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The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
Lightsabers gleam and droids beep; let"s all geek! Today"s image flashes out a filming location from the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, the island of Skellig Michael, off the coast of southwestern Ireland. This UNESCO World Heritage landmark houses a preserved monastery from the 6th century, founded by early monks. The site"s beehive huts and stone staircases were showcased as the backdrop of a cloistered island on planet Ahch-To, where Jedi Master Luke Skywalker sought refuge in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Skellig Michael"s abundant seabird population, including puffins, inspired the creation of the penguin-like porgs that roost on Ahch-To. So, grab your Wookiee co-pilot, hop in your starship and may the force be strong as you journey through this galactic Earth location not so far away!Desktop Version
Poinsettias
Poinsettias
During the holiday season, poinsettias are often seen adorning homes and festive displays, serving as symbols of goodwill and community spirit. Poinsettias can be found in nature from Mexico to Guatemala, and the ancestors of the modern, commercially available version have been traced to the Mexican state of Guerrero. The crimson-leaved plant was used by the Aztecs as a red dye and as a fever-reducing medicine. It is also referred to as "Flor de la Noche Buena" or the "Flower of the Holy Night" due to its resemblance to the Star of Bethlehem.Desktop Version
Large anvil clouds, Amazon, Brazil
Large anvil clouds, Amazon, Brazil
"When clouds appear like rocks and towers, the Earth"s refreshed with frequent showers"—there"s a whisper of truth to this old proverb for the storm clouds, also known as cumulonimbus or anvil clouds, captured in this celestial portrait. Originating from the Latin words "cumulus" meaning "heaped" and "nimbus" meaning "rainstorm," Cumulonimbus describes a towering cloud that develops vertically due to water vapour condensation, when the lower portion is propelled upward by strong uplifting air currents. These towering behemoths are not just sky-dwellers; they are the architects of thunderstorms and severe weather conditions. A wanderer in the sky, on their collapse, they undergo a transformative two-stage journey downstream. These celestial nomads boast lifetimes of six to twelve hours, while some lasting even longer.Desktop Version
Ynys Llanddwyn, Wales, United Kingdom
Ynys Llanddwyn, Wales, United Kingdom
Ynys Llanddwyn—or Llanddywn island—is a tiny, idyllic piece of land off the western coast of Anglesey in Wales, United Kingdom. It has a profound connection to St. Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers, which can be seen in the name of the island: Llanddwyn means "Church of Dwynwen." Legend has it that Dwynwen, a princess in the 5th century, sought solace on this island after a tragic love story. The young woman fell in love with a commoner, but because her royal father forbade the union—and after briefly turning her beloved into a block of ice—she moved to the island and set up a convent. She dedicated her life to spirituality, living as a hermit and helping others with matters of the heart. The remains of Dwynwen"s church, a well and the ruins of a convent are testaments to her legacy on Ynys Llanddwyn.Desktop Version
Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, Finland
Welcome to the Old Town in Helsinki—the capital and largest city of Finland. Often referred to as the "Daughter of the Baltic" or the "Pearl of the Baltic," this city sits gracefully at the tip of a peninsula, surrounded by 315 islands. Often regarded as Finland"s only metropolis, this region is the northernmost metropolitan area in the world with a population exceeding one million.Desktop Version
Medieval city walls, Ávila, Spain
Medieval city walls, Ávila, Spain
The stone structure in today"s image is part of the medieval city walls of Ávila in Spain. Within the picturesque confines of these Romanesque fortifications lies its cherished Old Town. It"s a place where cobbled streets wind their way past ancient structures, each whispering tales of bygone eras. In 1985, Ávila was included in UNESCO"s World Heritage List. The iconic walls that encircle the town were built by the Spanish to protect their territories from the Moors. Built between the 11th and 14th centuries, these fortifications have a perimeter of 2,516 metres, including 88 towers. When they were first built, they served to defend the city against attacks from outsiders; nowadays, visitors can walk around nearly half of the circumference of the walls, enjoying views of the city and the surrounding countryside.Desktop Version
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
The history of olive cultivation in one of the Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain, dates back over 2,000 years. The Phoenicians and Greeks, who were early settlers here, introduced the first olive trees to the island. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which adorns the north coast, is home to these olive groves. The olive groves expanded during the Islamic era, and olive oil became a crucial ingredient in Majorca"s gastronomy and culinary traditions.Desktop Version
The Shard, London, England
The Shard, London, England
London"s skyline has had its fair share of famous landmarks, but none quite like The Shard. Rising 310 metres above England"s capital, this glass-clad giant is not just the tallest building in the United Kingdom but also a symbol of modern London. It was designed by Renzo Piano, an Italian architect known for making a statement with high-tech, lightweight and functional designs. Inspired by church spires and ship masts, he envisioned a sleek, tapering structure that would reflect the changing sky. Construction began in 2009 and by 2012, it had officially claimed its title as Western Europe"s tallest skyscraper.Desktop Version
Fireworks over Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada
Fireworks over Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada
New Year"s Eve, also known as Old Year"s Day, is celebrated around the world with revelry, fireworks and for some, religious and cultural observances. Many countries celebrate with foods symbolic of prosperity, long life and good fortune for the coming year, and many people sing Scottish folk song "Auld Lang Syne" at the stroke of midnight to remember old friends and past experiences. The new year is often personified as a baby, a tradition that dates back to ancient Greeks, often paired with an old man who represents the previous year.Desktop Version
Tree frog on leaf
Tree frog on leaf
In some parts of the world, the arrival of spring is announced by the guttural chorus of tree frogs. As their name suggests, these frogs spend most of their lives in trees. They tend to be small and slender since their weight must be supported by branches and twigs in their habitats. They can be recognised by the sticky discs on the tips of their fingers and toes, which help them cling to surfaces. There are over 8,000 species of tree frogs, typically found in Central America, Europe and Australia. The American green tree frog is the official state amphibian of both Louisiana and Georgia. A fascinating fact about frogs is that they have three eyelids; the third helps them hide, hibernate and sleep.Desktop Version
Ria de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
Ria de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
Are you ready for a journey through time? Every spring, the people of Vigo dress in history, as their streets go back to 1809 to celebrate the Reconquest of Vigo, Spain. This event commemorates a milestone in history that marked a before and after in the city of olives, turning Vigo into the first European city to successfully expel the Napoleonic troops. Dressed in the attire of peasants and sailors, the villagers recreate this battle in honour of local history. The youngest ones also have their moment in the "Reconquistiña," where this period of history is revived in a playful and educational way.Desktop Version
Marshes of Bourges, France
Marshes of Bourges, France
At the heart of Bourges, France, you will find a natural treasure that enthrals visitors with its unique ecosystems and rich biodiversity: the Marshes of Bourges. Stretching over vast areas, these marshes include a diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, reed beds and shallow waters, and are home to numerous plant and animal species. But the area"s significance extends beyond its ecological importance, as it holds historical—the marshes served as a defence until the 17th century— and cultural relevance to the local communities that organise the annual Marshes Fair in September. Over the years, various efforts have been made to preserve and protect the delicate balance of this ecosystem, promoting sustainable practices and eco-tourism to raise awareness about its conservation.Desktop Version
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, which spans over 805 square kilometres. As summer bids farewell in the Northern Hemisphere, the park undergoes a transformation, unveiling its most enchanting chapter: the autumn season. The leaves put on their fanciest outfits—reds, oranges, and golds—creating an amazing show you won"t want to miss. The Skyline Drive, a 169-kilometre route, offers a front-row seat, with more than 75 overlooks. Did you know Shenandoah has more than 300 species of trees, vines and shrubs? The sugar maples, hickories and oaks are the rock stars of the colour-changing game. So, whether you"re an avid hiker, a nature photographer or simply seeking a tranquil escape, this park has it all.Desktop Version
Christmas lights at Mousehole harbour, Cornwall, England
Christmas lights at Mousehole harbour, Cornwall, England
As the last notes of Christmas carols still linger in the air, let"s visit the harbour of Mousehole, a fishing village in Cornwall, England, to keep the merriment going. Featured in today"s image, Mousehole harbour is known for its Christmas illuminations. The Mousehole lights were first lit in the early 1960s, thanks to local artist Joan Gillchrest. A few humble strings of lights soon turned into a full-blown spectacle, growing over the years to include iconic scenes, nautical motifs and Cornish themes. Today, the lights, switched on from December until early January, span the entire harbour, wrapping buildings, boats and even the water"s edge in a soft glow.Desktop Version
Ayna, Albacete, Spain
Ayna, Albacete, Spain
Snow might not be the first thing that pops into your mind when thinking about Spain, but thanks to its diverse landscapes from high peaks and warm beaches, Spain has it all. Featured in today"s image, the tiny village of Ayna—with a population of less than 1,000—lies in the steep valley carved by the river Mundo in the Sierra del Segura mountain range. Because of its snow-capped mountains during the winter months, the town is frequently called Manchegan Switzerland—with "Manchegan" referring to the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha that Ayna is a part of. About 242 kilometres south of the capital, Madrid, Ayna offers a unique glimpse into Spanish village life.Desktop Version
Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California, USA
Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California, USA
Unlike its Italian namesake, Venice in California, USA, is not known for canals and quaint cobblestone streets. It is, instead, a skateboarder"s paradise. Located next to the sun-kissed shores of Venice Beach, the Venice Skatepark stands as a testament to the rich history of skateboarding in the state.Desktop Version
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands, Australia
Sun, sand and sea come together to create the stunning sand beaches of the Whitsunday Islands, made up of 74 isles, located a little over 54 kilometres off the coast of Queensland, Australia. Visitors come here to enjoy activities like kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, camping and relaxing at exquisite resorts. It is surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, a national park, which ensures the protection of the islands, which were once home to the Ngaro people of Australia. This Aboriginal group is also known as the "Canoe People" due to their lifestyle that revolved around their marine environment. Today, the island"s primary visitors are travellers, divers, campers and adventure seekers.Desktop Version
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, USA
Carved by time, wind and water, Capitol Reef National Park 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 161-kilometre-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
Red fox father and kit, Washington, USA
Red fox father and kit, Washington, USA
There are dads, and then there are great dads, much like the foxy father seen in today"s image. Male red foxes are often referred to as tods or dogs, while their female counterparts are known as vixens. The younger generation is affectionately called cubs or kits. Female red foxes need to stay in their dens with their young after giving birth, so males spend their time going out to bring their 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. Whether prowling through urban settings or hunting in the wild, this creature continues to captivate and intrigue those who encounter it.Desktop Version
Joshua trees under the Milky Way, California, United States
Joshua trees under the Milky Way, California, United States
Today"s image features a desert icon—the Joshua tree—native to the Mojave Desert in the southwestern United States. This remarkable tree grows rapidly during its first ten years, averaging about 7 centimetres per year. After that, its growth slows down to around 4 centimetres per year and over its lifespan, it can reach up to 15 metres. Their long, messy and rough appearance resembles the look of a beard, adding to the tree"s unique and rugged charm.Desktop Version
La Rocque Harbour, Island of Jersey
La Rocque Harbour, Island of Jersey
Just off the coast of Normandy, France lies Jersey, a British island with a Norse name. Found on the southeastern shore of the island is La Rocque Harbour, home to a white, sandy beach and an elevated walkway that stretches out into the water. The shoreline"s granite and plutonic rocks, which originated more than 420 million years ago, showcase a variety of colours and textures. Visible from the harbour are the round, stubby Icho Tower and the taller Seymour Tower, built in the 18th and 19th centuries respectively as coastal defence structures. Both structures are over 550 metres away from the shore and can be reached on foot with a sturdy pair of shoes, but only on the days of the year where the tide is lowest.Desktop Version
Heidelberg on the river Neckar, Germany
Heidelberg on the river Neckar, Germany
If that"s not a postcard motif, what is? Here is a beautiful view of the city of Heidelberg, Germany, which sits majestically on the banks of the Neckar. The charming old town beckons with winding streets and historic buildings, while Heidelberg Castle rises high above the city and offers a breathtaking panorama. The Neckar, a tranquil river, winds through the city and offers scenic views from the waterfront promenades and bridges. The Neckar meadow invites you to linger and offers an idyllic retreat for walks and picnics.Desktop Version
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, USA
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California, USA
The first day of spring may be just days away, but the season"s wildflowers at California"s largest state park—Anza-Borrego Desert State Park—are already here to say hello! Every spring, this barren desert floor undergoes a dramatic makeover. Flowers like heliotrope, brittlebush and desert dandelion burst into a riot of bloom, creating a spectacle of colour. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, this park has a lot to offer—from the mountains of the Peninsular Ranges and cactus-studded hills to slot canyons, badlands and natural palm oases. In addition, as a designated International Dark Sky Park, it is an exceptional spot for stargazing. Beyond its natural wonders, the park, spanning over 242,810 hectares, is also home to a rich cultural and historical legacy, such as ancient pictographs or rock paintings.Desktop Version
Walruses in Svalbard, Norway
Walruses in Svalbard, Norway
Walruses are magnificent marine mammals that inhabit the cold Arctic seas. These impressive creatures, scientifically known as Odobenus rosmarus, are known for their huge size, with adult males weighing up to 1,500 kilograms and measuring about 3.6 metres in length. Their distinctive tusks, which are elongated canine teeth, can reach lengths of up to 1 metre and are utilised for various tasks such as aiding in hauling themselves onto floating ice, puncturing breathing holes in the ice and self-defence. These social animals often gather in large groups, a behaviour known as "haulouts," where they rest, socialise and nurse their young. Conservation efforts are crucial for walrus populations, as they are threatened by climate change and habitat loss due to diminishing Arctic ice.Desktop Version
Boreal owl
Boreal owl
In North America"s coniferous forests lives a tiny bird of prey—the boreal owl. The small, brown and white flecked raptor is shy and evasive around humans, keeping it well hidden from our view. Despite its compact size, it is a formidable hunter, feeding on small mammals, voles and birds. With dark plumage and expressive eyes, it strikes a captivating figure in the moonlit canopy, intriguing bird enthusiasts and researchers. Any birder would be fortunate to spot one during their visit to Saskatchewan, Canada.Desktop Version