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Castillo de La Calahorra, Granada, Spain
Castillo de La Calahorra, Granada, Spain
In the region of Guadix, between mountains and valleys, stands La Calahorra, a small town with a monumental treasure, its imposing Renaissance castle. This architectural gem, built in the 16th century by the first Marquis of Zenete, combines military strength with the elegance of Italian palaces and is one of the earliest examples of the Renaissance in Spain. Perched at an altitude of 1,250 metres, the castle dominates the landscape of the Marquisate of Zenete and has been the scene of key historical events, from the Christian conquest to the Alpujarras Rebellion. Recently, it gained prominence after being chosen as the location for the series "House of the Dragon," created by Ryan Condal and George R.R. Martin.Desktop Version
Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia
Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia
Hidden among the forests of northern Armenia, Haghartsin Monastery is a gem of medieval Armenian architecture. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Dilijan National Park, the monastery complex consists of several ornate structures, including the Church of the Holy Mother of God, St. Gregory"s Church and St. Stepanos" Church. The buildings date back to the 10th century and are adorned with intricately carved stone monuments, crossing arches and other decorative details, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. Haghartsin, which translates to "dance of the eagles," offers a serene escape for those seeking to connect with the country"s rich history. A sense of timelessness pervades as you wander through its quiet courtyards and explore the forested surroundings.Desktop Version
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Today"s photo shows an evocative sunset that illuminates the town of Sestri Levante. Italy, with stunning colours. This pearl hidden among the coasts of the Riviera Ligure di Levante enchants its visitors with its natural beauty and a historical heritage rooted as far back as Roman times. Situated between Portofino and the Cinque Terre, it offers breathtaking landscapes and beaches such as the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole, the latter linked to the legend of Hans Christian Andersen and his "Little Mermaid." The Punta Manara Natural Park and the ancient medieval streets enrich the experience, making Sestri Levante a destination of rare beauty and historical charm.Desktop Version
Sea otter, Glacier Bay, Alaska
Sea otter, Glacier Bay, Alaska
It"s hard not to smile when you spot a sea otter. Their whiskery faces, busy paws and thick fur give the impression of a stuffed animal that has come to life and taken to the ocean. These heaviest members of the weasel family aren"t just cute though, they also play a vital role in the kelp forest ecosystem, keeping the destructive sea urchin population in check. Unfortunately, their populations, which once numbered as high as 300,000, dropped to fewer than 2,000 after widespread hunting. International protections were put into place in 1911 and numbers have rebounded to around 125,000, but they still remain endangered. While some habitats never recovered, others have emerged in entirely new locations, such as Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. In 1995, five sea otters were spotted in Glacier Bay, and today there are over 8,000 that hunt, play and raise pups in the kelp-abundant waters.Desktop Version
Plum-headed parakeet
Plum-headed parakeet
Birds come in many shapes and colours, but few are as striking as the plum-headed parakeet, photographed at Shimoga, Karnataka, India, in today"s image. Native to the Indian subcontinent, these birds are found in forests and open woodlands. Their range spans from the Himalayan foothills to Sri Lanka, though they are absent in the arid areas of western India. There have been reports of plum-headed parakeets making their way to places like New York and Florida in the United States, and even parts of the Middle East. Parakeets are often spotted in flocks, chattering melodiously or indulging in their favourite fruits, seeds and blossoms. Their quick, agile flight and playful nature make them a delight in the wild or as beloved pets. Known for their distinctive calls that echo through the air, these birds are also capable of mimicking human speech.Desktop Version
North Sea at sunset, Norddorf, Germany
North Sea at sunset, Norddorf, Germany
Norddorf is a small village—one of the oldest—located on the island of Amrum, off Germany"s northern coast. Amrum has numerous other fishing villages like Norddorf and is home to around 2,300 inhabitants. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the North Sea coast, Norddorf is known for its strong maritime heritage. Museums and lighthouses offer a glimpse into the island"s past. Tourists can also explore the unique wildlife of the Naturschutzgebiet Amrumer Dünen (Amrum Dunes Nature Reserve), home to various bird species, like the red knot and brent goose, and plants, like common sundew and ragged robin.Desktop Version
Saint-François, Guadeloupe, Caribbean
Saint-François, Guadeloupe, Caribbean
Saint-François, located on the southeastern coast of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, is an idyllic Caribbean destination. Famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, it attracts lovers of the sea and the sun. The Saint-François marina is a central point, offering boat trips to neighbouring islands, such as Marie-Galante and Les Saintes.Desktop Version
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
The enchanting Isle of Skye in Scotland is home to the Sligachan Old Bridge, engineered and built by Thomas Telford, a prolific Scottish civil engineer, in the early 1800s. The bridge arches over a river of the same name, and is accessible only to cyclists and pedestrians, while a modern bridge downstream serves car traffic. From atop the bridge"s weathered, humble and mossy stones, travellers can take in the majestic Cuillin Mountains in the distance. According to local tradition, the Sligachan River"s water contains a mysterious blessing provided by fairies. Those who dare to immerse their faces in these waters are said to be gifted with timeless beauty.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
Diamond Beach, Iceland
Diamond Beach, Iceland
From fjords and lava fields to ice caves and black sand beaches, like the one we see in today"s image, Iceland is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Diamond Beach is one of the most popular natural landmarks in the country. Located near the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, this unique beach gets its name from pieces of icebergs, broken off from glaciers, that wash ashore, resembling sparkling diamonds on the dark sand, which comes from eroded volcanic rocks. The contrast between the clear ice and black sand creates a surreal sight, especially when sunlight hits the ice, making it a must-visit destination along Iceland"s south coast.Desktop Version
Surfer riding a wave in Nazaré, Portugal
Surfer riding a wave in Nazaré, Portugal
Today"s image shows an intrepid surfer riding a wave at Nazaré, Portugal. Nazaré on the west coast of Portugal is a popular tourist destination, with people flocking from all over the world to enjoy its sandy beaches in summer. It is on the Atlantic coast and is known for its giant waves, which can reach over 30 metres in height. Come winter, the surfers take over. Thanks to an underwater canyon, enormous waves form off the coast, making it a surfers" paradise. Several surf records have been broken here, including the biggest wave ever surfed—an incredible 26 metres. Surfing has a long history; around 5,000 years ago in Peru, people used reed watercraft to surf the waves when they were out fishing. It was in pre-colonial Hawaii, however, that modern surfing was born. Here, people started to stand on their boards and to surf for fun. So, wax down your surfboards and go out and catch some waves!Desktop Version
Gran Paradiso National Park, Piedmont, Italy
Gran Paradiso National Park, Piedmont, Italy
In the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, straddling Piedmont and Valle d"Aosta, an alpine landscape of rare beauty is revealed, where snow-capped peaks are reflected in crystal-clear lakes. This corner of paradise invites visitors to get lost in its natural wonders, offering a spectacle that seems to come out of a dream. The majestic and imposing mountains stand as silent guardians, while the lakes, with their clear and calm waters, reflect the blue sky and the surrounding peaks.Desktop Version
A great egret in the Pantanal
A great egret in the Pantanal
Walking carefully between the floating leaves of water lilies is a delicate white egret in the tranquil waters of the Pantanal region, Brazil. These birds can regulate their body temperature by adjusting exposure to the sun and their own wings to control body heat. They are usually monogamous, forming pairs that remain together for several breeding seasons. During mating, they perform impressive rituals, including dances and vocalisations, to strengthen the couple"s bond.Desktop Version
Crystal Lake in the Enchantments, Washington, United States
Crystal Lake in the Enchantments, Washington, United States
Sometimes it"s nice to get away. Thanks to environmentalist Howard Zahniser, Americans can do that in one of the country"s many wildernesses—areas sheltered from human activities. Pictured in today"s image, Crystal Lake is one such protected area. Located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington, the Enchantments has more than 700 lakes and ponds and some of the best rock climbing in the Western United States. It"s also home to mountain goats, ptarmigan, pikas and numerous types of alpine flowers. If you want to see Alpine Lakes Wilderness yourself, however, be prepared to wait. Few permits are granted for day hikes, and of the 40,000 people who entered last year"s lottery for overnight permits, only 2,558 received one.Desktop Version
Half-timbered Houses of Freudenberg, Germany
Half-timbered Houses of Freudenberg, Germany
Freudenberg is a charming little town nestled in the Siegen-Wittgenstein district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The town lies in the beautiful hilly uplands, ranging from 243 to 505 metres above sea level. The town is made up of 17 communities spread across about 55 square kilometres, two-thirds of which is lush forest, mainly broadleaf and spruce trees. The heart of Freudenberg is the "Alter Flecken," the historic old town centre, entirely made up of half-timbered houses that give it the feel of a 17th-century town.Desktop Version
South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead, Wales, UK
South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead, Wales, UK
Built on the rugged cliffs of Holy Island, Wales, the South Stack Lighthouse stands watch over the deep waters of the Irish Sea. The 28-metre-tall white tower has guided sailors since its completion in 1809; it provides safe passage for ships on the Dublin-Holyhead-Liverpool route. When it was built, sperm whale oil was used to light the lamps; however, over the years, the mechanism has been upgraded to more advanced technology like LED bulbs and Fresnel lenses. Automated in 1984, the lighthouse continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, with its powerful beam shining up to 45 kilometres. As the sun sets and the sky fills with colours, the silhouette of the South Stack Lighthouse in the dusk makes for a stunning sight. Visitors brave the 400-step descent down the steep cliff face to explore the lighthouse, including its engine room and exhibition area.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
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
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
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
Lake Tyrrell, Victoria, Australia
Lake Tyrrell, Victoria, Australia
At Lake Tyrrell, southern Australia, the sky meets the Earth in a dazzling display. The state of Victoria"s largest salt lake was formed around 120,000 years ago. Over time, climate change caused water levels to drop; these days, the lake is normally dry, except in winter when it"s covered in around 5 centimetres of water. The name "Tyrrell" comes from the local Wergaia word for "sky," a nod to the Boorong Aboriginal People"s interest in astronomy. Spanning more than 18,000 hectares, Lake Tyrrell is a haven for wildlife, including Mallee reptiles, kangaroos and emus.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 21,000 kilometres and dating back thousands of years, the ancient marvel in today"s picture is a series of fortifications spanning rugged mountains, valleys and deserts. Although it was originally conceived in the 3rd century BCE, some of its most famous sections were built during the Ming dynasty between the 14th and 17th centuries CE. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases advanced ancient engineering and remains a symbol of Chinese history and culture. Featuring steep trenches and watchtowers, parts of it were designed to keep invaders at bay. Hiking the Great Wall 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
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
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
Polar bears in the Arctic
Polar bears in the Arctic
Humans have celebrated the new year since at least 2000 BCE, but various cultures have chosen different days coinciding with equinoxes or lunar cycles. The Romans established January 1 as the beginning of the year in 153 BCE, but this fell out of favour throughout Europe during the medieval era. Since 1582 and the widespread adoption of the Gregorian calendar, however, much of the world now celebrates the new year on the first day of January. In addition to watching fireworks, drinking champagne and making resolutions in the wee hours of the morning, other global traditions include making noise, eating lucky foods and giving gifts.Desktop Version