SVALBARD ~ Reindeer ~

... Awesome postcard of a long years postcard wish of mine💙... coming from the northernmost settlement in the world... famous for its pristinely astonishing nature... one of the few remote northern places that are inhabited year-round... Europe’s largest wildlife sanctuary: protected areas constitute 2/3 of the archipelago... the Svalbard Reindeer is an endemic subspecies of reindeer, which lives only in Svalbard and never was domesticated... evolved without predators like wolves, making them curious and unafraid of people, often approaching observers closely.... they eat grasses, mosses, and even seaweed, thriving near glaciers and on lush tundra... Svalbard is considered to be an Arctic desert, due to the low humidity and precipitation... however, it is becoming wetter due to the climate change and has recently recorded 100 months with above average temperatures.. with great Polar bear stamp from Longyearbayen Post Office and very clear unique postmark👍... Svalbard issues its own stamps, often participating in the annual Europa CEPT theme... Thanks a million Loes, Ben and friends for arranging this surprise for me!😚🥰

Photo: Linda Bakken
Svalbard is the name of  a group of islands located in the Arctic ocean halfway between the North pole and Norway. It is a collection of scattered islands administered by Norway since the 1920s. With a total area of 61,022 km2 it is also Europe’s second largest archipelago in the Arctic Circle. Longyearbyen is the archipelago’s capital town.

The largest island is called Spitsbergen, i.e. pointy mountains. It was so named by the Dutch explorer William Barents, the Barents sea guy, who discovered the island in 1596 and did not realise that he had in fact discovered a whole archipelago.

Svalbard has 29 protected natural areas: seven national parks, six sanctuaries, 15 bird sanctuaries, and one geotope protected area. Protections also apply to any newly found traces of human civilization dating before 1946.

 

Stamp:

Polar Bear

(Issued???)

GERMANY ~ Minster Church - Bonn ~

... Nice view of  one of Germany's oldest Catholic churches... built between the 11th and 13th centuries in a mix of both Romanesque and Gothic styles and was restored in 2014... a significant and beautiful landmark... located in  the old town and dominating the square named after it... Bonner Münster remains an active place of worship with daily services and special liturgical events throughout year... tourists can also visit it to explore its rich history or simply admire its architectural beauty... a small museum located within premises provides insights into church’s past through various artifacts... climb up the steeple where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city... with lovely Christmas stamp and special postmark... Thanks a lot Dustin! (•‿•)

Bonner Münster holds an important place in German religious history. It was built on the graves of two Roman legionaries – Cassius and Florentius – who were executed for their Christian faith during the reign of Julian Apostate around AD 362. Their remains have been preserved under the altar area making it a significant pilgrimage site since medieval times

Bonn is located on the banks of the Rhine in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The city served as the capital of West Germany from 1949 until 1990 and was the seat of government for reunified Germany until 1999, when the government relocated to Berlin.

The city holds historical significance as the birthplace of Germany's current constitution, the Basic Law.
 

Stamp:

Christmas - Church Window 

(Issued 03-11-2025)

NEW ZEALAND ~ Mirror Lakes - Fiordland National Park - UNESCO ~

...  A great sunrise view... the lakes are famous for their still, reflective water known for creating spectacular mirror-like reflections of the Earl Mountains... one of new zealand's most iconic natural attractions... a visit to the Mirror Lakes involves walking along a wooden boardwalk dotted with viewing platforms... the view from the wooden platforms is pretty awesome and you have the opportunity to spot native birds... the Mirror Lakes are safeguarded by international regulations and are part of the global network of Protected Sites...Thanks a lot Susan! (✿◠‿◠)

Fiordland National Park is over 1.2 million hectares in size (one of the largest National parks in New Zealand and one of the largest in the world) located on the South Island and was established in 1952. Mirror Lakes is the first lake you’ll reach when heading north from Te Anau along the Milford Road.

Te Wahipounamu (Māori for "the place of greenstone") was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1990 and covering 26,000 km², the site incorporates four national parks: Aoraki/Mt Cook, Fiordland,Mt Aspiring and Westland National Park.
 

Stamp:

Christmas 

(Issued 01-10-2025)

GERMANY ~ Luisium Park - Dessau - UNESCO ~

... Nice autumn🍂 view of a picturesque, peaceful park with a small palace built for Prince Franz's wife, surrounded by a 14-hectare English landscape... scattered with neo-Gothic and classical ornamental buildings together with fountains, grottoes, constructed ruins and sculptures... characterized by the wide visual axes with ancient solitary oaks.... until well into the 19th century, one part was used for strolling and pleasure and the other was used by the court gardener for fruit and vegetable cultivation... with a lovely stamp and cute special postmark👍... Thanks Dustin!ヽ(ヅ)ノ

Photo: Sebastian Kaps
The Garden Kingdom was created by Leopold III Friedrich Frank, Prince of Anhalt-Dessau (1740–1817), Between 1774 and 1778, the  prince had the small Luisium country house built as a private residence for his wife Louise. The princess loved the tranquility of the place, which has borne her name since 1780.

It is a part of Dessau-Wörlitz Garden Realm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
 

Stamp:

Returning Wildlife

(Issued 07-09-2025)

BERMUDA ~ Horseshoe Bay - Southampton Parish ~

... Pretty view of the crown jewel of Bermuda’s beaches⛱️🌞 🌊... with its famous pink sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic rock formations, it’s no wonder this beach consistently ranks among the best in the world... the sand gets its unique light pink hue from crushed coral and shell particles... it’s pillow-soft, fine, and perfect for strolling barefoot... the clear, turquoise water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling... walk down the beach to find the dramatic limestone cliffs formations elevated with picturesque greenery... a must-visit for anyone traveling to the island... but being one of the most popular beaches on the island, it can get busy during peak season... Thanks a lot Diego! (✿ ♥‿♥) especially for thinking of me while on vacation!

Photo: Bob Reardon
Horseshoe Bay is located on the South Shore of Bermuda's main island in Southampton Parish.

It was named Horseshoe Bay for its distinctive, curved shoreline that resembles a horseshoe. This shape was naturally carved over millennia by wave erosion of the island's limestone bedrock into a cove with a curved shoreline.

Stamps:

Reflections of Bermuda 

(Issued 20-07-2023)

Fauna - Backyard Birds

(Issued 21-09-2023)

GERMANY ~Bauhaus Museum - Dessau - UNESCO ~

... And this postcard is an image of the Bauhaus Museum😉... to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the Bauhaus in 2019, the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation inaugurated a new museum showcasing its massive collections... the Bauhaus collection is here in its entirety for the first time... the exhibition displays over 1,000 artefacts, which is made up of around 50,000 objects in total, making it the second largest Bauhaus collection worldwide... the museum features a suspended concrete "cube" within a glass exterior, with the ground floor offering public space and temporary exhibitions... the upper floor is devoted to the permanent collection...  Thanks a lot Dustin!(✿◠‿◠)

The Bauhaus Museum Dessau is a building within a building – a bar of concrete that appears to be suspended in mid-air, encased within a glass shell. In an open international competition with 831 entries submitted from all over the world, the jury selected the concept proposed by Addenda Architects, a young architectural office in Barcelona, at the end of 2015. The design stands out due to its clarity and simplicity.The outer shell of the museum consists of a glass façade on all four sides.

The museum building is located within the UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the original Bauhaus building and Masters' Houses.

Stamp:

Personalities - Udo Jurgens, 1934-2014 

(04-09-2025)

GERMANY ~ Bauhaus - Dessau - UNESCO ~

... Postcard showing the iconic Bauhaus main building... designed by Walter Gropius, this modern campus was the second location of the influential art and design school... the school became famous for its revolutionary approach to design, focusing on functionality and uniting art, design and architecture... made out of concrete, glass and steel it is a landmark of the 20th-century Classical Modernism... the main Bauhaus building is a true representation of what the movement stands... this building also houses the Bauhaus Dessau Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the Bauhaus legacy... Thanks Dustin!【ツ】

Founded in Weimar in 1919, it moved to Dessau in 1925 and was forced to close in Berlin by the National Socialists in 1933, the Bauhaus existed for only 14 years. Nevertheless, the famous university of design wrote history, stands for Made in Germany, and provides important stimuli and impulses to questions of the present.

Since 1996, the Bauhaus building and the seven Master Houses in Dessau have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with the Bauhaus building in Weimar. The Houses with Balcony Access, built under the direction of the second Bauhaus Director Hannes Meyer, joined the list of World Heritage Sites in Dessau in 2017.

 

Stamp:

Treasures of Philately - Saxony - Threesome

(Issued 04-09-2025)  

RUSSIA ~ Wrangel Island - UNESCO ~

... Great nature view of a remote island tucked away high above the Arctic Circle... Wrangel Island is  part of the Russia’s Far East... a place of paradoxes—both a harsh, isolated landscape and a cradle of life... one of the most remarkable Arctic nature reserves...  a critical Arctic ecosystem, home to species found nowhere else... best known for being the last refuge of the woolly mammoth... while most mammoth populations disappeared from the mainland around 10,000 years ago, a small group managed to survive on Wrangel until about 4,000 years ago... but even though Wrangel is remote, it is not safe from modern threats... the warming of the Arctic is opening new shipping routes near the island... more ships could mean more pollution, more noise, and more problems for wildlife... Russian leaders have even suggested loosening environmental rules so that military training could take place on the island... these developments worry both scientists and environmentalists... Thanks a lot Oleg!ヽ(ヅ)ノ

Wrangel Island is located in the Arctic Ocean, between the Chukchi Sea and the East Siberian Sea. It is part of Russia’s Chukotka region and covers about 7,600 square kilometres.

The island boasts the world’s largest population of Pacific walruses and the highest density of polar bear dens. It is a major feeding ground for the grey whale migrating from Mexico and the northernmost nesting ground for 100 migratory bird species, many endangered. Currently, 417 species and subspecies of vascular plants have been identified on the island, double that of any other Arctic tundra territory of comparable size and more than any other Arctic island.

To protect this fragile environment, the Soviet Union declared Wrangel Island a nature reserve in 1976. In 2004, the Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Stamps:

Definitives - Eagles

(Issued 04-08-2019)

Towns of Soldierly Glory

(Issued 30-04-2010)

80th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations with the Dominican Republic

(Issued 22-07-2025)

100th Anniversary of the Artek International Children's Center 

(Issued 16-06-2025)

SWITZERLAND ~Abbey Library of St. Gall - UNESCO ~

... Beautiful library view known as one of the oldest and most important in the world... founded in the 8th century with roots in the Middle Ages... the current building, with its famous Baroque hall, was built in 1767 and replaced an earlier structure... the interior is known for its ornate decorations, including carved cherubs, angels, and frescoes... it is part of the Abbey of St. Gallen... the collection comprises approximately 160,000 books and 2,000 manuscripts, many of them are from the medieval period... including numerous treasures... the most spectacular of these is a giant globe... this library was the inspiration for the library in Umberto Eco's novel The Name of the Rose... Thanks Stefan!【ツ】

Photo: Urs Anderegg
The Abbey of Saint Gall is located in St. Gallen in the northeastern part of Switzerland.  The Abbey was founded in 719 AD by Abbot Otmar. The foundation occurred on the site where the Irish monk Saint Gall had built a hermitage around 612 AD. Initially a monastic community, it later became a Benedictine abbey. 

The entire Abbey complex, including the library, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

 

Stamps:

Coins - Supplementary Stamps

(01-01-2022)

Definitives - Natural Patterns

(Issued 07-03-2024)

NETHERLANDS ~ Frederiksoord - Drenthe - UNESCO ~

... Nice views of a unique and important piece of Dutch history... not really a spectacular site but the story behind it is very interesting...  Frederiksoord was where it all began back in 1818, the oldest of all the colonies and an integral part of benevolent colonial history... it has an area of 310 ha... the basic idea behind the Colonies of Benevolence, located in Drenthe, Overijssel and Flanders, was to provide a way for low-income city dwellers to move to remote parts of the country and work the land to reduce poverty... this physical work would, they believed, create a moral, ideal community, with industrious, self-reliant citizens...  there is an interesting museum "De Proefkolonie" explaining the philosophy behind the Colonies of Benevolence as well as looking at life in the colony... the pretty houses built for employees and workers still stand in neat rows on a grid pattern of roads... also the church and the post office... many visitors enjoy either walking or cycling along the roads of the colony... you can also board the Kolonie Express and explore the streets, schools, and gardens in an electric vehicle... with great matching UNESCO stamp issued by the museum!👍Thanks a lot Jarina!! (✿◠‿◠)

Colonies of Benevolence are four villages that were founded by the Society of Benevolence in the beginning of the 19th century as part of a planned effort to reduce urban poverty. It was a unique and highly successful social experiment designed in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. By mid-1800, more than 11,000 people called these landscapes home and were striving to better their lives.

The four colonies in this group are Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord and Veenhuizen in the Netherlands and Wortel in Belgium. 

In July 2021, five of the colonies were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. 

Stamps:

Provinces of Netherlands: Friesland 

(Issued 12-02002)

Provinces of Netherlands: Drenthe

(Issued 26-03-2002)

RWANDA ~ Golden Monkey - Nyungwe National Park - UNESCO ~

... Great view of a Golden Monkey, a type of monkey species of Old World monkeys and endemic to Nyungwe forest... these monkeys are one of the 13 primate species found in Nyungwe, alongside more common species like chimpanzees and various colobus monkeys... they inhabited the forest's mid-altitude zones especially highlands and near to bamboo, between 1500 and 2000 meters... a small, estimated population of 300+ golden monkeys resides in Nyungwe... considered to be one of the rarest primates in the forest... though sightings are less frequent here than in parks like Volcanoes National Park... one of the park's most thrilling experiences is the forest canopy walkway... a 160 meter long walkway suspended between giant trees, 60 metres above the forest floor... the walkway offers incredible views of the forest's upper canopies and is a great opportunity to spot wildlife and birds... Thanks a lot Amelia! (✿◠‿◠)

Nyungwe National Park is located on the shores of Lake Kivu in the Albertine Rift Valley in south-western Rwanda bordering Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Park has existed since 1903 and was designated a national park in 2004.  

With 1,019 km² of dense Afromontane forests, bamboo-covered slopes, grasslands, ponds, swamps and heaths, Nyungwe National Park is one of the oldest surviving tropical rainforests in Africa providing habitats to a highly diverse flora and fauna.

Nyungwe National Park has been inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List, becoming the country's first site in 2023. 

 

Stamp: 

Folklore 

(Issued 15-11-2010)

GERMANY ~ Bonn ~

... Plenty of lovely views of a small interesting city... the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, one of the world’s most renowned composers... it offers a rich mix of culture, history, and natural beauty... home to an impressive collection of museums, many of which are located along its famous "Museum Mile"... this is a stretch of cultural institutions that showcase everything from contemporary art to natural history... it's one of Europe’s largest museum networks with five museums located in close proximity to one another... and the home of Haribo, the famous confectionery company known for its gummy bears🧸... Thanks Dustin!【ツ】

Bonn is located on the banks of the Rhine in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The city served as the capital of West Germany from 1949 until 1990 and was the seat of government for reunified Germany until 1999, when the government relocated to Berlin. The city holds historical significance as the birthplace of Germany's current constitution, the Basic Law.

 

Stamp:

Semperoper

(Issued 02-10-2025)

USA ~ United Nations - New York ~

... Impressive sunset view of the UN Headquarters... standing on the eastern shore of Manhattan Island, on the banks of the East River, the UN Headquarters remains both a symbol of peace and a beacon of hope... a iconic global hub for diplomacy, where 193 nations convene to shape international policy and foster peace... guided tours are available and highly recommended for gaining insight into the UN's history and work... get a chance to see, hear, and feel the UN in action... visit the iconic halls like the General Assembly, Security Council Chamber and the impressive collection of art and artifacts, including a piece of the Berlin Wall and the "Non-Violence" sculpture... approximately one million people visit the UN Headquarters annually... Thanks a lot Paul! (✿◠‿◠) Must have a very interesting place to visit...

Only the United Nations is permitted to issue postage stamps, even though it is an organization and not a country or a territory. Today the United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) is the only postal authority that issues stamps in three different currencies: U.S. dollars, Swiss francs and euros. Unfortunately the stamps are not cancelled😔... 

The headquarters of the United Nations is a distinctive complex in New York City, that has served as the official headquarters of the UN since its completion in 1952.  

The buildings are the 39-storey Secretariat (right) the General Assembly (centre), the Council Chambers and Conference Rooms (at the river's edge) and the Dag Hammarskjold Library (foreground)

Officially an international territory, the Headquarters is technically not part of the United States and has been described as "a little city of all nations." 

The United Nation was formed in the year 1945 after the Second World War and in 1947 the current United Nations Flag was for the first time officially effective. There are 3 other additional, subsidiary, regional headquarters in Geneva (Switzerland), Vienna (Austria), and Nairobi (Kenya). 

Stamps:

Postage Stamps

(Issued 07-04-1993)

International Women's Day

(Issued 08-03-2025)

MALAWI ~ Kasungu National Park ~

... Great new African National Park to add to my collection💚...  the landscape consists of woodland and bush, grassland and low-rising hills, small lakes and wide marshy areas with rampant rivers in the rainy season... the park was once home to around 1,200 elephants in the 1970s but rampant poaching over the years reduced the population to a mere 49 by 2015... the International Fund for Animal Welfare has been working in Kasungu since 2015 to address law enforcement, wildlife crime, infrastructure and capacity within the park... by reducing poaching in the park, the elephant population has grown to an estimated 120 individuals... in 2022, 263 elephants were moved from Liwonde National Park  to the much larger Kasungu Park... while the move sounded like a good idea on paper, the elephants' new home was not fenced... immediately, they began wandering out of the park - destroying property, eating crops and killing people in both Malawi and Zambia... several years later, this terrible situation is still not resolved...  so time has proved that translocating wild elephants isn't always the best option... Thanks Emmanuel!【ツ】

Kasungu stretches along the Zambian border and is Malawi’s second largest national park covering approximately 2,000 square kilometres. (which is four times the size of Liwonde National Park). It is located in the central region and rises about 1000 meters above sea level and was established in 1970.

 

Stamps:

Butterfly

Malawi Wildlife

INDONESIA ~ Padar Island - Komodo National Park ~

... Amazing nature view of one of the hidden gems in Komodo National Park... located in the heart the park it offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Indonesia... from its hilltops, you’ll be treated by breathtaking viewpoints... stunning panoramas of rolling hills and famous beaches in shades of white, black, and pink... this is thanks to the unique coral fragments that make up the sand... lush greenery, and clear blue skies that stretch endlessly... this island is not only a visual feast but also an adventurous playground for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts... Padar is a serene escape, offering visitors a glimpse into the raw and unspoiled beauty of nature... Thanks a lot Dian!ヽ(ヅ)ノ

Photo: Aqib Widayatno
Komodo National Park is located within the Lesser Sunda Islands. The park includes the three larger islands Komodo, Padar and Rinca, and 26 smaller ones, with a total area of 1,733 km². The national park was founded in 1980 to protect the Komodo dragon, endemic to the park's islands and the coast of western Flores and the park's diverse marine life, including coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and manta rays. 

In 1991 the national park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1986.

 

Stamp:

Republic Day - Banknotes 

(Issued 30-10-2023)

JORDAN ~ Aqaba - UNESCO tentative list ~

... Nice views of Jordan’s only port city nestled on the shores of the Red Sea... a hidden gem that combines stunning natural beauty, historical significance, and modern facilities...  it’s well known for its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and the warm, welcoming hospitality of its people... the city boasts some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Red Sea... including the Yamanieh coral reefs in the Aqaba Marine Park... in addition to the Islamic-era Aqaba Fortress, there are other historical sites around the city, including ancient ruins and remnants of old trading posts... the Jordanian Flagpole in Aqaba is one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, standing at 130 meters... it’s a symbol of national pride and a prominent landmark... Aqaba and its surrounding areas offer several hiking and nature trails... a popular destination for both locals and tourists... Thanks a lot Esram!【ツ】

Aqaba is situated at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba, it borders Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. The city has a rich history that dating back to 4,000 BC. The ancient Egyptians, Romans, and even the Nabateans, who built the famous city of Petra, lived in or passed through here. In the 7th century, Aqaba became an important Islamic port. During World War I, this city was the site of a significant battle when Arab forces, led by T.E. Lawrence, captured it from the Ottoman Empire.

Aqaba Marine Reserve was submitted in 2023 to the UNESCO Tentative List. 

Stamps: 

The 150th Anniversary of the UPU - Universal Postal Union

(Issued 09-10-2024)

National Dresses

(Issued 28-12-2015)

GERMANY ~ Neuschwanstein Castle - Bavaria - UNESCO ~

... Wonderful view of one of the most famous castles in the world🏰... an iconic architectural marvel... nestled away in the breathtaking Bavarian Alps... a magnificent sight that lives up to its "fairytale" reputation... it was constructed as a private summer retreat born straight from King Ludwig II imagination, not for defense but just for pleasure... and in honour of his friend composer Richard Wagner... however, the king never got to enjoy it... he mysteriously died by drowning in nearby Lake Starnberg... in addition to its strange origins, the castle is a wonder... there are turrets and even flush toilets and a form of central heating... Neuschwanstein is extremely popular, with over a million visitors annually... in the summer around 6,000 visitors a day stream through rooms that were intended for a single inhabitant😲... tours take crowds of visitors through the apartments and staterooms on the third and fourth floors... the second floor was never finished and houses a shop, cafeteria and a multimedia room...Thanks Marion! ✿◕ ‿ ◕✿

Photo: Mathias Struck
Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19thC Romanesque Revival palace located in southwest Bavaria. King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned the castle in 1868, just two years after Austria and Bavaria were conquered by Prussia during the Austro-Prussian War (sometimes called the Seven Weeks’ War), effectively stripping Ludwig II of his powers. He died in 1886, and the final towers weren’t completed until 1892. Seven weeks after the death of King Ludwig II in 1886, Neuschwanstein was opened to the public. 

Neuschwanstein means “New Swan Stone”. The name of the castle derives from one of Wagner’s opera character, the Swan Knight.The swan is a central motif in the castle's design

The Castle was designated a UNESCO WHS site in 2025, as part of a serial property that also includes three other castles built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria: Linderhof, Herrenchiemsee, and Schachen.

Stamps:

The 450th Anniversary of the Augsburg Peace 

(Issued 08-09-2005)

Castles of Germany - Ludwigsburg

(Issued 09-02-2017)

CHINA ~ Cultural Landscape of Old Tea Forests of the Jingmai Mountain in Pu’er - UNESCO ~

... Nice view of the entrance of the Old Tea Forests... this site covers an ancient tea production area deeply connected to the Blang and Dai ethnic groups, who have cultivated the tea forests for over a thousand years using traditional, sustainable methods... the forests are a "nature museum of tea" with some trees being hundreds of years old and they are allowed to grow to their natural size, rather than being pruned to a uniform height, which is the case in most tea production... they are cultivated in a way that preserves biodiversity, with tea trees growing in harmony with the natural forest... visitors can hike through the ancient forests, visit traditional villages and learn about tea production from locals, participate in tea ceremonies and enjoy panoramic views... today, tea is a popular product that generates substantial income for local people... Thanks Lu!ヽ(ヅ)ノ

This heritage site consists of five old tea forests covering an area of 1,180 hectares. It includes nine ancient villages with a population of about 5,000 people and is surrounded by approximately 10 other villages inhabited by various ethnic groups. 

This Cultural Landscape of Old Tea Forests site became a UNESCO  WHS site  in 2023.
 

Stamps:

Science and Technology Industries 

(Issued 01-12-2023)

125th Anniversary of Universal Postal Union 

(Issued 07-09-1999)  
 

Taihung Mountains 

(Issued 009-2023)

POLAND ~ Muskauer Park - UNESCO ~

... Nice view of the new castle surrounded by an extensive English-style landscape park... Herman von Pückler’s park was designed to illustrate an ideal connection between nature, culture, technique and spirit... one of the most beautiful and largest landscaped gardens in Europe... the park straddles the border, with the Neisse River running through it and connecting the two countries... it is made up of a number of smaller parks on either side of the German-Polish border, each with its own character.... the New Castle in neo-Renaissance style is a central point in the park, and its grounds include a permanent exhibition about the life of Prince Pückler-Muskau... it is a popular destination to explore a large, beautifully designed natural space that spans two countries... Thanks Sylwia! (✿◠‿◠)

Photo: Tomasz
Muskauer Park  is a landscape garden initially developed between 1815 and 1844 by Prince Hermann von Pückler-Muskau on the grounds of his estate, and continued by his student, Eduard Petzold. The whole park consists of around 728 ha of which 522 belongs to Poland.

It is believed that there was a water castle until the 15th century when the complex was extended. In the 16th century, the property turned from medieval fortification to representative castle. Prince Pueckler planned to heavily redesign the castle, he removed fortress walls, bridges, and the moat. As money ran out, the new owner, Prince Wilhelm Friedrich Karl von Oranien-Nassau took over and rebuild the baroque castle in the neo-renaissance style.

In 2004, Muskau Park was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

 

Stamps:

Cities of Poland - Leszno 

(Issued 17-01-2020)

3X Marshals of the Second Polish Parliament 

(Issued 11-11-2020)

Spiżarnia Caritas

(Issued 15-03-2023)

MALAWI ~ Mulanje Mountain - UNESCO~

... Great view of a spectacular mountain range... known as "the island in the sky" for its dramatic rise from the surrounding plains... for centuries, Mount Mulanje has been a sacred site for the Mang’anja, Yao, and Lomwe peoples... inhabited by gods, spirits, and ancestors, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance... sites across the massif such as its peaks, springs and caves continue to serve as venues for traditional rites and rituals, marking Mulanje a vibrant example of living heritage... beyond its cultural relevance, Mulanje offers some of Africa’s most breathtaking natural scenery... home to unique ecosystems with a variety of endemic plant and animal species... a paradise for hikers, offering a wide range of trails that vary in difficulty... Thanks a lot Emmanuel! (✿◠‿◠)

Mount Mulanje is a large massif in southern Malawi spreading over 650 square kilometers. The highest point is Sapitwa Peak, at 3,002 meters. The massif includes at least 20 other peaks that are over 2,500 meters high and falls within the Mount Mulanje Biosphere Reserve.

Its biodiversity is exceptional: home to the critically endangered Mulanje cedar (Malawi’s national tree) and numerous endemic species such as the Mulanje dwarf gecko, pygmy chameleon, and striped-greenbul bird.

Mount Mulanje was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Mount Mulanje Cultural Landscape in 2025.

Stamps:

Traditional Dances 

(Issued 12-07-2013)
 

Fauna - The Big Five

(Issued 03-11-2011)

2X Butterfly

Malawi Wildlife

Christmas

(Issued 24-12-2014)

GERMANY ~ The Berlin Modernism Housing Estates - UNESCO ~

... Nice views of a group of six apartment complexes spread throughout the city... they  are considered Berlin's most important contribution to international architectural history... the Berlin Modernism Housing Estates represent low-income housing architecture from the early 20th century.... these residential complexes had three things that were new: light, fresh air and communal green spaces... many estates included shared facilities like kindergartens, schools, and shops to foster a sense of community... a century later and they are still happily being used... the basic structures are unchanged and show how durable the buildings are, both physically but also socially... Thanks Marcel!【ツ】

"Gartenstadt Falkenberg - Siedlung Schillerpark - Hufeisensiedlung - Wohnstadt Carl Legien - Siemensstadt - Weiße Stadt"
The Berlin Modernism Housing Estates are built between 1910 and 1933, representing innovative housing policies of the Weimar Republic. Walter Gropius, Mies van der Rohe, Bruno Taut, Hugo Häring, Franz Hillinger – prominent, well-known architects of the time – designed the housing estates.  

In 2008, these six Berlin housing estates were jointly declared a UNESCO WHS known as "Berlin Modernism Housing Estates".

Stamps:

At Home in Germany - German Inventions

(Issued 13-10-2011)

50th Anniversary of Sports Charity Stamps 

(Issued 11-02017)

CANADA ~ Humpback Whale - Ucluelet - Vancouver Island ~

... Wonderful postcard showing the "gentle giants of the ocean"🩵... the largest whale to spot on the island... a Humpback whale "fluking"... when a whale wishes to dive it lifts its tail into the air in a movement called fluking.... they can be seen during summer months anywhere along the coast... whether it's from the deck of a tour boat, the side of your sea kayak, or a seaside trail... seeing one of the most majestic and fascinating creatures in the wild must be an unforgettable experience... the good news is that recent sightings have become more frequent as their populations has been increasing... Ucluelet is an outdoor paradise and ecotourism-focused village... Big Thanks Glenn!(✿ ♥‿♥)  It is always a great pleasure to receive a new whale card for my collection!👍

Artist: Brian Congdon
Ucluelet is situated on the west coast of the Pacific Ocean on Vancouver Island and is positioned around the famous Pacific Rim National Park. The name Ucluelet means "people with a safe place to land" and it originated from the local First Nations people.

The history of Ucluelet starts in 1787 when maritime traders, such as the famous captain of Imperial Eagle, Charles William Barkley, arrive in Barkley sound. Back then, sea otter pelts were in great demand. After some time, around 1870, a fur trader who owned plenty of ships decided to establish a trading post in Ucluelet. With this development, new people moved there and just after 20 years, in 1890, Ucluelet became a town.
 

Stamps:

From a set of 3:

Truth and Reconciliation 

(Issued 27-09-2024)

SPAIN ~ Royal Alcázar - Seville - Andalusia - UNESCO ~

... Lovely architectural detail of Europe's oldest royal palace, with a history spanning over a thousand years... a blend of Christian and Islamic styles... one of the best examples of Mudéjar architecture in the world with intricate tilework, geometric patterns, and elegant arches.... with myriad rooms, extravagant architecture, lavish gardens with many courtyards, ponds and secrets waiting to be discovered... today, Real Alcázar de Sevilla remains one of the few historic palaces across Europe still in use... the upper floor is still inhabited by the Spanish royal family when they come to visit Sevilla... the Alcázar is a stunning testament to Spain’s rich history, a place where art, architecture, and culture converge... a fascinating and amazing place to visit... Thanks a lot Josep & Assumpta! (✿ ♥‿♥) 

Seville is the capital of southern Spain's Andalusia region.

Originally constructed by Muslim kings in the 10th century, the Alcázar has been expanded and renovated over the centuries, influenced by both Christian and Moorish architecture. Its intricate blend of styles reflects Seville’s history as a crossroads of cultures, where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences have shaped its unique design. From its origins as a fortress to its transformation into a royal residence.

The name Alcázar goes back to the Arab word ‘el qasr’ which refers to a fortified palace.

Since 1987, the palace has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the adjacent Seville Cathedral.

Photo: MIGUEL A. GOMEZ

 

Stamp:

Museums 

(Issued 27-03-2025)

USA ~ Park Square - Pittsfield - Massachusetts ~

... Nice view of the historic city center from a painting by Regi Klein... she was an American artist born in 1931 who passed away in 2006... known for her paintings influenced by 19th-century folk art... a charming town nestled in the heart of the Berkshires... with rich history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural beauty... named in honor of the British Statesman, Sir Wm Pitt... once America's first agricultural fair, the Square is now notable for its surrounding architecture beauty and the popular ever-present antique Popcorn Wagon a well known landmark... Thanks a lot dear Andrene! ♥(ˆ⌣ˆԅ)

©Regi Klein
Pittsfield is the biggest city and the county seat of Berkshire County, Massachusetts. The city's history began as hunting grounds for Native Americans, the area was originally inhabited by the Mohegan. 

The town was first settled by Europeans starting around 1753, when settlers from nearby Westfield began making progress on the land. In 1791 Pittsfield was incorporated as a city.  

 

Stamps:

Printing Pres

Issued 13-11-1975)

Flowers 

(Issued 24-02022)

(Issued 18-07-2024)

Love

(Issued 30-01-1987)

NEPAL ~ Chitwan National Park - UNESCO ~

... Great new National Park postcard💚... in spite of having the highest mountains in the world with vast snowfields and glaciers, and relatively little flat land, Nepal also has stretches of lush tropical jungle...  a unique mix of subtropical lowland ecosystems, including riverine forests, grasslands, and hills.. it's here, on the flat lowlands adjoining northern India, called the Terrai, that this elephant🐘 takes his bath... activities include jungle safaris (by jeep, canoe, or on foot)... a jungle trek takes you through the park, walking through varied landscapes and past traditional Tharu villages... the indigenous Tharu people have lived there for centuries... along the way you will come face to face with unspoilt nature and have plenty of opportunities to spot wild animals... they also offer jungle tours where you can explore the wilderness on the back of an elephant... it sounds like a great adventure, but think carefully about whether you really want to ride an elephant, as it is not exactly an animal-friendly outing😔...  Thanks a lot Boris! (✿◠‿◠)

Photo: Dorothy Mierow
Chitwan National Park is the first national park of Nepal. It was established in 1973 and  covers an area of 952.63 km2 in the Terai of south-central Nepal. A total of 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, 56 species of herpetofauna and 126 species of fish have been recorded in the park. The park is especially renowned for its protection of One Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger and Gharial Crocodile.

The name "Chitwan" translates to "heart of the jungle".

In 1984, Chitwan National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Stamp:

Mount Cho-Oyu 

(09-10-2014)