Pope Francis Dies Aged 88

Pope Francis Dies Aged 88

File photo - Pope Francis inaugurated on December 13, 2019 in Rome, Italy the new Vatican headquarters of 'Scholas Occurrentes', a pontifical organization involved in education in 190 countries around the world. The foundation, a benefit Organisation, whose name means "schools that meet" in Spanish, links technology with the arts, aiming at social integration and a cultural of peace. Francis had created a similar organisation when he was Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, but Scholas has now become an international foundation working out of the Vatican. -- Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. Photo by Eric Vandeville /ABACAPRESS.COM

Pope Francis Dies Aged 88

Pope Francis Dies Aged 88

File photo - Pope Francis inaugurated on December 13, 2019 in Rome, Italy the new Vatican headquarters of 'Scholas Occurrentes', a pontifical organization involved in education in 190 countries around the world. The foundation, a benefit Organisation, whose name means "schools that meet" in Spanish, links technology with the arts, aiming at social integration and a cultural of peace. Francis had created a similar organisation when he was Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, but Scholas has now become an international foundation working out of the Vatican. -- Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta. Photo by Eric Vandeville /ABACAPRESS.COM

Discussion on compulsory religious education

Discussion on compulsory religious education

22.10.2024, Tallinn. At a public session of the Riigikogu's Cultural Affairs Committee, the status of religious education as a compulsory subject in Estonian general education schools was discussed. While some experts advocate having a separate lesson in the curriculum for religious education, there were also those who favor better integration of the subject into the curricula of other humanities subjects. Photo Tairo Lutter, Postimees

Discussion on compulsory religious education

Discussion on compulsory religious education

22.10.2024, Tallinn. At a public session of the Riigikogu's Cultural Affairs Committee, the status of religious education as a compulsory subject in Estonian general education schools was discussed. While some experts advocate having a separate lesson in the curriculum for religious education, there were also those who favor better integration of the subject into the curricula of other humanities subjects. From right bishop Marko Tiitus, Archbishop of Tallinn and head of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Urmas Viilma, Monika Helme, Kadri Tali, Tanel Tein. Photo Tairo Lutter, Postimees

Discussion on compulsory religious education

Discussion on compulsory religious education

22.10.2024, Tallinn. At a public session of the Riigikogu's Cultural Affairs Committee, the status of religious education as a compulsory subject in Estonian general education schools was discussed. While some experts advocate having a separate lesson in the curriculum for religious education, there were also those who favor better integration of the subject into the curricula of other humanities subjects. From right bishop Marko Tiitus, Archbishop of Tallinn and head of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Urmas Viilma, Monika Helme, Kadri Tali, Tanel Tein. Photo Tairo Lutter, Postimees

Discussion on compulsory religious education

Discussion on compulsory religious education

22.10.2024, Tallinn. At a public session of the Riigikogu's Cultural Affairs Committee, the status of religious education as a compulsory subject in Estonian general education schools was discussed. While some experts advocate having a separate lesson in the curriculum for religious education, there were also those who favor better integration of the subject into the curricula of other humanities subjects. Photo Tairo Lutter, Postimees

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

Saishang Old Street View in Hohhot

HOHHOT, CHINA - JULY 3, 2024 - Tourists enjoy the scenery of Saishang Old Street, the core area of Saishang Old Street tourism and leisure district, in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China, July 3, 2024. On both sides of the old street, cowhide bags, horn combs, ethnic jewelry, antique specialties and other commodities are dazzling. Saishang Old Street, which originated in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, has been a trading center since then, where characteristic commodities from the grassland and tea and silk from the Central Plains gather, forming a unique Mongolian merchant culture, national culture and old city culture, and witnessing the exchanges and integration of various ethnic groups. 88 immovable cultural relics, 37 intangible cultural heritage projects and 16 time-honored brands add a strong historical and cultural atmosphere here.

CHINA-HEILONGJIANG-HARBIN-ANCIENT COINS-ETHNIC INTEGRATION (CN)

CHINA-HEILONGJIANG-HARBIN-ANCIENT COINS-ETHNIC INTEGRATION (CN)

(240703) -- HARBIN, July 3, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- Various coins and cultural relics exhibits of Jin Dynasty (1115-1234) are displayed at the Jin Shangjing History Museum in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, June 26, 2024. TO GO WITH "Across China: Ancient coins witness Chinese ethnic integration" Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM/Tang Tiefu)

XINHUA PHOTOS OF THE DAY

XINHUA PHOTOS OF THE DAY

(240628) -- BEIJING, June 28, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- A volunteer tells the history of the Wanshan Bridge to a group of young visitors in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 26, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- People walk on the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 26, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- This drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows people taking photos on the Shouchang Bridge in Erdu Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- A woman walks on the Jianji Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 27, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- This photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows a view of the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- An aerial drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows people resting on the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- An aerial drone photo taken on June 27, 2024 shows a pedestrian walking on the Sheqiao Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- A woman walks on the Yong'an Bridge in Xiayang Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 25, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- This drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows a man boating under the Shouchang Bridge in Erdu Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- A volunteer tells the history of the Wanshan Bridge to a group of young visitors in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 26, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- People visit the Puji Bridge in Lishan Village of Zhongguan Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 24, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 Photo by Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM) -- Cultural relics conservators conduct inspections on the Jianji Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 27, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua/ABACAPRESS.COM

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- This photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows a view of the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- Cultural relics conservators conduct inspections on the Jianji Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 27, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- People visit the Puji Bridge in Lishan Village of Zhongguan Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 24, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- This drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows people taking photos on the Shouchang Bridge in Erdu Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- A woman walks on the Jianji Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 27, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- People walk on the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 26, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- An aerial drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows people resting on the Wanshan Bridge in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- An aerial drone photo taken on June 27, 2024 shows a pedestrian walking on the Sheqiao Bridge in Longsheng Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- This drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows a man boating under the Shouchang Bridge in Erdu Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- A woman walks on the Yong'an Bridge in Xiayang Village of Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 25, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

#CHINA-ZHEJIANG-DEQING-ANCIENT BRIDGES-RENOVATION (CN)

(240627) -- DEQING, June 27, 2024 (Xinhua) -- A volunteer tells the history of the Wanshan Bridge to a group of young visitors in Shebei Village of Xin'an Town, Deqing County, east China's Zhejiang Province, June 26, 2024. Deqing County is home to seven ancient stone bridges which are listed as major cultural heritage sites under state-level protection. In recent years, the county has spared no effort in the protection and renovation of ancient stone bridges, while promoting the integration of its heritage resources with cultural tourism and research trips. (Photo by Xie Shangguo/Xinhua)

Malta student wins Chinese competition, advances to global finals

STORY: Malta student wins Chinese competition, advances to global finals SHOOTING TIME: May 17, 2024 DATELINE: May 18, 2024 LENGTH: 00:02:56 LOCATION: Valletta CATEGORY: CULTURE SHOTLIST: 1. various of the opening of the competition 2. students participating in the competition and the awarding ceremony STORYLINE: Elisabeth Van Nieuwamerongen, a sophomore, triumphed in the Confucius Institute competition at the University of Malta, earning a spot in the global competition in China, with her Chinese speech on cultural integration. In a display of linguistic prowess and cultural appreciation, students from the Confucius Institute participated in the 23rd "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competition on Friday, featuring speeches and a talent show. Expressing her excitement to Xinhua, Van Nieuwamerongen said: "I am looking forward to meeting people from other countries in China. It will be a great opportunity to communicate and become friends." She also voiced her hope to further improve her Chinese

CHINA-CHONGQING-CIQIKOU-ANCIENT TOWN-AERIAL VIEW (CN)

CHINA-CHONGQING-CIQIKOU-ANCIENT TOWN-AERIAL VIEW (CN)

(240429) -- CHONGQING, April 29, 2024 (Xinhua) -- An aerial drone photo taken on April 28, 2024 shows a view of the Ciqikou ancient town in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Located by the Jialing River in Chongqing, the ancient town of Ciqikou was first built in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). In recent years, local authorities have advanced the integration of cultural and tourism development and the urban renewal, while preserving the authentic charm of the ancient town. (Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)