London's magnificent Westminster Abbey was consecrated on this day, December 28, in 1065. King Edward the Confessor, who had the church built, died a few days later. He was the first of many English monarchs buried there.

Over the next couple centuries, the church saw many changes and additions. The soaring western towers were completed in the 1200s, and today Westminster Abbey is considered one of the world's most famous examples of Gothic architecture.

^{Westminster Abbey Photo © Andrew Holt/Getty Images}

December 27, 1932 was the grand opening of Radio City Music Hall in New York City.

Prominent architect Raymond Hood designed the magnificent concert center, and today Radio City Music Hall is one of America's favorite examples of Art Deco architecture.

_{Radio City Music Hall Photo © Jackie Craven}

December 26 is the first day of Kwanzaa, an African-American and Pan-American holiday that celebrates the creativity of African cultures. Now through January 1 is a special time of festivals, performances, and art exhibitions.

To celebrate, join us for a photo tour of architectural wonders from Africa.

• Timbuktu in Mali, West Africa
• West African Adobe Mud Architecture
• Royal Tombs of Aksum

^{Timbuktu in Mali, West Africa. Press photo © 2000-2006 NewOpenWorld Foundation}

This time of year, so many charities send out requests for contributions, and it's hard to know which which to choose. Over the years, I've selected a half dozen Emergency Relief Organizations that do especially wonderful work rebuilding homes and communities after floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.

Have I left out an important organization for disaster relief? To add your favorites, click the "comments" link below.