Highways in Taipei, Taiwan

© Tavarius/Shutterstoc

To the infinite and back. Infinity Day

This looping highway in Taipei bears a resemblance to the symbol of infinity—the concept of something without ends or limits that is celebrated today. Infinity Day is held on the eighth day of the eighth month, a nod to the symbol's likeness to a sideways figure-of-eight. Established in 1987 by a New York-based philosopher, Jean-Pierre Ady Fenyo, the day celebrates freedom of thinking in its various forms, from philosophy through the arts and sciences. The symbol itself has a much longer history. English mathematician John Wallis is credited with introducing it as a mathematical symbol in 1655. The philosophical concept of infinity dates back at least as far as ancient Greece.

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, was founded in the 18th century. The city might seem remote due to its location at the northern tip of the island, but Taipei's industrial activity encouraged the construction of impressive highways and public transport systems. Its green areas and nature preserves are equally remarkable, creating an extraordinary aerial view of the parks and roads in surprising shapes.