Illustration - New York City - NYC

Illustration - New York City - NYC

UNITED STATES, NEW YORK CITY, MIDTOWN. AERIAL VIEW OF THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING AND LOWER MANHATTAN AT SUNSET (YEAR 2002) Photo by Francois Roux/Only World/ABACAPRESS.COM

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Syrian head of state Bashar al-Assad and London-born wife Asma al-Assad appear to live in a surreal psychological bubble, insulated from the grotesque violence that has claimed the lives of 8,000 Syrians, according to a cache of some 3,000 alleged emails and documents obtained by Syrian activists and published by the Guardian issue dated March 15, 2012. File photo : © Ammar Abd Rabbo/ABACA. EXCLUSIVE. 40867-10. London-UK, 18/12/2002. Syrian president Bashar Al Assad poses with wife Asma and their one year old son Hafez in London before their departure after a three day visit.

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Syrian head of state Bashar al-Assad and London-born wife Asma al-Assad appear to live in a surreal psychological bubble, insulated from the grotesque violence that has claimed the lives of 8,000 Syrians, according to a cache of some 3,000 alleged emails and documents obtained by Syrian activists and published by the Guardian issue dated March 15, 2012. File photo : © Ammar Abd Rabbo/ABACA. EXCLUSIVE. 40867-1. London-UK, 18/12/2002. Syrian president Bashar Al Assad poses with wife Asma and their one year old son Hafez in London before their departure after a three day visit.

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Hacked Emails Expose Bashar al-Assad and Wife (Files)

Syrian head of state Bashar al-Assad and London-born wife Asma al-Assad appear to live in a surreal psychological bubble, insulated from the grotesque violence that has claimed the lives of 8,000 Syrians, according to a cache of some 3,000 alleged emails and documents obtained by Syrian activists and published by the Guardian issue dated March 15, 2012. File photo : © Ammar Abd Rabbo/ABACA. EXCLUSIVE. 40867-1. London-UK, 18/12/2002. Syrian president Bashar Al Assad poses with wife Asma and their one year old son Hafez in London before their departure after a three day visit.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto smiles with a bouquet after announcing his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Football: Former Japan Inamoto retires at 45

Former Japan midfielder Junichi Inamoto announces his retirement at a press conference in Tokyo on Dec. 4, 2024. The 45-year-old played for Japan in three consecutive football World Cups, starting with the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea when he scored two goals.

Illustration For US Election Day

Illustration For US Election Day

File photo dated September 10, 2002 - American flags are all over the 2 World Financial Plaza, near Ground Zero, a few hours prior to the 9/11 terrorist attacks one year anniversary ceremonies. - American voters go to the polls on Tuesday to choose their next president. US election results are sometimes declared within hours of the polls closing, but this year's tight contest could mean a longer wait. Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump, the former president, have been running neck-and-neck for weeks. Photo by Hahn-Khayat/ABACAPRESS.COM

Italian youth population declining as number of elderly grows

STORY: Italian youth population declining as number of elderly grows SHOOTING TIME: May 15, 2024 DATELINE: May 16, 2024 LENGTH: 0:00:46 LOCATION: Rome CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of street views in Italy STORYLINE: The number of young adults in Italy has declined sharply in the last two decades, while the number of elderly people in the country has grown, government data released Wednesday shows. Italy's National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT) said in its 2024 Annual Report that an increasing number of those in the youngest demographic continue to live at home with their parents, and Italians are also getting married and having children later in life. The number of young adults in Italy -- defined as people between the ages of 18 and 34 -- fell by more than 3 million in the 21-year span ending last year, ISTAT reported. Over that time, the number of young adults declined to 10.33 million compared to 13.39 million in 2002, a decrease of 22.9 percent. In contrast, the number of elderly people

Event celebrating Lunar New Year held in New Zealand parliament

STORY: Event celebrating Lunar New Year held in New Zealand parliament SHOOTING TIME: Feb. 12, 2024 DATELINE: Feb. 12, 2024 LENGTH: 0:01:37 LOCATION: Wellington CATEGORY: SOCIETY SHOTLIST: 1. various of the celebrations STORYLINE: An event celebrating the Lunar New Year was held at the New Zealand parliament on Monday, which has become an annual gathering since 2002. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told the celebration that New Zealand has strong, diverse Asian communities that are telling inspiring stories. Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wang Xiaolong said the annual event has become a time-honored tradition showcasing the way New Zealand values the contribution of the Chinese community and the role of the Chinese culture as a part of the multicultural mosaic in the country. The ambassador recalled the progress of the bilateral relations, saying this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He believed that the nature of

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

(240212) -- WELLINGTON, Feb. 12, 2024 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon interacts with lion dance performers during an event celebrating the Lunar New Year at the New Zealand parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, on Feb. 12, 2024. The event held at the New Zealand parliament on Monday has become an annual gathering since 2002. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told the celebration that New Zealand has strong, diverse Asian communities that are telling inspiring stories. (Photo by Meng Tao/Xinhua)

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

(240212) -- WELLINGTON, Feb. 12, 2024 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon addresses an event celebrating the Lunar New Year at the New Zealand parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, on Feb. 12, 2024. The event held at the New Zealand parliament on Monday has become an annual gathering since 2002. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told the celebration that New Zealand has strong, diverse Asian communities that are telling inspiring stories. (Photo by Meng Tao/Xinhua)

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

NEW ZEALAND-WELLINGTON-PARLIAMENT-LUNAR NEW YEAR-CELEBRATION

(240212) -- WELLINGTON, Feb. 12, 2024 (Xinhua) -- Guests watch a performance during an event celebrating the Lunar New Year at the New Zealand parliament in Wellington, New Zealand, on Feb. 12, 2024. The event held at the New Zealand parliament on Monday has become an annual gathering since 2002. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon told the celebration that New Zealand has strong, diverse Asian communities that are telling inspiring stories. (Photo by Meng Tao/Xinhua)

Gerard Depardieu Stripped Of Order Of Quebec

Gerard Depardieu Stripped Of Order Of Quebec

File photo dated August 31, 2002 shows French actor Gerard Depardieu (left), who was injured in a recent motorcycle accident, recieves the Order of Quebec medal from Quebec Premier Bernard Landry at the World Film Festival in Montreal, PQ, Canada. Following shocking comments captured on video and posted on social media, Gerard Depardieu has been removed from his Order of Quebec. The 74-year-old actor was caught making derogatory and sexist comments about women and a girl of about 10 years old. He also made lewd gestures and comments about himself while watching the women riding horses during an episode of a France 2 channel show "La Chute de l'ogre." The footage was filmed by a professional crew that covered Depardieu's visit during the 70th anniversary of North Korea's formation. Photo by Ryan Remiorz/CP/ABACAPRESS.COM

Gerard Depardieu Stripped Of Order Of Quebec

Gerard Depardieu Stripped Of Order Of Quebec

File photo dated August 31, 2002 shows French actor Gerard Depardieu, who was injured in a recent motorcycle accident, smiles after receiving the Order of Quebec medal at the World Film Festival in Montreal, PQ, Canada. Following shocking comments captured on video and posted on social media, Gerard Depardieu has been removed from his Order of Quebec. The 74-year-old actor was caught making derogatory and sexist comments about women and a girl of about 10 years old. He also made lewd gestures and comments about himself while watching the women riding horses during an episode of a France 2 channel show "La Chute de l'ogre." The footage was filmed by a professional crew that covered Depardieu's visit during the 70th anniversary of North Korea's formation. Photo by Ryan Remiorz/CP/ABACAPRESS.COM

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on Nov. 22, 2023 shows the entrance of the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on Nov. 22, 2023 shows the interior view of the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Jacques Landry (L), Director of the World Cycling Centre, speaks during an interview with Xinhua at the UCI headquarters in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- A bike installation window display is seen in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on Nov. 22, 2023 shows the exterior view of the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on Nov. 22, 2023 shows the exterior view of the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on Nov. 22, 2023 shows the exterior view of the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Athletes train at the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Dutch track cyclist Jeffrey Hoogland trains at the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- A bike installation is seen on the way to the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- A man bicycles on a pump track at the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(SP)SWITZERLAND-AIGLE-UCI-WORLD CYCLING CENTRE

(231123) -- AIGLE, Nov. 23, 2023 (Xinhua) -- The mechanical workshop is seen at the World Cycling Centre in Aigle, Switzerland, Nov. 22, 2023. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) World Cycling Centre (WCC) is an elite coaching and training centre. Opened in 2002, every year it welcomes a large number of athletes from all over the world. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows part of the Piyang grottoes in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows part of a mural in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab gets a meal from her daughter-in-law in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab (C) introduces murals to tourists in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previ

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows part of a mural in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab views murals in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in north

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab inspects a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in north China's

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows part of a mural in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab introduces murals to tourists in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previousl

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab unlocks the door of a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in no

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This aerial photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows the Piyang grottoes in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously foun

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab poses for a photo in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in n

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab prepares to clean a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in nort

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab introduces murals to tourists in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previousl

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab walks between grottoes in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in north Ch

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows part of a mural in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously fou

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab inspects a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in north China's

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- Rigzin Wangzhab has a meal outside a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, May 26, 2023. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in nor

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

CHINA-TIBET-ZANDA-CULTURAL RELICS-GUARDIAN (CN)

(230528) -- ZANDA, May 28, 2023 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on May 26, 2023 shows murals in a grotto in Zanda County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Hidden among sandstone hills in remote western Tibet, a stretch of honeycomb-shaped caverns is way beyond the reach of most travelers. Known as the Donggar and Piyang grottoes, the 1,000-year-old caverns in the Tibet Autonomous Region's Ngari Prefecture hold one of the world's greatest collections of Tibetan Buddhist murals. Rigzin Wangzhab, 75, has been guarding the site for more than 20 years. "When I was very young, I was told that the grottoes on the mountain were relics of high research value, so I had been thinking about doing something for them," Rigzin recalled. It was in 2002 that Rigzin learned of a job opening for these cultural relics protection. He applied for the position, strongly believing that the job would be the best way for him to guard the relics. Buddhist murals have been previously found in nor