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Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
In Iceland"s Skaftafell, autumn isn"t just a season—it"s an experience. From glaciers to waterfalls, like the one featured here today, to northern lights, this area in Vatnajökull National Park is a showcase of nature"s raw beauty. Skaftafell, once a thriving farm and now a preservation area, has been formed over thousands of years by the fierce interplay of volcanic fire and glacial water. Here, the glacier Skaftafellsjökull, a branch of Vatnajökull—the second largest ice cap in Europe—stretches out like a frozen river, inviting visitors for guided hikes. Then there"s Svartifoss, another waterfall in the park, fed by glacial meltwater. Surrounded by dark lava columns that resemble a heart from afar, this waterfall inspired the design of Iceland"s National Theatre and the Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavík. Skaftafell"s hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, so there"s something for everyone. While the daylight hours may be shorter in this season, there"s a brightDesktop 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
Kirkilai lakes, Biržai Regional Park, Lithuania
Kirkilai lakes, Biržai Regional Park, Lithuania
Nestled within the pristine expanse of Biržai Regional Park in Lithuania, the Kirkilai Observation Tower stands as an example of allure and creativity in modern architecture. Rising nearly 32 metres above the lush landscapes, it offers an unrivalled vantage point to behold the beauty of the Kirkilai karst lakes. The natural wonder is formed by the dissolution of water-soluble rocks such as gypsum and limestone. Over time, the gradual erosion and collapse of caves in these rocks created depressions filled with crystal-clear water, resulting in these mesmerising and unique bodies of water. The interconnected lakes mirror the surrounding greenery, creating a scenic haven for nature enthusiasts.Desktop Version
Tasmans Arch, Tasman National Park, Tasmania, Australia
Tasmans Arch, Tasman National Park, Tasmania, Australia
Ready for a coastal adventure? Welcome to Tasman National Park in Tasmania, an island state of Australia about 150 miles off the mainland"s southeastern coast. Spanning more than 41 square miles, this park covers sections of both the Forestier and Tasman peninsulas, including all of the 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
Rio Negro
Rio Negro
The Rio Negro, originating in Colombia, is one of dozens of tributaries that flow into the massive Amazon River. Its name, which means black river, comes from its dark appearance when viewed from a distance. As a result, the water can reflect the colourful hues of the sky overhead, such as the vibrant blue and partial rainbow seen here. The colour of the river comes from the high concentration of humic acid, thanks to decomposing organic matter that seeps from nearby swamps. As one of the largest northern-bank tributaries of the Amazon River, the Rio Negro plays a crucial role in the complex Amazon basin ecosystem. The river is home to many plants and animals, including the critically endangered Brazilian barefaced tamarin, the giant river otter, and nearly 700 species of fish.Desktop Version
San Gimignano, Siena, Italy
San Gimignano, Siena, Italy
These medieval towers stand tall over San Gimignano, a small town near Siena in north central Italy. In the Middle Ages, a town grew up around a church dedicated to Saint Geminianus—San Gimignano in Italian. As well as being a popular stop for pilgrims on their way to Rome, the town prospered thanks to its trade in local Vernaccia wine and in saffron, which is grown in the nearby hills. However, when the Black Death struck in 1348, half the population was lost, slowing the town"s development and preserving its medieval character to this day.Desktop Version
Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
The United States has 429 national parks, but if you"re looking for a blend of rugged beauty, thrilling adventures and serene landscapes, Glacier National Park in Montana is the place to be. Established in 1910, this national park has more than 700 lakes, two mountain ranges and vast forests teeming with life, which earned it the moniker "Crown of the Continent." With its 25 glaciers, it"s a vital study ground for scientists who monitor climate change. Spread across approximately 1,013,000 acres (409,946 hectares), this park protects animals such as grizzly bears, moose, elks and mountain goats. Glacier National Park also houses the Going-to-the-Sun Road, more than 700 miles of trails and the awe-inspiring vistas of Swiftcurrent Lake, seen in today"s image.Desktop Version
Porto Flavia, Sulcis-Iglesiente, Sardinia, Italy
Porto Flavia, Sulcis-Iglesiente, Sardinia, Italy
Most ports rely on docks and cranes that extend into the shoreline. Porto Flavia in the Sulcis-Iglesiente region, however, took a completely different approach. This engineering marvel transformed a cliff into a gateway for Sardinia"s ore industry. Mining in Sulcis-Iglesiente has a history dating back thousands of years, from the Phoenicians and Romans to the industrial boom in the 20th century. Lead, zinc, coal, sulphur, barium and silver were extracted from these rugged hills but transporting them was a logistical nightmare. Ore had to be hauled by cart, loaded onto small boats and then transferred to larger ships—a slow, costly and inefficient process.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 13,000 miles and dating back thousands of years, the ancient marvel in today"s picture is a series of fortifications spanning rugged mountains, valleys and deserts. Featuring steep trenches and watchtowers, parts of it were designed to keep invaders at bay. Hiking this UNESCO World Heritage Site 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
Königstein Fortress, Saxon Switzerland, Germany
Königstein Fortress, Saxon Switzerland, Germany
Königstein Fortress, one of the largest mountain fortresses in Europe, rises high in the Elbe Sandstone Mountains of Saxon Switzerland. The "Burgrave Gebhard vom Stein" is first mentioned in a document of King Wenceslas I of Bohemia in 1233, presumably referring to Königstein. At that time the area belonged to the Kingdom of Bohemia. In the 16th century, the castle underwent significant expansion to become a Saxon state fortress, with the start of construction of the imposing 152.5-metre-deep castle well between 1566 and 1569 being an important milestone. It is still one of the deepest historic wells in Germany.Desktop Version
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Carved by time, wind and water, Capitol Reef National Park in the US state of Utah 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 100-mile-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
Happy Fathers Day!
Happy Fathers Day!
Today"s all about the dads. Father"s Day is the perfect time to celebrate everything they do for us, how they look after us, help us grow up and tell the best dad jokes. There are also great dads in the animal kingdom, like the foxy father seen in today"s image. Female red foxes need to stay in their dens with their young after giving birth, so males spend their time going out to bring her food. When the pups are a little older, their father takes time to play with them, teaching them survival skills they"ll need in later life, like hunting and scavenging. The foxes seen here are melanistic, a condition in animals that results in darker colouring.Desktop Version
SantaPark, Lapland, Finland
SantaPark, Lapland, Finland
Amid the snowy landscapes of Lapland, Rovaniemi is a captivating winter wonderland that claims to be the official hometown of Santa Claus. This vibrant city in northern Finland is not only a gateway to the Arctic Circle but also a destination where reality and folklore blend seamlessly. Visitors can watch the beautiful Northern Lights, explore the Arctic wilderness, and experience the magic of Christmas at SantaPark, pictured in today"s image. The park offers a wide range of activities, including elf workshops where skilled artisans craft timeless treasures and fun train rides through the park. Rovaniemi is also the capital city of Lapland and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Finland.Desktop Version
Macaroni penguins
Macaroni penguins
Let"s flap our flippers and take a dive into the world of 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
Traditional red fishermens cabins, Reine, Norway
Traditional red fishermens cabins, Reine, Norway
Step aside, regular beach houses—Reine"s little red cabins are here to steal the show. One of the prettiest places in the Lofoten Islands of Norway, Reine is a fishing village with a population of around 300. A trading post since 1775, it has evolved from a commercial hub to become a sought-after tourist destination. The village"s waterfront is lined with the traditional fishermen"s cabins called rorbu or rorbuer, which are mostly red in colour, as seen in today"s image. Once important to fishermen, these cabins have now become a popular pick for tourist rentals. In 1999, German painter Ingo Kühl set up a pop-up studio in a rorbu in Reine, where he painted scenes of the harbour framed by the towering mountain range. This village truly shines in winter, when you have the chance to see the northern lights twinkling in the night sky.Desktop Version
Paralympic Games begin in Paris
Paralympic Games begin in Paris
The Summer Paralympic Games get underway in Paris today. More than 4,000 athletes from all around the world will meet in the French capital to compete in 22 sports across 549 different events. Delegations from 184 nations will parade down the iconic Champs-Élysées to the Place de la Concorde rather than entering a stadium. The first official Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960. Twenty-three nations took part, competing in eight sports, including wheelchair basketball and para-athletics.Desktop Version
Great North Run
Great North Run
Today, the streets of Newcastle will transform into a sea of runners, joggers and walkers all headed in one direction—south. The Great North Run, the world"s largest half marathon, is back. Founded in 1981 by former Olympic 10,000-metre bronze medallist Brendan Foster, this annual event started with humble beginnings. Just over 12,000 runners took part in the inaugural race, but it quickly grew into a phenomenon. Today, the race attracts around 60,000 participants each year, from elite athletes to charity fundraisers dressed as giant bananas.Desktop Version
World Migratory Bird Day
World Migratory Bird Day
Celebrate our travelling feathered friends on World Migratory Bird Day! Some migrations are truly astounding. The bar-tailed godwit embarks on a 6,835-mile nonstop flight across the Pacific from Alaska to New Zealand. The tiny ruby-throated hummingbird, weighing less than a penny, and makes the trip all the way across the Gulf of Mexico—a seemingly impossible feat for its size. Migratory birds navigate the globe, instinctively knowing when and where to move to exploit seasonal abundance. The Arctic tern outshines them all with its intercontinental journey from pole to pole, covering more than 18,000 miles. Their migration routes are passages created based on environmental cues.Desktop Version
Mothering Sunday
Mothering Sunday
For one Sunday in March, the United Kingdom, Ireland and some Commonwealth countries take a break from the usual hustle to honour mums with flowers, cards and the occasional burnt toast in bed. Mothering Sunday isn"t just Britain"s version of Mother"s Day—it has a history that predates the modern celebration by centuries. In medieval England, it was a religious occasion when people returned to their "mother church"—the main church or cathedral in their area. This pilgrimage often led to family reunions, giving servants a rare day off to visit home. Naturally, a visit to mum was part of the tradition, and over time, the religious aspect blended with a more personal celebration.Desktop Version
Flooded crypt, Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna, Italy
Flooded crypt, Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna, Italy
In the Italian province of Ravenna lies the Basilica of San Francesco, recognised for its beauty and historical significance. This Romanesque church, originally built in 450 CE, features a sturdy square bell tower added in the 9th century, enhancing the basilica"s exterior. Its design features three naves, divided by two rows of 12 columns each. Featured in today"s image is the basilica"s real showstopper: the basement crypt, or a burial chamber, is a stunning model of early religious design. Complete with vaulted ceilings that slope down into rows of stone columns, its floor is a work of art itself. It"s inlaid with beautifully intricate mosaic tiles that have withstood the test of time.Desktop Version
Green Friday
Green Friday
Imagine spending the day hiking in a forest, soaking in the lush greenery instead of frantically checking every item off your holiday shopping list. Welcome to Green Friday, the environmental alternative to Black Friday, established in 2015. On Green Friday, people are encouraged to approach shopping by making ethical choices, embracing nature, or refraining from purchasing altogether. So, take a pause for a moment and plunge yourself into nature this Green Friday!Desktop Version
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter! Do you like your eggs boiled or painted? The practice of painting chicken eggs, which originates from Persian traditions, was adopted by Christians in the early 17th century to commemorate this holiday, also called Pascha. Hungarian artist, Tünde Csuhaj—living and working in the small city of southern Hungary, Szekszárd—has mastered the craft. The internationally recognised egg-painter developed her own etching technique to create lace-like patterns. The meticulous designs appear on all sorts of eggs, including chicken, goose, swan and even emu or ostrich eggs. The intricate motifs of incredible craftsmanship are often shown at national and international fairs and exhibitions. Are you inspired? Grab a paintbrush and test your egg-painting skills.Desktop Version
Castle Stalker, Argyll, Scotland
Castle Stalker, Argyll, Scotland
Perched dramatically on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, Argyll, Castle Stalker is one of Scotland"s most picturesque and well-preserved medieval tower houses. Built around the 1440s by the Stewarts of Appin, its history includes royal visits and even a drunken wager that briefly transferred ownership to Clan Campbell. Despite falling into disrepair by the 19th century, it was lovingly restored in the mid-20th century and is still privately owned today. Visitors can explore this historic site on selected guided tours during the summer.Desktop Version
Kirkjufell, Iceland
Kirkjufell, Iceland
From glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes and black sand beaches, Iceland"s Snæfellsnes Peninsula has "GoT" it all. Standing here proudly is the 463-metre-high Kirkjufell. The lofty hill is often referred to as "Church Mountain" due to its distinctive shape resembling a church steeple. You might recognise it from the "Game of Thrones" series where it featured in a scene set north of the colossal ice wall. Because of its pyramid shape, colours that shift with the seasons, and coastal location, this nunatak—a rock formation that protrudes through an ice sheet or glacier—is a frequent subject for photographers. If you"re lucky, and the weather conditions align, Kirkjufell also offers a magnificent view of the northern lights.Desktop Version
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
This densely layered image is not an error of your screen, but the fascinating tiers of fossil beds in Badlands National Park in South Dakota, USA. Under the multicoloured coating lies the land"s history, conserving the remains of ancient horses, camels, tigers and rhinos. The barren landscape, decorated with pinnacles and prairies, was mainly formed by two contrary forces of nature: deposition (the process of small rocks being moved around and deposited in new places) and erosion (the process of rocks wearing away). The Red Shirt Table, at 1,020 metres, is the highest point on the rugged terrain. The park covers a 379-square-mile territory that was established as a national park on this day in 1978. Still thirsty for knowledge? Visit the national park"s museum collection. There are over 360,000 artefacts that have a lot more to reveal!Desktop Version