 10, 2024Lands End, Cornwall, England

Windswept cliffs, rugged beauty and dramatic ocean views—welcome to Land"s End in Cornwall, England. Since ancient Greek times, when it was known as "Belerion" or "Place of the Sun" or in Arthurian legends about the lost land of Lyonesse, Land"s End has always been a place of fascination. Land"s End is the most south-westerly point on mainland Britain. It is most famous for being the starting point or end of charity races which run the length of the island of Great Britain from Land"s End to John O"Groats - at Britain"s north-easterly tip.Desktop Version

Dec 9, 2024Two Guanacos, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Featured in today"s image are guanacos in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile. They are a fascinating camelid native to South America, and they"re the wild cousin of the llama! Unlike llamas, guanacos sport a more uniform coat colour, usually a warm light brown to dark cinnamon, with a white underside, a grey face and small, straight ears. They can live up to 28 years in the wild, making them some of the longest-living land mammals of their size in South America. Guanacos are one of the continent"s largest land animals today, sharing their megafauna status with South American giants like tapirs, marsh deer and jaguars. Guanacos munch on grasses, shrubs and even cacti, using a fascinating digestive process like, but distinct from, ruminants.Desktop Version

Dec 8, 2024Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

In the heart of Paris stands one of the city"s most enduring icons: Notre-Dame Cathedral. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries on the Île de la Cité—an island in the Seine—Notre-Dame has witnessed centuries of French history, from the Hundred Years" War to the French Revolution, and beyond. Although it was chosen by Napoleon as the site of his coronation as emperor in 1804, by the early 19th century, the cathedral was in a state of disrepair. However, one novel changed its fortunes: "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" by Victor Hugo. The popularity of this book helped encourage a restoration project that renewed the cathedral"s former beauty.Desktop Version

Dec 7, 2024Orchha Fort complex, Orchha, Madhya Pradesh

Welcome to the Orchha Fort complex in the town of Orchha in Madhya Pradesh. The construction of this complex was started by the Bundela Rajputs, including King Rudra Pratap Singh, the founder of the Orchha State, and later expanded by his successors. It features lush gardens and pavilions and structures like Raja Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Jahangir Mahal—seen in today"s image. The Jahangir Mahal was crafted in 1605 by Bir Singh Deo, specifically to impress the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who stayed as the Maharaja"s guest for just one night.Desktop Version

Dec 6, 2024Finnish Independence Day

Happy Independence Day, Finland! On this day in 1917, the Nordic nation declared its independence from Russia. Finland had been a grand duchy of the Russian Empire since 1809, and it was part of the Swedish Empire for the previous 600 years. However, during the Russian revolutions of 1917, Finnish nationalists saw their chance to establish an independent nation. After several months of negotiations, Finland declared independence on December 6.Desktop Version

Dec 5, 2024Tufa formation on Mono Lake, California, United States

Shaped by the slow passage of time, tufa—a type of porous limestone—emerges as one of nature"s most spectacular formations. While these towers can be found in many places, today"s image showcases them at Mono Lake in Mono County, California, United States. These structures develop when calcium-rich fresh water, flowing into the lake from several creeks and streams, mixes with the lake"s alkaline water. Over centuries, this interaction caused calcium carbonate to build up, forming tufa spires above the lake"s surface. To preserve the tufa towers, the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve was established in 1981 by the California State Legislature.Desktop Version

Dec 4, 2024Navy Day

With waves of pride and sails of courage, India celebrates Navy Day today. Initially, the occasion aligned with Trafalgar Day, marking the United Kingdom"s Royal Navy"s historic victory in the Battle of Trafalgar. The Royal Indian Navy first celebrated Navy Day on 21 October, 1944, aiming to raise public awareness and showcase the Navy"s contributions. Today, however, the country observes Navy Day on 4 December in honour of Operation Trident, a pivotal mission in which the Indian Navy launched a powerful strike, sinking four Pakistani vessels, including the PNS Khaibar, and secured a crucial victory over the Pakistan Navy.Desktop Version

Dec 3, 2024Amber Fort, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Walk through the streets of Jaipur district in the state of Rajasthan, and you"ll be greeted by grand palaces and towering forts that shape the region"s landscape. One of the most prominent among them is Amber Fort, which is perched on a small hill about 11 kilometres from the main city of Jaipur. Within the regal walls of this fort lies the Sattais Katcheri, which means the "court of 27 pillars," featured in today"s image. Amber Fort was built in 1592, and it served as the residence of the Maharajas, or rulers, of the area. Famous for its unique blend of Hindu, Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, it is constructed from pale yellow and pink sandstone alongside white marble.Desktop Version

Dec 2, 2024Moose, Denali National Park, Alaska, United States

Have you ever experienced the awe of seeing an Alaskan moose? The largest moose species, these creatures can weigh between 300 and 700 kilograms, reaching heights of over 1 metre at the shoulder. Male moose are called bulls, females are known as cows and their young are referred to as calves. One thing that really sets moose apart is their incredible antlers, which are only sported by the males.Desktop Version

Dec 1, 2024Antarctica Day

Today, Antarctica Day shines a spotlight on one of the world"s most remarkable international agreements—the Antarctic Treaty. Signed in 1959 by 12 nations, this treaty designated the entire continent as a demilitarised zone, with a special focus on promoting scientific research and collaboration. This day honours the spirit of global cooperation, reminding us of the collective responsibility to protect the planet"s last great wilderness.Desktop Version

Nov 30, 2024Male white rhinoceroses, Lake Nakuru, Kenya

Today"s image features white rhinoceros in Lake Nakuru, Kenya. Their journey illustrates the importance of conservation efforts. They have two subspecies: the near-threatened southern white rhinoceros and the critically endangered northern white rhinoceros. In the late 19th century, the southern white rhino, found in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya, was on the brink of extinction due to relentless poaching for their horns. But thanks to more than a century of dedicated management, their numbers have bounced back significantly. Unfortunately, the northern white rhino is in a precarious situation, with only two left—a mother and daughter. They"re now under protection at Kenya"s Ol Pejeta Conservancy.Desktop Version

Nov 29, 2024Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, France

A tidal marvel and a slice of medieval life all rolled into one rocky outcrop—welcome to Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy, northern France. The story of this "Wonder of the West" goes back to the early 8th century, when Archangel Michael was said to have appeared to the bishop of Avranches in a vision. The divine message was clear: build a sanctuary on this rock. Taking this angelic advice seriously, the bishop laid the foundations of what would eventually become the abbey that dominates the island today. Over the centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site grew in size and reputation, attracting monks, pilgrims and invaders alike.Desktop Version

Nov 28, 2024Murudeshwara Temple, Murdeshwar, Karnataka

Welcome to the coastal town of Murdeshwar in Karnataka"s North Canara district, right along the Laccadive Sea. The town"s star attraction is the magnificent Murudeshwara temple, perched atop Kanduka Hill, seen in today"s image. Built in 2008, this temple is constructed in the classic Dravidian architectural style and features Chalukya and Kadamba sculptures. It houses a lift that gives visitors a breathtaking view of the towering 37-metre Shiva statue, which is the third tallest in the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the primary deity here, Sri Mridesa Linga, also known as Murudeshwara, is believed to be a fragment of the original Atma Linga. It rests about 60 centimetres below the ground. Flanked by two life-sized concrete elephants, the temple complex, including the impressive 20-storey, over 60-metre-tall Raja Gopura, is among the tallest in the region—truly a sight to behold!Desktop Version

Nov 27, 2024Tombeau du Géant in Bouillon, Belgium

Tombeau du Géant in Bouillon, Belgium, offers a picturesque panorama for those who make the journey to see it. The Giant"s Tomb, as the hill is known in English, resembles a giant resting in the crook of the over 200-kilometre-long Semois River. The name originates from a local legend about a Gallic giant, Treviso, who chose to leap off the cliffs of Rocher des Gattes rather than be captured by Roman soldiers. This vantage point, popular among hikers and road-trippers, provides a view that shifts dramatically with the seasons. During autumn, the landscape dons warm colours, as seen in today"s image, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.Desktop Version

Nov 25, 2024Maasai giraffes in Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Maasai giraffes roam the vast landscapes of Amboseli National Park in Kenya, as seen in today"s image. At around 5 metres or more, giraffes are the world"s tallest land mammals. Along with prehensile tongues that are more than a foot and a half long, they use their impressive height to eat foliage found almost 6 metres from the ground. They"re also faster than you might think, being able to sprint over short distances up to 60 kilometres per hour. Giraffes are common in east Africa and can be seen grazing in grasslands, woodlands and reserves.Desktop Version

Nov 23, 2024Fibonacci Day

On Fibonacci Day, mathematicians and scientists honour one of their own: Leonardo Bonacci. More commonly known as Fibonacci, the medieval mathematician is notable for popularising the Hindu-Arabic numeral system, with its use of zero, decimal points and 10 numbers instead of the ponderous Roman numeral system. He"s most famous, however, for his sequence of numbers: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8... By adding the first two numbers, you arrive at the third, and adding the previous two numbers, you arrive at the next number and so on. Disregarding the zero, the first four numbers correspond to today"s date, 11/23.Desktop Version

Nov 21, 2024Lion cubs, South Africa

Curious about what it"s like to be a lion cub living in the wild? Let"s explore their life. Featured here is a pair of African lion cubs sunbathing in the wilderness of South Africa. Typically born in litters of one to four, they are tucked away in a secluded den for safety. Blind at birth, these little ones are vulnerable in the first few weeks of their lives and depend entirely on their mothers. At around eight weeks old, they meet the rest of the pride. This isn"t just a casual interaction—it"s an important moment for them to socialise and find their place in the group. During this time, they learn how to behave within the pride, which helps shape their roles as they grow up. After they hit six months, they begin to accompany adults on hunting trips, learning essential skills and tricks of the trade through real-life adventures.Desktop Version

Nov 20, 2024Olive grove, Valle dItria, Puglia, Italy

Today, we"re not just offering you an olive branch—we"ve got the whole tree. Olive trees were first cultivated in the eastern Mediterranean around 8,000 years ago. From there, they were spread to the Greek islands and mainland by the Phoenicians, then further afield, reaching Spain and the western edge of the Mediterranean by around 1000 BCE. The olive branch has been a symbol of peace since ancient times, and olive trees have been grown for their oil, wood and fruit for millennia. The southern region of Puglia in Italy, seen here, has an estimated 60 million olive trees and produces about 40% of the country"s olive oil. The region has been producing olives for centuries. The oldest olive tree in Puglia, and one of the oldest in Italy, is thought to be almost 4,000 years old.Desktop Version

Nov 19, 2024Tasmans Arch, Tasman National Park, Tasmania, Australia

Ready for a coastal adventure? Welcome to Tasman National Park in Tasmania, an island state of Australia about 240 kilometres off the mainland"s southeastern coast. Spanning more than 100 square kilometres, this park covers sections of both the Forestier and Tasman peninsulas, including all of Tasman Island. This park is home to several unique flowering plants, as well as Australian fur seals and little penguins. Dramatic cliffs and distinctive columns of dolerite are a key feature of this area. The Tasmans Arch in today"s image is a standout example. Shaped over time by the Tasman Sea, it was once the roof of a massive sea cave. The sea"s pressure, combined with air, sand and stones, slowly pried open the vertical cracks in the cliff, dislodging chunks of rock.Desktop Version

Nov 18, 2024Porthcawl lighthouse, Wales, United Kingdom

With waves crashing against its sturdy base and a stormy sea swirling around, this lighthouse in Porthcawl, Wales, has been standing resilient since 1860. At 9 metres tall, Porthcawl lighthouse, designed by the eminent engineer James Walker, is often pictured being battered by waves when storms hit this coast. The town"s rugged coastline, with its hidden rocky coves, has always posed a perilous challenge to sailors. Porthcawl lighthouse was built to help guide the increasing maritime traffic along the Bristol Channel. This cast-iron lighthouse was the last one in the United Kingdom to be powered by coal and gas. Although it was converted to electric power in 1997, the lighthouse still maintains its historical charm.Desktop Version

Nov 17, 2024Red deer stag in Glen Affric, Scotland

Striking appearance, strong presence and impressive antlers—meet the red deer, photographed in the ancient forests of Glen Affric, one of Scotland"s most beautiful valleys. Found across Europe, Asia and parts of North Africa, this species is Britain"s largest land mammal and an integral part of the Caledonian pinewoods. From featuring in cave art found throughout Europe to medieval hunting traditions, red deer have always held a special place in the human imagination. In many parts of the world, their image is synonymous with the wild, free spirit of nature. Glen Affric, with its lochs, moorlands and mountains, provides the perfect habitat for these magnificent creatures. The area is a national nature reserve, making it a haven for hikers, climbers and nature enthusiasts.Desktop Version

Nov 16, 2024Wadden Sea coast, Friesland, Netherlands

If you"ve ever dreamed of walking on water or something close to it, the Wadden Sea is the place for you. Tracing over 480 kilometres along the coast of the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique landscape of tidal flats and wetlands. In fact, it is the world"s largest unbroken intertidal zone—the area that is underwater at high tide and exposed at low tide—of sand and mud flats. The area is also a playground for aquatic species such as houting, brown trout and white-beaked dolphins, and it"s a home or resting spot for species of birds like waders and herons. Pictured here is the Wadden Sea coast in Friesland, Netherlands, dotted with charming fishing villages and medieval churches. Mudflat hiking is a recreational pastime here—the Dutch call it wadlopen—and the Wadden Sea is a popular destination.Desktop Version

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