It may feel like spring has been here for a while, what with daffodils popping up all over the place, but today is officially the first day of spring, otherwise known as the Spring Equinox. It marks the point when the planet is tilted neither towards nor away from the sun. This means that there are 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.
The equinox has been marked for millennia, so how are different cultures celebrating it?
Mexico
Chichen Itza, the ancient city which was constructed by the Mayans, draws thousands of visitors for the equinoxes each year.
The iconic ruins have several architectural points of interest. During the equinox, the northwest corner of the pyramid casts a shadow down the stairs of the structure – creating a serpent-like shape.
Archaeologists have said there is no evidence to show that the Mayans did this on purpose, but the feature still draws visitors from far and wide.
Turkey
For many countries in the Middle East, the Spring Equinox marks the start of the Persian New Year – known as Nowruz.
It is observed principally in Iran, but many other countries including Turkey, Georgia, Syria and Albania all mark the occasion.
Stonehenge, UK
The equinoxes – like the solstices – are an important part of Pagan and Druid tradition.
Every year, believers make their way to Stonehenge in Wiltshire to watch the sun come up over the ancient landmark.
(Images: wikipedia.org, satanoid, Wigulf)
