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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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Peggys Cove Lighthouse, Canada
Peggys Cove Lighthouse, Canada
Perched on a rugged granite outcropping, Peggys Point Lighthouse is a stoic guardian of Nova Scotia"s coast. Built in 1914, the 15-metre-tall lighthouse embodies the enduring spirit of maritime Canada. Its beacon was first turned on in 1915. The current lighthouse replaced a wooden structure made in 1868. The original wooden lighthouse became the lighthouse keeper"s house until it was damaged by Hurricane Edna in 1954, when it was removed. The ground floor of the current lighthouse served as a post office during the summer months until 2009, when Canada Post shut down the service, citing mould growth as a hazard. The lighthouse, now automated, attracts visitors eager to glimpse into Canada"s seafaring past and feel the ocean"s spray.Desktop Version
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Why visit one lake when you can visit 16? Croatia"s Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the largest and oldest in the country, provides that exact opportunity thanks to a unique geological feature. The slopes of the Mala Kapela, Medveđak and Plješevica mountains funnel water into the Plitvice plateau. This water carries precipitated limestone, which gradually accumulates and hardens over time, creating a series of rock barriers called tufa. These barriers form pools, with thin, lacy waterfalls leading from one "lake" to another. This majestic display of geology and hydrology draws over a million visitors to the paths and boardwalks that wind through the lakes—they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all. Even in the winter, the lakes retain their beauty, with once-roaring waterfalls frozen in place.Desktop Version
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
Ad-Deir, Petra, Jordan
Ad-Deir, Petra, Jordan
Carved into rose-red cliffs, Petra and its crown jewel, Ad-Deir, or "The Monastery," feel like stepping into a real-life Indiana Jones adventure. Tucked in the heart of Jordan"s arid desert landscapes, this ancient city once thrived as the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in the 2nd century BCE. It was also a hub of the spice trade, connecting distant regions like China, Egypt, Greece and India. The city was abandoned for around 500 years before being rediscovered in 1812, earning it the "Lost City" moniker.Desktop Version
Telašćica Nature Park, Dugi Otok, Croatia
Telašćica Nature Park, Dugi Otok, Croatia
Welcome to the slice of paradise that is Telašćica Nature Park on the southeastern shores of Dugi Otok Island in Croatia. Telašćica Bay, on the country"s Adriatic coast, is encircled by 13 islands and six islets. Featured in today"s image are the bay"s cliffs. They form a stunning inlet that stretches over 6 miles with dramatic cliffs, islets and serene bays. Locally known as the "stene," these cliffs reach a height of 161 metres above sea level. Other features include the Adriatic"s safest and most expansive natural harbour, which has 25 secluded beaches, as well as the therapeutic Mir salt lake known for its healing properties. So, the next time you"re in the mood for island-hopping, come to Telašćica, where the land and sea play an endless game of tag.Desktop Version
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
Bamburgh Castle perches over a black crag of volcanic rock in Northumberland, England. The castle area and the nearby beaches are covered by the region"s distinct sand landforms, the Bamburgh Dunes, seen in the foreground of today"s image. The fortress, once a strategic Anglo-Saxon stronghold, evolved over centuries into the imposing structure seen today. The castle played a pivotal role in defending against the Viking invasion in 993. However, the Norsemen destroyed the original fortification, after which significant enhancements were made during the medieval period. The castle also served as the seat of the ancient Northumbrian kingdom—a medieval Anglo-Saxon kingdom, in present-day Northern England and south-east Scotland. After surviving its share of invasions and attacks, Bamburgh Castle has made its way to the limelight due to its impressive silhouette against the North Sea, having been featured in productions like "Macbeth," "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," and "Ivanhoe."Desktop Version
Abraham Lake, Alberta, Canada
Abraham Lake, Alberta, Canada
Ever heard of frozen bubbles? Abraham Lake in Alberta, Canada, has them during the winter, and they"re not just beautiful—they"re science in action. Created in 1972, Abraham Lake is a man-made reservoir that spans more than 20 square miles along the North Saskatchewan River. Thanks to glacier-fed waters from the Rocky Mountains, the lake stays transparent even in the coldest months. The glacial meltwater carries fine sediment that scatters sunlight, while natural filtration through rocks keeps pollutants to a minimum.Desktop Version
Death Valley National Park, California, USA
Death Valley National Park, California, USA
Stretching for miles below the desert sun, the salt flats of Badwater Basin shine in Death Valley National Park, California. This sweltering spot is the lowest point of elevation of North America, 282 feet below sea level. In this otherworldly landscape, the hardened, mineral surface glistens like a mirror as the scorching heat dances upon it, creating rippling waves in the air. Composed of sodium chloride, borax and other minerals, the flats" brittle crust conceals a treacherous mud layer beneath. For those who venture beyond the flats and up a mountainside, Dante"s View reveals a panoramic view of Badwater Basin from a height of nearly 515 feet. With its surreal landscapes, Death Valley National Park offers a truly unique experience where an odd beauty thrives despite the harshest of conditions.Desktop Version
Remembrance Sunday
Remembrance Sunday
Every November, Remembrance Sunday offers a chance to hit the pause button and think about those who gave everything during times of conflict. Held on the second Sunday of November, this day coincides with Armistice Day and is dedicated to honouring the armed forces and civilians who sacrificed their lives in World War I, World War II and subsequent conflicts. At 11 a.m. on the day, a two-minute silence is observed. This moment serves as a national pause to reflect and remember. The end of the silence is signalled by playing "The Rouse," a poignant bugle call.Desktop Version
Totally Thames Festival, London
Totally Thames Festival, London
Welcome to the Totally Thames Festival in London, England. Each year, it brings together communities, artists and nature enthusiasts in a month-long tribute to the river. Highlights for 2024 include the annual boat marathon, Great River Race and the Clean Thames Challenge.Desktop Version