Elephant Rock 🐘🌋✨ • One of the most amazing rock formations I’ve ever photographed. Here’s a collection from the famous Elephant Rock in Iceland. This natural basalt formation looks like a big elephant head with its trunk submerged underwater. 📸 @h0rdur

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Much love ❤️ 📸 @lionpark.uz

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New York is home to some of the world’s most elegant and expressive architectural structures, epitomizing strength, beauty, and modernity. It proudly hosts the first representative of this new era in design. Utilizing cutting-edge 3D rendering technology, @hism.eu seamlessly integrates the next iconic skyscraper into NewYork’s future skyline. Via architectanddesign

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An eye of emerald and an eye of gold. 📸 @dhruvpatil_photography

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Lightning on the sea 🌊 📸 @scottlaurenson

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Cats in Istanbul hold a special place and receive great care from Turkish residents. This city, known for its narrow alleys and historic markets, serves as a safe haven for cats, which can be seen almost everywhere—from streets and gardens to cafes, shops, and even mosques. Turks consider cats a part of their cultural and religious heritage. In Islamic culture, cats are regarded as pure and receive special treatment, with many stories recounting the Prophet Muhammad God's blessing and peace be upon him   compassion for cats. This religious legacy, along with a cultural tradition that values kindness to animals, encourages Turks to make efforts to care for cats by providing food and shelter. In Istanbul, there are numerous initiatives dedicated to caring for cats, with food and water boxes placed in public areas. Some shops and cafes even open their doors to cats and consider them regular guests. Additionally, many Turks contribute to the health care of stray cats, funding vaccinations and necessary treatments. Thus, care for animals in general, and cats in particular, is one of the most beautiful aspects of Turkish culture. 📸 @keyif_art

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Persepolis A Glimpse into Ancient Persian Splendor Persepolis is an archaeological marvel that offers a captivating window into the grandeur of ancient Persia. Located in present-day Iran, Persepolis stands as a testament to the architectural prowess, artistic finesse, and cultural richness of the Persian Empire. Constructed during the reign of Darius the Great in the 6th century BCE, Persepolis served as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, one of the world's most powerful and expansive empires at the time. The city was meticulously designed and meticulously crafted over several generations, symbolizing the opulence and authority of the Persian kings. Persepolis was not only a symbol of political power but also a hub of cultural exchange. Scholars, artists, and craftsmen from different regions of the empire converged in Persepolis, contributing to its rich artistic heritage. The carvings, sculptures, and murals found in the ruins depict scenes from daily life, religious rituals, and mythical narratives, providing valuable insights into the beliefs and customs of the time. In recognition of its outstanding universal value, Persepolis was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Efforts have been made to preserve and restore the site, allowing future generations to marvel at its splendor and gain a deeper understanding of the history and legacy of ancient Persia. Visiting Persepolis is an immersive experience that transports visitors back in time to a bygone era of grandeur and magnificence. It serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Persian Empire and the remarkable achievements of its people. Persepolis stands as a cultural treasure, inviting us to appreciate the beauty of the past and reflect on the interconnectedness of civilizations throughout history. 📷 @daaaniiaaal

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EYELASHES / Big eyes, long eyelashes, a petite nose; a dik-dik male posing for a portrait in golden sunset light. The smallest antelope of the African savanna, it weighs not much more than a house cat. It lives in strictly monogamous pairs that comfort each other after dangerous situations by licking their partner in the face. It's highly adapted to arid areas, among others by having a sophisticated climate-control system in its nose. This one is from Samburu National Reserve in NE Kenya. 📸 @mogenstrolle

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Persepolis, the Ancient City of Splendors Persepolis, located in modern-day Iran, stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient civilizations. Built during the Achaemenid Empire, around 518 BCE, Persepolis served as the ceremonial capital under the rule of Darius the Great and his successors. The city's architecture reflects the sophisticated engineering and artistic prowess of its time. The monumental entrance, known as the Gate of All Nations, welcomed visitors with its imposing bull-headed capitals and intricately carved reliefs. Persepolis showcased the Achaemenid commitment to multiculturalism, as depicted by the numerous delegations represented in these reliefs. The Apadana Palace, the heart of Persepolis, was a majestic audience hall where the king received tributes from the diverse corners of the empire. The grand staircases leading to the palace featured detailed reliefs illustrating the diverse subjects of the empire, symbolizing unity under the Achaemenid rule. The Treasury and the Hall of 100 Columns further emphasized the opulence of Persepolis. The Treasury, possibly a royal storage facility, exhibited the Achaemenid wealth, while the Hall of 100 Columns, adorned with intricately carved columns, served as a monumental space for ceremonies and celebrations. Despite its grandeur, Persepolis met its tragic fate. In 330 BCE, Alexander the Great captured and partly destroyed the city, leaving enduring traces of fire and destruction. Nevertheless, the ruins of Persepolis continue to captivate archaeologists, historians, and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the ancient splendors of a once-magnificent city. Persepolis remains an archaeological marvel, echoing the greatness of a bygone era and inviting contemplation on the transience of empires. Today, as visitors wander through its majestic columns and reliefs, they are transported back in time, connecting with the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable ancient city. Selected By :@iran_memari @be.in.iran Credit To :@a.r.naderifard

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