Malta Captured: Local Photos Compete in Global Nature Competition

Sep 15 2024

Fifteen photos showcasing Malta and Gozo’s natural beauty are set to participate in the international Wiki Loves Earth competition.

These images, which highlight the islands’ landscapes, flora, and fauna, were chosen from 515 entries submitted to the local edition of the contest. The selection process was led by Wikimedia Community Malta and Friends of the Earth (Malta), with 38 participants contributing to this year’s event.

Among the highlights are an impressive aerial shot of the Zelijka Cliffs, a mesmerising night image of the Milky Way over Fungus Rock, and close-up shots of fascinating creatures like the hummingbird hawk-moth.

For the second year, the competition was divided into two categories: landscape shots and those focusing on local flora and fauna. All 15 finalist photos are now available on Wikimedia Commons, where they can be freely used under a Creative Commons license, as long as credit is given to the photographers.

These top entries will now be submitted to the international edition of Wiki Loves Earth, competing against photos from 56 countries, with a total of 79,765 entries globally.

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Little ‘Moo Deng’ Hippo Goes Viral For Being Too Cute

Sep 14 2024

Moo Deng, whose name roughly translates to “bouncy pig,” is a two-month-old female pygmy hippo that has recently gone viral.

Fans online have gone crazy over the little hippo with one fan commenting “I’ve been thinking about this queen all day long.”

Since her birth in July, a zoo in Thailand has reportedly seen visitor numbers double. However, videos have surfaced showing some visitors mistreating the young hippo, with people throwing shellfish and splashing water on her in an attempt to wake her from sleep.

“These actions are not only cruel but also pose a risk,” the zoo’s director stated in an online announcement.

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Peppi Azzoppardi’s Farewell Message Featured On Karl Gouder’s Memorial Card

Sep 14 2024

Karl Gouder who tragically passed away a few days ago, has had Peppi Azzopardi’s heartwarming poem printed on his memorial card or ‘santa’ during his funeral at the San Ġiljan parish church.

Azzopardi started his poem tribute by saying how much Karl shocked a lot of people and how loved and dear he is by so many people.

He ended his short poem message by stating “Karl, with your love, you united a country,”.

The funeral truly proved Peppi’s last few words right, with the majority of Malta’s political scene whether Labour or Nationalist attending his funeral to say their final goodbyes.

Prime Minister Robert Abela, Leader of Opposition Bernard Grech, President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola were all present at the funeral to wish their condolences and say theit goodbyes.

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Ħamrun’s St Cajetan Statue At St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

Sep 14 2024

The statue of Ħamrun’s patron saint, St. Cajetan, successfully arrived in Rome a few weeks ago in preparation for a historic pilgrimage.

This sacred statue, which was carefully transported from Ħamrun, Malta, was first placed in the Basilica of Sant’Andrea Della Valle in Rome. Today, it has reached its final destination, the world-renowned St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

The statue’s journey is part of the celebrations marking the 500th anniversary of the founding of the Theatine Order, an order established by St. Cajetan himself. This event holds deep significance not only for the Maltese community but also for the wider Catholic world.

On September 14th, a special commemoration will be held in Rome to honor this remarkable milestone.

The event will celebrate St. Cajetan’s legacy and the enduring impact of the Theatine Order, highlighting the spiritual influence that has resonated over five centuries. This pilgrimage and commemoration are a proud moment for both Malta and the followers of St. Cajetan, adding a historic chapter to the statue’s journey and the saint’s enduring legacy.

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