Latest news with #Cathedral
AFP
a day ago
- Politics
- AFP
Montreal basilica did not chime bells to discourage praying Muslims
"In an attempt to intimidate Catholics, Muslims held a 'prayer service' in front of the Cathedral in Montreal. This was the Cathedral's response...," claims the caption of a July 24, 2025 Instagram video. In the clip, participants accompanied by a Palestinian flag kneel and rise in a public square as loud church bells silence most of the other noise in the footage. Different versions of the claim that the video shows the iconic Montreal basilica deliberately drowning out the Muslim prayer also spread on Facebook, X and TikTok. Image Screenshot of an Instagram post taken July 29, 2025 Image Screenshot of an X post taken July 29, 2025 The proportion of Muslims in the Canadian population more than doubled from 2001-2021 (archived here), creating tensions over how to accommodate requests to pray during the school or work day. In December 2024, Quebec Premier François Legault said he wants to ban praying in public, commenting that he wanted to send a "message to Islamists." The Canadian Muslim Forum said the threatened ban "unfairly targets Quebecers, especially those of Muslim faith, based solely on their backgrounds" (archived here). Some rabbis criticized the proposal, while Catholic bishops in the province panned the move to restrict public expression of faith in a letter saying "praying is not dangerous" (archived here and here). The posts claiming the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal deliberately rang its bells to put a stop to the Muslim prayer in front of its establishment are inaccurate. A basilica spokesman told AFP the demonstration did not trigger the striking of the bells, which he said automatically chime every hour on the hour. "The basilica is not involved in these gatherings, which are a legitimate exercise of freedom of expression in an emblematic public space of Montreal," the spokesman said in a July 29 email. The Canadian Press reported one of the earliest versions of the clip uploaded to social media claimed the footage was taken on June 8 at around 6 pm (2200 GMT). Six o'clock is the final hour the bells are struck each day, ending the schedule with a more complex flurry of rings, according to the basilica's website (archived here). Rather than a consistent chiming, the bells heard in the video circulating on social media are more frenetic. The Canadian Press fact-check also noted a protest advertised by the advocacy group Montreal4Palestine took place on June 8 within walking distance of the church (archived here and here). AFP reached out to the organization for a comment but did not receive a response. AFP previously fact-checked claims misrepresenting Muslim beliefs and engagement with pro-Palestinian advocacy in Canada.
News.com.au
2 days ago
- Sport
- News.com.au
Adam Scott ‘excited' to return home for Australian summer of golf
The chance to play an Australian Open at Royal Melbourne for the first time in his decorated career was too good to refuse for Adam Scott, who will return home to play in three events later this year after staying away in 2024. The 2013 Masters champion has committed to playing in not only the Open (December 4-7) but also the Australian PGA Championship (November 27-30, Royal Queensland) and the Cathedral Invitational (December 9-10, Cathedral Golf Club and Lodge). 'I feel like I've done my best my whole career to support the events in Australia, and I felt like missing one (year) would be OK, but I'm very excited to come back again and play this year,' Scott sad on Wednesday. 'I'm excited to come home to play at my home club Royal Queensland at the PGA again, and then, of course, it's very exciting to see the Australian Open move to Royal Melbourne this year for the first time in my career. 'I'm glad I'm going to get that opportunity at long last, and finishing out with Cathedral, which is a really fun way to end the year in a far more relaxed environment.' Royal Melbourne will host the Australian Open for the first time since 1991, with the field also including world No.2 Rory McIlroy, who this year secured a career Grand Slam with his win at the Masters. 'No doubt it made big headlines (overseas) that Rory was coming down to play at Australia,' Scott said. 'That pushed Royal Melbourne out there even more, and there are a fair few guys who played the Presidents Cup in 2019 at Royal Melbourne, and it's certainly gotten a lot of attention from the players right through the ranks, from the top guys on down. 'Royal Melbourne has an incredible history and reputation that a lot of guys would like to experience. 'It's got this reputation, and rightly so, of being our greatest golf course. With the announcement of Rory coming down to play, it refreshed everyone's mind how good it is. 'There has definitely been 100 times more interest in the Australian Open and the events in Australia this year.' Scott, 45, said he would plan his schedule between now and November to ensure he was feeling physically and mentally fresh in his bids to win a second Australian Open and a third Australian PGA title. 'I've learned my lesson a little bit the last couple years that I'm at the point where I can't continue pushing myself,' he said. 'It just doesn't work like it used to, so I'm going to try, to not take it easy, but plan my time a little better because I certainly want to come down and perform and give myself a shot at these great trophies at home.' Scott said this year had been frustrating for him, believing his 'good golf' had not been rewarded with wins. He was in the final group in the fourth round of June's US Open at Oakmont Country Club, only to shoot a 79 to finish in a tie for 12th. Scott then missed the cut earlier this month at The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. 'The Open was disappointing. I just played poorly on Friday (in the second round). I got out of sorts in the wind and couldn't figure it out,' he said. 'There are a lot of things I can think I'd do different. At the US Open it was disappointing to leave without a result and that's kind of been how my year's been – all my good golf has ended up not really getting the results I wanted. 'To be in the mix with nine to go at the US Open, and to be in the mix with nine to go at the PGA Championship, still gives me enough confidence that I'm doing enough of the right things. I just have to iron out a couple of the kinks to get over the line.' Meanwhile, Scott wasn't expecting LIV and America's PGA Tour to merge anytime soon as golf remains divided. 'There have really been no developments since earlier this year, so I would say, don't hold your breath,' said Scott, a player director on the PGA Tour policy board. 'The guys who have stayed at the PGA Tour have made a choice to play PGA Tour-style golf, and most of them probably would have had the opportunity to play LIV-style golf, so they've made their choices, and there's a divide, obviously.'
ITV News
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- ITV News
Oasis fever: How the North West is preparing for the reunion tour ahead of five Heaton Park gigs
As Oasis make their triumphant return to Manchester for the first time in 16 years the city has been celebrating in the only way it knows how. From pop-up shops, to murals and even store name changes, the city is well and truly getting Oasis fever. Fans have pleaded with the brothers to regroup since they disbanded in 2009, prompted by a backstage brawl at the Rock en Seine festival in Paris. But after 15 years, fans got their wish, and in August 2024, a reunion tour was announced. The Oasis Live '25 tour kicked off in Cardiff before the Gallagher brothers made their way back to their home city on Friday 11 July for a string of shows at Heaton Park. It means the city is now preparing for an influx of tens of thousands of fans for the band's stint at Heaton Park. Here's how the region is marking the occasion: Aldi turns into Aldeh Supermarket Aldi has changed the name of its Bury New Road store in Prestwich to 'Aldeh', embracing the Mancunian pronunciation of its name. The store is just a stone's throw away from Heaton Park, where Oasis will perform some of their comeback gigs. The company said the rebrand is a "homage to the Gallagher brothers and the city's musical heritage." Pop-up shop opens in Manchester Fans have flocked to a pop-up shop in Spinningfields that's opened ahead of the tour. Selling everything from bucket hats to baby grows, the shop is one of six opening across the UK and Ireland this summer, with the others in Cardiff, London, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Dublin. There is also an official merchandise store opened in St Peter's Square, while the Adidas store on Market Street has been repurposed for the brand's collaboration with the band. New mural unveiled A new mural celebrating the reunion of Oasis has been unveiled in Manchester. It has been added to the mosaics that decorate Affleck's Palace, an alternative indoor market, which already features other local legends like Emmeline Pankhurst and Morrissey. The latest tribute to Noel and Liam Gallagher comes courtesy of artist Mark Kennedy. Guitar dome in St Peter's Square As part of a wider city-wide art trail, more than 80 artworks, murals, mosaics and installations have been installed celebrating Manchester's music scene. A dome made entirely of guitars - 'Cathedral of Sound' - is on display in St Peter's Square. When it comes to Oasis, fans can see the band's Gibson signed by the Gallagher brothers at Selfridges.
Belfast Telegraph
10-07-2025
- Belfast Telegraph
Captivating cities in Europe you must visit in your lifetime
Europe boasts many cities steeped in history, rich culture, and diverse landscapes that inspire travellers time and again. A city escape can be a brilliant introduction to a country you've never visited, giving you a taste of its culture, cuisine, and atmosphere in just a few days. Whether you're counting down to your next momentous holiday or have just returned from an epic trip, a short break is the perfect way to satisfy your wanderlust. Here are some of the most captivating European cities to add to your travel list. Prague, Czech Republic Prague is one of Europe's best-preserved mediaeval cities. Known for its Gothic spires, Baroque architecture, and vibrant culture, it offers visitors a rich historical experience alongside a thriving arts scene and a renowned beer tradition. Must-see sights: Explore Prague Castle with its magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral, stroll across Charles Bridge early in the morning for breathtaking views, immerse yourself in Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock, and admire the colourful John Lennon Wall. Top excursions: Take a short train journey to Kutná Hora to explore its UNESCO-listed mediaeval town centre and the Sedlec Ossuary, famously decorated with thousands of human bones in honour of the deceased. Krakow, Poland Krakow is widely regarded as Poland's cultural capital. It boasts a beautifully preserved mediaeval old town, Renaissance architecture, and a lively atmosphere filled with cafés and galleries. Must-see sights: Admire the regal Wawel Castle and Cathedral, wander through the vast Main Market Square with its historic Cloth Hall, and soak up the atmosphere in the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter, known for its vibrant bars and synagogues. Top excursions: Visit the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, explore the extraordinary underground chambers of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or travel to Zakopane, a popular mountain resort in the Tatra Mountains famed for its wooden architecture and scenic views. Ljubljana, Slovenia Ljubljana is known for its compact size, leafy riverside walks, artistic public water fountains, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. The city is highly pedestrian-friendly, with cars restricted from entering the centre, making it a pleasant place to explore on foot. Must-see sights: Visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views, cross the iconic Triple Bridge near Preseren Square, see the famous dragon statues on Dragon Bridge, take a relaxing boat trip along the Ljubljanica River, and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of Tivoli Park. Top excursions: Travel to nearby Lake Bled to see its island church and mediaeval castle overlooking the lake, surrounded by alpine scenery. You can also visit the Postojna Caves, one of Europe's largest cave systems, renowned for its impressive stalactites and rock formations. Istanbul, Turkey Istanbul bridges Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait, offering a unique blend of cultures and history. The city combines Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage with impressive architecture, bustling markets, and a diverse food scene shaped by its position between continents. Must-see sights: Visit the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and majestic Blue Mosque, explore the opulent chambers of Topkapi Palace, and wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar and fragrant Spice Market. Top excursions: Take a cruise along the Bosphorus to admire stunning views and experience the unique blend of sights on both the European and Asian sides. Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon is renowned for its hills, pastel-coloured buildings, iconic trams, and scenic views over the Tagus River. The city combines a rich maritime history with a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its excellent food and vibrant neighbourhoods. Must-see sights: Discover the iconic Belém Tower and the grand Jerónimos Monastery, wander through Alfama's maze of narrow streets, and hop aboard Tram 28 for a scenic ride through the city's historic districts. Top excursions: Visit the enchanting town of Sintra with its colourful palaces, including the National Palace of Sintra where the Portuguese royal family once spent their summers, along with its lush gardens and forested hills. Rome, Italy Rome was the heart of the Roman Empire and remains a city where history truly comes alive. From awe-inspiring ruins to world-class masterpieces of art, it remains a city rich in heritage and significance. Must-see sights: Marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain, and admire the Pantheon's dome that has stood for nearly two thousand years. Top excursions: Cross into Vatican City, the world's smallest independent country, to gaze up at Michelangelo's masterpiece in St. Peter's Basilica and explore the vast treasures of the Vatican Museums. Reykjavík, Iceland Reykjavík, the northernmost capital, is known for its colourful houses, vibrant arts scene, and rich heritage, blending modern creativity with traditional Icelandic charm. Must-see sights: Visit Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic views, explore the Harpa Concert Hall's modern architecture, and stroll through the Old Harbour area with its cafés and museums. Top excursions: Relax in the Blue Lagoon, take the Golden Circle tour to see Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, experiencing Iceland's natural beauty within a day. A guided city break in Europe is an excellent way to experience the region's history, culture, and everyday life. Whether you choose a major capital or a smaller city, each destination offers something unique, from impressive architecture to vibrant local neighbourhoods. Adding these cities to your travel list will ensure memorable sights and enriching experiences that stay with you long after your trip. Belfast Telegraph Travel in association with Travel Department has been creating expertly guided holidays around the globe for nearly 30 years. With hundreds of destinations to choose from, every holiday includes flights, accommodation, transfers and guided tours led by a local guide. Book your next holiday with Travel Department, where fantastic deals and unforgettable experiences await.
Express Tribune
10-07-2025
- Climate
- Express Tribune
'June was hottest on record in western Europe'
People refresh themselves in the cool water of a fountain in front of the Cathedral at the Lustgarten park on Museum Island in Berlin. PHOTO: AFP Western Europe sweltered through its hottest June on record last month, as "extreme" temperatures blasted the region in punishing back-to-back heatwaves, the EU climate monitor Copernicus said Wednesday. Globally, this past June was the third warmest on record, continuing a blistering heat streak in recent years as the planet warms as a result of humanity's emissions of greenhouse gases. The previous hottest June was in 2024 and the second hottest was in 2023, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said. Sweltering extremes were particularly pronounced in Europe, which is warming several times faster than the global average. Millions of people were exposed to high heat stress across parts of the continent as daily average temperatures in western Europe climbed to levels rarely seen before -- and never so early in the summer. Several countries recorded surface temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, with heat of up to 46C in Spain and Portugal, Copernicus said. Samantha Burgess, the EU monitor's Strategic Lead for Climate, said the impact of the heatwaves in Europe was "exceptional", intensified by record sea surface temperatures in the western Mediterranean — which hit an all-time daily maximum in June. "In a warming world, heatwaves are likely to become more frequent, more intense and impact more people across Europe," she said. The two heatwaves — from June 17 to 22, and again from June 30 to July 2 — were linked to heat domes trapping warm air over affected regions, prolonging the stifling weather, and worsening pollution and wildfire conditions.
