My UNESCO World Heritage Postcards

Philippines - The Hudhud Chants of the Ifugao - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2012-01-30T03:05:00.000-08:00

"The Hudhud consists of narrative chants traditionally performed by the Ifugao community, which is well known for its rice terraces extending over the highlands of the northern island of the Philippine archipelago. It is practised during the rice sowing season, at harvest time and at funeral wakes and rituals. Thought to have originated before the seventh century, the Hudhud comprises more than 200 chants, each divided into 40 episodes. A complete recitation may last several days. Since the Ifugao’s culture is matrilineal, the wife generally takes the main part in the chants, and her brother occupies a higher position than her husband. The language of the stories abounds in figurative expressions and repetitions and employs metonymy, metaphor and onomatopoeia, rendering transcription very difficult. Thus, there are very few written expressions of this tradition. The chant tells about ancestral heroes, customary law, religious beliefs and traditional practices, and reflects the importance of rice cultivation. The narrators, mainly elderly women, hold a key position in the community, both as historians and preachers. The Hudhud epic is chanted alternately by the first narrator and a choir, employing a single melody for all the verses. The conversion of the Ifugao to Catholicism has weakened their traditional culture. Furthermore, the Hudhud is linked to the manual harvesting of rice, which is now mechanized. Although the rice terraces are listed as a World Heritage Site, the number of growers has been in constant decline.The few remaining narrators, who are already very old, need to be supported in their efforts to transmit their knowledge and to raise awareness among young people." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

Infugao Dance. Thanks to Michael of Luxembourg who mailed from Philippines on January 13, 2012 and arrived in Penang on January 30, 2012.

Malaysia - Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca

2012-01-30T02:37:00.000-08:00

"Melaka and George Town, historic cities of the Straits of Malacca have developed over 500 years of trading and cultural exchanges between East and West in the Straits of Malacca. The influences of Asia and Europe have endowed the towns with a specific multicultural heritage that is both tangible and intangible. With its government buildings, churches, squares and fortifications, Melaka demonstrates the early stages of this history originating in the 15th-century Malay sultanate and the Portuguese and Dutch periods beginning in the early 16th century. Featuring residential and commercial buildings, George Town represents the British era from the end of the 18th century. The two towns constitute a unique architectural and cultural townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.

Melaka and George Town, Malaysia, are remarkable examples of historic colonial towns on the Straits of Malacca that demonstrate a succession of historical and cultural influences arising from their former function as trading ports linking East and West. These are the most complete surviving historic city centres on the Straits of Malacca with a multi-cultural living heritage originating from the trade routes from Great Britain and Europe through the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent and the Malay Archipelago to China. Both towns bear testimony to a living multi-cultural heritage and tradition of Asia, where the many religions and cultures met and coexisted. They reflect the coming together of cultural elements from the Malay Archipelago, India and China with those of Europe, to create a unique architecture, culture and townscape.

Melaka and George Town represent exceptional examples of multi-cultural trading towns in East and Southeast Asia, forged from the mercantile and exchanges of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures and three successive European colonial powers for almost 500 years, each with its imprints on the architecture and urban form, technology and monumental art. Both towns show different stages of development and the successive changes over a long span of time and are thus complementary.

Melaka and George Town are living testimony to the multi-cultural heritage and tradition of Asia, and European colonial influences. This multi-cultural tangible and intangible heritage is expressed in the great variety of religious buildings of different faiths, ethnic quarters, the many languages, worship and religious festivals, dances, costumes, art and music, food, and daily life.

Melaka and George Town reflect a mixture of influences which have created a unique architec¬ture, culture and townscape without parallel anywhere in East and South Asia. In particular, they demonstrate an exceptional range of shophouses and townhouses. These buildings show many different types and stages of development of the building type, some originating in the Dutch or Portuguese periods.

The integrity of the nominated areas in both towns is related to the presence of all the elements necessary to express their Outstanding Universal Value. The properties have retained their authenticity; listed monuments and sites have been restored with appropriate treatments regarding design, materials, methodologies, techniques and workmanship, in accordance with conservation guidelines and principles." Source: UNESCO World Heritage.

Postcard 1 - Melaka
Intricate gable of Poh San Teng Temple, Bukit Cina of Melaka with UNESCO World Heritage logo. Thanks to Nurul of Malaysia.

Postcard 2 - Melaka
Extra large size (21x15 cm) postcard of Melaka aerial view with the Malacca river.

Postcard 3 - Melaka
Melaka (Malacca) started in 1402 AD as a spice port by a Sumatran Prince Parameswara in the Straits of Malacca (Melaka). It was captured in 1511 by the Portuguese. Here are the ruins of the Famosa Fort and St. Paul's church. Stamps of Melaka State Emblem. Thanks to Azri of Melaka.

Postcard 4 - Melaka
The Dutch took over Melaka from the Portuguse in 1624. The Red Stadhuys with the Clock tower and Church are in the heart of downtown Melaka.

Postcard 5 - George Town
Extra large size (21x15cm) postcard of George Town aerial view showing the harbor.

Postcard 6 - George Town
Before the bridge was built, the only way to get to the island is by ferry. This is an older postcard - the ferries are now painted in multi-colors. There is also an international airport in Penang island. George Town was established in 1786 by Sir Captain Francis Light as an English port between China and India.

Postcard 7 - George Town
George Town's population is mainly Chinese. You can see many beautiful Chinese clan houses like this Khoo Kongsi. Artisans from China were recruited to built this now famous tourist destination.

Iraq - Samarra Archaeological City

2012-01-20T03:05:00.000-08:00

"Samarra Archaeological City is the site of a powerful Islamic capital city that ruled over the provinces of the Abbasid Empire extending from Tunisia to Central Asia for a century. Located on both sides of the River Tigris 130 km north of Baghdad, the length of the site from north to south is 41.5 km; its width varying from 8 km to 4 km. It testifies to the architectural and artistic innovations that developed there and spread to the other regions of the Islamic world and beyond. The 9th-century Great Mosque and its spiral minaret are among the numerous remarkable architectural monuments of the site, 80% of which remain to be excavated." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Spiral Tower of Samarra. Thanks to Milad of Iraq.

Postcard 2
A multi-view Iraq postcard showing at top right corner the minaret of Great Mosque of Samarra. Nice bird stamps. Postcard sent on Dec 4, 2009 from Erbil, in Kurdistan region of northern Iraq and arrived in Penang on Jan 17, 2010. Thanks to Chris who was visiting Iraq.

Iraq - Hatra

2012-01-20T01:17:00.000-08:00

"A large fortified city under the influence of the Parthian Empire and capital of the first Arab Kingdom, Hatra withstood invasions by the Romans in A.D. 116 and 198 thanks to its high, thick walls reinforced by towers. The remains of the city, especially the temples where Hellenistic and Roman architecture blend with Eastern decorative features, attest to the greatness of its civilization." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Hatra in the bottom right of this multiview of Iraq. Thanks to Milad of Iraq.

Postcard 2
La ville de Hatra, Iraq. Thanks to Ivan of Czech Republic.

Postcard 3
The Princess of Hatro - 100 B.C. Thanks to Ivan of Czech Republic.

Sri Lanka - Sacred City of Anuradhapura

2012-01-20T01:15:00.000-08:00

"This sacred city was established around a cutting from the 'tree of enlightenment', the Buddha's fig tree, brought there in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitta, the founder of an order of Buddhist nuns. Anuradhapura, a Ceylonese political and religious capital that flourished for 1,300 years, was abandoned after an invasion in 993. Hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the splendid site, with its palaces, monasteries and monuments, is now accessible once again.” Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Isurumuniya Temple in Anuradhapura. Beautiful stamps used. Thanks to Ravindra of Sri Lanka.

Postcard 2
Ruwanweliseya of Anuradhapura. Nice stamps of UNESCO WHS Pollonawaru used. Thanks to Mithraka of Sri Lanka.

Postcard 3
A glorious sunset over Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Thanks to Dinesh of Sri Lanka.

Portugal - Fado - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2012-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

"Fado is a performance genre incorporating music and poetry widely practised by various communities in Lisbon. It represents a Portuguese multicultural synthesis of Afro-Brazilian sung dances, local traditional genres of song and dance, musical traditions from rural areas of the country brought by successive waves of internal immigration, and the cosmopolitan urban song patterns of the early nineteenth century. Fado songs are usually performed by a solo singer, male or female, traditionally accompanied by a wire-strung acoustic guitar and the Portuguese guitarra – a pear-shaped cittern with twelve wire strings, unique to Portugal, which also has an extensive solo repertoire. The past few decades have witnessed this instrumental accompaniment expanded to two Portuguese guitars, a guitar and a bass guitar. Fado is performed professionally on the concert circuit and in small ‘Fado houses’, and by amateurs in numerous grass-root associations located throughout older neighbourhoods of Lisbon. Informal tuition by older, respected exponents takes place in traditional performance spaces and often over successive generations within the same families. The dissemination of Fado through emigration and the world music circuit has reinforced its image as a symbol of Portuguese identity, leading to a process of cross-cultural exchange involving other musical traditions." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Fado is an urban popular song in Portugal. Nice children stamp used. Thanks to Nanu of Portugal.

Australia - Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

2012-01-18T01:25:00.000-08:00

"This park, formerly called Uluru (Ayers Rock – Mount Olga) National Park, features spectacular geological formations that dominate the vast red sandy plain of central Australia. Uluru, an immense monolith, and Kata Tjuta, the rock domes located west of Uluru, form part of the traditional belief system of one of the oldest human societies in the world. The traditional owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta are the Anangu Aboriginal people." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Panaroma postcard of Kata Tjuta from Sunset Lookout, Australia. Three stamps of Australia Christmas Island Year of Dragon 2012 used. Thanks to Kristie of Australia.

Postcard 2
View of both Kata Tjuta and Uluru. Thanks to Elena of Australia.

Postcard 3
A maxicard of Uluru of Australia Post with First Day Issue 1993 cancellation. I bought this maxicard in Penang on March 2011.

Postcard 4 - Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Nice view postcard of Uluru. Thanks to Lynne of New South Wales, Australia.

Postcard 5
Uluru (Ayers Rock) is one of the most recognizable natural landmarks of Australia. It is located near Alice Springs, in the heart of middle Australia. Note: No postal mark on postcard. Thanks to Anne for sending this beautiful postcard on your road trip from Adelaide to Darwin through Uluru.

Indonesia - Komodo National Park

2012-01-16T01:10:00.000-08:00

"These volcanic islands are inhabited by a population of around 5,700 giant lizards, whose appearance and aggressive behaviour have led to them being called 'Komodo dragons'. They exist nowhere else in the world and are of great interest to scientists studying the theory of evolution. The rugged hillsides of dry savannah and pockets of thorny green vegetation contrast starkly with the brilliant white sandy beaches and the blue waters surging over coral." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Great postcard of Komodo Dragon - living dragons in Indonesia. Nice animal stamps used including komodo stamp. Thanks to Shinta of Indonesia.

Postcard 2
Komodo Dragon are also found in coastal West Flores besides the islands of Komodo, Rinca and Padar. Thanks to Stefanie of Germany.

Postcard 3
Incredible Komodo lizards. A beautiful miniature stamp sheet of Indonesia wild and domestic fish used. Thanks so much to Shinta of Indonesia.

Brazil - Historic Centre of the Town of Diamantina

2012-01-06T01:01:00.000-08:00

"Diamantina, a colonial village set like a jewel in a necklace of inhospitable rocky mountains, recalls the exploits of diamond prospectors in the 18th century and testifies to the triumph of human cultural and artistic endeavour over the environment." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brasil - Passadico da Casa da Gloria. Thanks to Gisely of Brazil.

Postcard 2
A diamond mining town in the 18th and 19th centuries with beautiful historical buildings. This is one of my favorite sights with the connecting bridge across the cobbled steep street. Thanks so much to Karina of Brazil for this wonderful card.

Senegal - Saloum Delta

2012-01-05T01:33:00.000-08:00

"Saloum Delta, Senegal - Fishing and shellfish gathering have sustained human life in the 5,000 km2 property, which is formed by the arms of three rivers. The site comprises brackish channels encompassing over 200 islands and islets, mangrove forest, an Atlantic marine environment, and dry forest. The site is marked by 218 shellfish mounds, some of them several hundreds metres long, produced by its human inhabitants over the ages. Burial sites on 28 of the mounds take the form of tumuli where remarkable artefacts have been found. They are important for our understanding of cultures from the various periods of the delta’s occupation and testify to the history of human settlement along the coast of West Africa." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Solitary Baobab tree at Saloum Delta. Thanks to Marie of France who got this postcard from a friend visiting Senegal.

Senegal - Niokolo-Koba National Park

2012-01-05T01:02:00.000-08:00

"Located in a well-watered area along the banks of the Gambia river, the gallery forests and savannahs of Niokolo-Koba National Park have a very rich fauna, among them Derby elands (largest of the antelopes), chimpanzees, lions, leopards and a large population of elephants, as well as many birds, reptiles and amphibians." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Elephants at Niokolo Koba National Park, Senegal. Thanks to Marie of France who got this postcard from a friend visiting Senegal.

Iran - The Persian Garden

2012-01-01T13:15:00.000-08:00

"The property includes nine gardens in as many provinces. They exemplify the diversity of Persian garden designs that evolved and adapted to different climate conditions while retaining principles that have their roots in the times of Cyrus the Great, 6th century BC. Always divided into four sectors, with water playing an important role for both irrigation and ornamentation, the Persian garden was conceived to symbolize Eden and the four Zoroastrian elements of sky, earth, water and plants. These gardens, dating back to different periods since the 6th century BC, also feature buildings, pavilions and walls, as well as sophisticated irrigation systems. They have influenced the art of garden design as far as India and Spain." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

There are 9 listed Persian Gardens. This postcard shows the famous and beautiful Eram Gardens, Shiraz in Iran. Thanks of Malena of Sweden who was travelling in Iran for sending this nice postcard.

Belgium - Major Town Houses of the Architect Victor Horta (Brussels)

2012-01-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

"The four major town houses - Hôtel Tassel, Hôtel Solvay, Hôtel van Eetvelde, and Maison & Atelier Horta - located in Brussels and designed by the architect Victor Horta, one of the earliest initiators of Art Nouveau, are some of the most remarkable pioneering works of architecture of the end of the 19th century. The stylistic revolution represented by these works is characterised by their open plan, the diffusion of light, and the brilliant joining of the curved lines of decoration with the structure of the building." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Victor Horta, Maison et atelier personnels, 1898. 23-25 rue Americaine a Saint-Gilles (Bruxelles) - facade. Thanks to Johan of Belgium.

Postcard 2 - Hotel van Eetvelde, Avenue Palmerston 4 a Bruxelles - architecture by Victor Horta. Nice Belgigue stamp. Thanks to Veerley.

Indonesia - Saman Dance - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2011-12-30T04:50:00.000-08:00

"The Saman dance is part of the cultural heritage of the Gayo people of Aceh province in Sumatra. Boys and young men perform the Saman sitting on their heels or kneeling in tight rows. Each wears a black costume embroidered with colourful Gayo motifs symbolizing nature and noble values. The leader sits in the middle of the row and leads the singing of verses, mostly in the Gayo language. These offer guidance and can be religious, romantic or humorous in tone. Dancers clap their hands, slap their chests, thighs and the ground, click their fingers, and sway and twist their bodies and heads in time with the shifting rhythm – in unison or alternating with the moves of opposing dancers. These movements symbolize the daily lives of the Gayo people and their natural environment. The Saman is performed to celebrate national and religious holidays, cementing relationships between village groups who invite each other for performances. The frequency of Saman performances and its transmission are decreasing, however. Many leaders with knowledge of the Saman are now elderly and without successors. Other forms of entertainment and new games are replacing informal transmission, and many young people now emigrate to further their education. Lack of funds is also a constraint, as Saman costumes and performances involve considerable expense." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

The Saman Dance of Dance of a Thousand Hands is normally performed to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Mohammad. Nice matching stamp of this Indonesia intangible cultural heritage and stamp of Turkey intangible cultural heritage used. Thanks to Shinta of Indonesia.

Indonesia - Borobudur Temple Compounds

2011-12-30T02:07:00.000-08:00

"This famous Buddhist temple, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries, is located in central Java. It was built in three tiers: a pyramidal base with five concentric square terraces, the trunk of a cone with three circular platforms and, at the top, a monumental stupa. The walls and balustrades are decorated with fine low reliefs, covering a total surface area of 2,500 m2. Around the circular platforms are 72 openwork stupas, each containing a statue of the Buddha. The monument was restored with UNESCO's help in the 1970s." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Borobodur Temple is a 9th century Buddhist monument. Thanks to YL.

Postcard 2
A Borobodur postcard with a nice Borobudur stamp used. Thanks to Shinta of Java, Indonesia.

Postcard 3
I visited and climbed to the top of Borobudur. It is beautiful to see the serene plain of rice fields and the active volcanoes in the distance. I bought this and the next postcard for my collection when I was in Borobudur, Java.

Postcard 4
Another Borobudur postcard showing the intricate carvings. I bought this postcard in Indonesia.

Mexico - Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco

2011-12-30T01:24:00.000-08:00

"Built in the 16th century by the Spanish on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the old Aztec capital, Mexico City is now one of the world's largest and most densely populated cities. It has five Aztec temples, the ruins of which have been identified, a cathedral (the largest on the continent) and some fine 19th- and 20th-century public buildings such as the Palacio de las Bellas Artes. Xochimilco lies 28 km south of Mexico City. With its network of canals and artificial islands, it testifies to the efforts of the Aztec people to build a habitat in the midst of an unfavourable environment. Its characteristic urban and rural structures, built since the 16th century and during the colonial period; have been preserved in an exceptional manner." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Map of Historic Mexico City
Thanks to Elsa of Mexico.

Postcard 2 - Historic Center of Mexico City

Aerial view of Beautiful Arts Palace and Tower "Latinoamerican" of Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico). My first postcard of Mexico. Nice colorful stamps. Thanks to Laura who lives in Mexico City. Muchos gracias.

Postcard 3 - Palace of Fine Arts, Mexico City
A beautiful night view of the Palace of Fine Arts of UNESCO World Heritage historic centre of Mexico City. Thanks to CG of Mexico City.

Postcard 4 - Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City
The Metropolitan Cathedral is the largest and oldest in the Americas. Thanks to CG of Mexico City.

Postcard 5 - Xochimilco
A beautiful postcard of leisure boat travel along canals of Xochimilco. It is located south of Mexico City where during Aztec times, the locals will travel by boats (chalupas and trajineras) to Tenochtitlan. Thanks so much to Laura of Mexico City. Muchos gracias.

Hungary - Slovakia - Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst

2011-12-24T01:53:00.000-08:00

"The variety of formations and the fact that they are concentrated in a restricted area means that the 712 caves currently identified make up a typical temperate-zone karstic system. Because they display an extremely rare combination of tropical and glacial climatic effects, they make it possible to study geological history over tens of millions of years." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Hungary
Baradla Cave of Aggtelek Karst in north east of Hungary at the Slovakian border. Nice stamps used. Thanks to Rita of Hungary.

Postcard 2 - Slovakia

Slovakia Caves of Ochtinska aragonitova jaskyna. Thanks to Radek of Czech Republic.

Japan - Hiraizumi – Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land

2011-12-21T01:50:00.000-08:00

"Hiraizumi - Temples, Gardens and Archaeological Sites Representing the Buddhist Pure Land (Japan) comprises five sites, including the sacred Mount Kinkeisan. It features vestiges of government offices dating from the 11th and 12th centuries when Hiraizumi was the administrative centre of the northern realm of Japan and rivalled Kyoto. The realm was based on the cosmology of Pure Land Buddhism, which spread to Japan in the 8th century. It represented the pure land of Buddha that people aspire to after death, as well as peace of mind in this life. In combination with indigenous Japanese nature worship and Shintoism, Pure Land Buddhism developed a concept of planning and garden design that was unique to Japan." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Chusonji Temple
Chusonji Temple - one of five sites of Hiraizumi. Nice Nippon Christmas stamp used. Thanks to Kenji-san of Japan.

Postcard 2 - Moutsuji Temple
Moutsuji Temple of Hiraizumi. Thanks to Kenji-san of Japan.

Luxembourg - The Hopping Procession of Echternach - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2011-12-20T07:06:00.000-08:00

"Each year, on the Tuesday of Pentecost (a Christian religious festival), the hopping procession of Echternach (Iechternacher Sprangprëssioun) takes place in the medieval town centre of Echternach, the oldest city in Luxembourg. Documented since the year 1100, the procession is founded on the cult of Saint Willibrord, a monk and founder of the Abbey of Echternach, revered for his missionary activities, his kindness and gift of curing certain illnesses. Despite the opposition of the Church due to the pagan elements of the procession, its successive bans did nothing to stop it spreading to the rest of the region and permeating every social class. The procession begins early in the morning in the courtyard of the ancient abbey, in the presence of the highest ecclesiastical authorities in the country and of many other countries. Singers recite litanies and then some 8,000 dancers take over, split into 45 groups according to a ritual transmitted from generation to generation. It ends with a service in the basilica. The current procession is a religious event deeply rooted in the tradition expressed through prayer, songs and dance – the historical form of worship. Nowadays, the procession, supported by the civil and religious authorities is increasingly popular despite secularization, with an average each year of 13,000 participants coming from Luxembourg and the neighbouring regions." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

La procession dansante d'Echternach. With matching new stamps issued for this intangible cultural heritage. Thanks so much to Michael of Luxembourg.

Vietnam - Citadel of the Ho Dynasty

2011-12-13T23:07:00.000-08:00

"The 14th -century Ho Dynasty citadel, built according to the feng shui principles, testifies to the flowering of neo-Confucianism in late 14th century Viet Nam and its spread to other parts of east Asia. According to these principles it was sited in a landscape of great scenic beauty on an axis joining the Tuong Son and Don Son mountains in a plain between the Ma and Buoi rivers. The citadel buildings represent an outstanding example of a new style of south-east Asian imperial city." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

A great photograph card of the gate walls of this Ho Dynasty site. The card was bought at a souvenir shop at the site - hopefully tourist postcards will be available one day soon. Thanks so much to Johnson of Hong Kong who visited this newest UNESCO World Heritage site of Vietnam.

Indonesia - Prambanan Temple Compounds

2011-12-13T01:10:00.000-08:00

"Built in the 10th century, this is the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia. Rising above the centre of the last of these concentric squares are three temples decorated with reliefs illustrating the epic of the Ramayana, dedicated to the three great Hindu divinities (Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma) and three temples dedicated to the animals who serve them." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
A beautiful and surprise Prambanan Temple postcard sent by Shinta of Indonesia. Nice wartime stamps used. Terima kasih.

Postcard 2
View of Prambanan Temple. Nice stamps including a Prambanan stamp used. Thanks to Shinta of Java, Indonesia.

Postcard 3
I visited Yogyakarta and watched an outdoor night Ramayana classical dance play performed with the Prambanan Temple in the background.

India - Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2011-12-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

"Songs and dances are an expression of the Kalbelia community’s traditional way of life. Once professional snake handlers, Kalbelia today evoke their former occupation in music and dance that is evolving in new and creative ways. Today, women in flowing black skirts dance and swirl, replicating the movements of a serpent, while men accompany them on the khanjari percussion instrument and the poongi, a woodwind instrument traditionally played to capture snakes. The dancers wear traditional tattoo designs, jewellery and garments richly embroidered with small mirrors and silver thread. Kalbelia songs disseminate mythological knowledge through stories, while special traditional dances are performed during Holi, the festival of colours. The songs also demonstrate the poetic acumen of the Kalbelia, who are reputed to compose lyrics spontaneously and improvise songs during performances. Transmitted from generation to generation, the songs and dances form part of an oral tradition for which no texts or training manuals exist. Song and dance are a matter of pride for the Kalbelia community, and a marker of their identity at a time when their traditional travelling lifestyle and role in rural society are diminishing. They demonstrate their community’s attempt to revitalize its cultural heritage and adapt it to changing socioeconomic conditions." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

Kalbelia Folk Dance. A postcrossing meet postcard with signatures of postcrossers of India. Thanks so much to Sita of India.

China - Classical Gardens of Suzhou

2011-12-04T01:04:00.000-08:00

"Classical Chinese garden design, which seeks to recreate natural landscapes in miniature, is nowhere better illustrated than in the nine gardens in the historic city of Suzhou. They are generally acknowledged to be masterpieces of the genre. Dating from the 11th-19th century, the gardens reflect the profound metaphysical importance of natural beauty in Chinese culture in their meticulous design." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

There are 9 listed gardens - 8 gardens are in Suzhou and 1 garden in neighboring Tong Li.

1 - Garden of Cultivation - Suzhou
"The Garden of Cultivation was laid out during the Ming dynasty, in the 16th century. A quarter of the total area is occupied by the central pond, which has a mountain landscape to the south and a group of buildings, to the north. The two sides are linked to east and west by roofed open galleries. It is very typical, both in its layout and in the design of its thirteen buildings, of the classical Ming dynasty garden."

Postcard 1
This is a smaller garden and so harder postcard to find. I bought this postcard in Suzhou in November 2011.

2 - Couple's Garden Retreat - Suzhou
"The origins of the Couple's Garden Retreat date back to the Qing dynasty, in the early 18th century. The structures consist of four aligned buildings. The East Garden is dominated by a dramatically realistic mountain of yellow stone which rises from a pool flanked by several attractive Ming style buildings. The style of the West Garden is more subdued, its limestone hills pierced by interlinking caves and tunnels."

Postcard 2A
I bought this postcard in Suzhou in November 2011 visit.

Postcard 2B
Couple's Garden Retreat. Thanks to Shi of Suzhou, China.

3 - Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty - Suzhou
"The oldest gardens are probably the Mountain Villa with Embracing Beauty, whose origins go back to the end of the 16th century. Although it covers less than 500 m2 it is intensively detailed, with high peaks rising to 7 m, dells, paths, caves, stone houses, ravines, precipices, ridges and cliff".

Postcard 3A
I bought this postcard in Suzhou, November 2011.

Postcard 3B
Two more postcards. Thanks to Shi of Suzhou, China.

Postcard 3C

4 - Canglang Pavillion - Suzhou
"The Canglang Pavilion was built on the order of the Northern Song poet Su Sunqin in the early 11th century, on the site of an earlier, destroyed garden. During the Yuan and Ming dynasties (1279-1644) it became the Mystical Concealment Temple. Over succeeding centuries it was repeatedly restored, a tradition maintained by the People's Republic of China. It is reached across a zigzag stone bridge, when the mountains, covered with old trees and bamboo, suddenly become visible. The square pavilion stands on top of one of the mountains, inscribed with an appropriate text."

Postcard 4A
Thanks to Shi of Suzhou, China.

Postcard 4B
Two more postcards I bought in Suzhou, November 2011.

Postcard 4C

5 - Lingering Garden - Suzhou
"The Lingering Garden dates from the end of the 16th century is occupied by buildings. The central part features mountain and lake scenery, encircled by buildings and visited by means of a narrow, winding path which gives unexpected views of great beauty."

Postcard 5A
I bought two postcards of Lingering Garden in Suzhou, November 2011

Postcard 5B

Postcard 5C
Thanks to Shi of Suzhou, China.

6 - Lion Grove Garden - Suzhou
"The Lion Forest Garden was created by a group of Zen Buddhist disciples of the famous Abbot Tianni in 1342, during the Yuan dynasty, as the Budhi Orthodox Monastery. The garden, which attracted scholars and artists, was detached from the temple in the 17th century. It features a series of man-made mountains with various buildings, disposed around the lake, together with an artificial waterfall on steep cliffs. The 14th-century mountains are still clearly visible. The woodland cover of the craggy mountains is pierced by winding paths and there are many caves and grotesque rocks. There are 22 buildings in the garden, the most impressive of which is the Hall of Peace and Happiness, a masterpiece of the Mandarin Duck style of hall."

Postcard 6A
I bought two postcards of Lion Grove Garden in Suzhou, November 2011.

Postcard 6B

Postcard 6C
Lion Grove Garden, Suzhou. Thanks to Clement of China.

7 - Master of the Nets Garden - Suzhou
"The Garden of the Master of the Nest is entered from the south through a rare form of gateway flanked by enormous carved blocks of stone, which designate the court rank of the owner. Once again the central feature is a pool, encircle by a covered walkway. The layout of buildings and gardens is extremely subtle, so that a small area gives the impression of great size and variety."

Postcard 7A
I bought this night view postcard in Suzhou, November 2011.

Postcard 7B
Postcard bought in China.

Master of the Nets Garden or Wangshiyuan 网师园. I have been to Suzhou twice. It was the Venice of the East with the many canals before. Enjoyed the well designed man-made gardens of old China.

8 - Humble Administrator's Garden - Suzhou
"The Humble Administrator's Garden has been the site of the residence of Suzhou notables since the 2nd century AD. Its central section is a recreation of the scenery of the Lower Yangtze. Rising from the lake are the tree covered east and West Hills, each crowned by a pavilion. The variety of plant species is great."

Postcard 8A
I visited Suzhou for times and visited the Humble Adminstrator's Garden each time including a night visit. In my visit on November, 2011, I bought and mailed this postard from Suzhou.

Postcard 8B
Humble Adminstrator's Garden or Zhuozhengyuan 拙政园 is one the most famous Suzhou's classical gardens.

Postcard 8C

9 - Retreat and Reflection Garden - Tongli
"The Retreat and Reflection Garden is the work of the famous painter Yuan Long, who built it in 1885-87. The group of buildings is linked with the garden proper located to the east by a boat-shaped guesthouse. Once again, the central feature of the garden is the pool, surrounded by a series of elegant buildings, the most striking of which is the double-tiered Celestial Bridge. The Gathering Beauty Pavilion overlooks the entire garden from the north-west corner."

Postcard 9A
I bought this postcard in Suzhou, November 2011.

Postcard 9B
Retreat and Reflection Garden or Tuisiyuan 退思园 is located in Tongli, Jiangsu and not in Suzhou but is inscribed under the Suzhou Classical Gardens.

China - Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, Lhasa

2011-12-03T10:40:00.000-08:00

"The Potala Palace, winter palace of the Dalai Lama since the 7th century, symbolizes Tibetan Buddhism and its central role in the traditional administration of Tibet. The complex, comprising the White and Red Palaces with their ancillary buildings, is built on Red Mountain in the centre of Lhasa Valley, at an altitude of 3,700m. Also founded in the 7th century, the Jokhang Temple Monastery is an exceptional Buddhist religious complex. Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama's former summer palace, constructed in the 18th century, is a masterpiece of Tibetan art. The beauty and originality of the architecture of these three sites, their rich ornamentation and harmonious integration in a striking landscape, add to their historic and religious interest." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Tibet was called the "Rooftop of the World".

Postcard 1 - Jokhan Monastery
I bought this postcard in Shanghai, November 2011.

Postcard 2 - Potala Palace, Lhasa
Giant "tangka" displayed. Thanks to Chris who visited Tibet to send this wonderful card from Lhasa, Tibet, China.

Postcard 3

China - Yin Xu

2011-12-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

"The archaeological site of Yin Xu, close to Anyang City, some 500 km south of Beijing, is an ancient capital city of the late Shang Dynasty (1300 - 1046 BC). It testifies to the golden age of early Chinese culture, crafts and sciences, a time of great prosperity of the Chinese Bronze Age. A number of royal tombs and palaces, prototypes of later Chinese architecture, have been unearthed on the site, including the Palace and Royal Ancestral Shrines Area, with more than 80 house foundations, and the only tomb of a member of the royal family of the Shang Dynasty to have remained intact, the Tomb of Fu Hao. The large number and superb craftsmanship of the burial accessories found there bear testimony to the advanced level of Shang crafts industry. Inscriptions on oracle bones found in Yin Xu bear invaluable testimony to the development of one of the world’s oldest writing systems, ancient beliefs and social systems." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
I bought this postcard in Shanghai, November 2011 of Yin Xu showing the old writing on bones.

Postcard 2

It is a prepaid admission ticket-postcard to Yin Xu. The ticket is used and left this postcard which is printed by State Postal Bureau. Printed stamp of Yin Xu and a cool tiger stamp used to top up the postage for international mailing. Thanks to Mumu of China.

Postcard 3
A State Postal Bureau postcard showing the earliest Chinese writings on bones call the "Oracle Bone Inscriptions" found in Yin Xu. It is a China Post Office Postal card with preprinted matching stamp. Thanks to Mumu of China.

Postcard 4
A scond State Post Bureau postcard. Sent by River of China.

China - China Danxia

2011-12-02T02:29:00.000-08:00

"China Danxia is the name given in China to landscapes developed on continental red terrigenous sedimentary beds influenced by endogenous forces (including uplift) and exogenous forces (including weathering and erosion). The inscribed site comprises six areas found in the sub-tropical zone of south-west China. They are characterized by spectacular red cliffs and a range of erosional landforms, including dramatic natural pillars, towers, ravines, valleys and waterfalls. These rugged landscapes have helped to conserve sub-tropical broad-leaved evergreen forests, and host many species of flora and fauna, about 400 of which are considered rare or threatened." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Danxia - Hunan
Received 3 postcards of Danxia from Clement of China. Thanks.

Postcard 2 Danxia - Guizhou
Another view of Danxia of Guizhou, China.

Postcard 3 - Danxia - Hunan
Danxia landscape - Mountain Langshan of Hunan. Thanks to Liu Xu of China.

Philippines - Baroque Churches of the Philippines

2011-12-02T02:14:00.000-08:00

"These four churches, the first of which was built by the Spanish in the late 16th century, are located in Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay and Miag-ao. Their unique architectural style is a reinterpretation of European Baroque by Chinese and Philippine craftsmen." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

There are 4 listed Churches:
1) San Agustin Church in Manila
2) Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion in Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur
3) San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte
4) Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church in Miag-ao, Iloilo

Postcard 1
I visited Manila and toured this San Agustin. Wow.. 13 stamps used on this postcard. Thanks to Ritz of Philippines.

Postcard 2
Paoay Church or St. Augustine Catholic Church, located at Ilocos Norte, is famous for its gothic, ornate and oriental designs which has survived several earthquakes. Thanks to teenage brothers Mathew and Michael who jointly send this card.

Postcard 3

Postcard 4
Miagao Church, 40km southwest of Iloilo City. Built in 1786. Nice browh shrike bird stamps used. Thanks to bradpete of Philippines.

Postcard 5
Miag-ao Church. Thanks to Paolo of Philippines.

China - The traditional firing technology of Longquan celadon - UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

2011-12-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

"The city of Longquan in the coastal Chinese province of Zhejian is known for its celadon pottery and the traditional firing technology that imparts its distinctive glaze. Compounded from violet-golden clay and a mixture of burnt feldspar, limestone, quartz and plant ash, the glaze is prepared from recipes that have often been handed down for generations by teachers or within families. The glaze is applied to a fired stoneware vessel, which is then fired again in a repeated cycle of six stages of heating and cooling where precise temperatures matter a great deal: either over- or under-firing will spoil the effect. Experienced celadon artists carefully control each stage with a thermometer and by observing the colour of the flame, which reaches temperatures as high as 1310º C. The final product may take either of two styles: ‘elder brother’ celadon has a black finish with a crackle effect, while the ‘younger brother’ variety has a thick, lavender-grey and plum-green finish. With its underlying jade-like green colour, celadon fired by the family-oriented businesses of Longquan is prized as masterwork-quality art that can also serve as household ware. It is a proud symbol of the cultural heritage of the craftspeople, their city and the nation." Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage

I bought this set of maximum postcards of Longquan Celadon in Shanghai, November 2011.

China - South China Karst

2011-12-01T02:04:00.000-08:00

"The South China Karst region extends over a surface of half a million km2 lying mainly in Yunnan, Guizhou and Guangxi provinces. It represents one of the world’s most spectacular examples of humid tropical to subtropical karst landscapes. The stone forests of Shilin are considered superlative natural phenomena and a world reference with a wider range of pinnacle shapes than other karst landscapes with pinnacles, and a higher diversity of shapes and changing colours. The cone and tower karsts of Libo, also considered the world reference site for these types of karst, form a distinctive and beautiful landscape. Wulong Karst has been inscribed for its giant dolines (sinkholes), natural bridges and caves." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Furong Cave in Wulong. I bought this postcard in Shanghai, November 2011.

Postcard 2
Stone Forest of Yunnan. A postcard from a postcard set that I bought in Shanghai, China in October 2010.

Postcard 3
Stone Forest - ShiLin of Lunan, Yunnan. Dragonfly stamp added to the preprinted matching stamp. Thanks to Angelet. Xie xie.

Argentina - Brazil - Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis

2011-12-01T01:40:00.000-08:00

Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis: San Ignacio Mini, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa Maria Mayor (Argentina), Ruins of Sao Miguel das Missoes (Brazil)

"The ruins of São Miguel das Missões in Brazil, and those of San Ignacio Miní, Santa Ana, Nuestra Señora de Loreto and Santa María la Mayor in Argentina, lie at the heart of a tropical forest. They are the impressive remains of five Jesuit missions, built in the land of the Guaranis during the 17th and 18th centuries. Each is characterized by a specific layout and a different state of conservation." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Portal Reducciones Jesuiticas de San Ignocio Mini, Missiones, Argentina. Thanks to Marta of Argentina.

Postcard 2
A multi-view showing at the bottom left the San Ignacio Ruins of Argentina. Thanks to Monica of Argentina.

Portugal - Cultural Landscape of Sintra

2011-12-01T01:25:00.000-08:00

"In the 19th century Sintra became the first centre of European Romantic architecture. Ferdinand II turned a ruined monastery into a castle where this new sensitivity was displayed in the use of Gothic, Egyptian, Moorish and Renaissance elements and in the creation of a park blending local and exotic species of trees. Other fine dwellings, built along the same lines in the surrounding serra, created a unique combination of parks and gardens which influenced the development of landscape architecture throughout Europe." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Multi-view of Sintra landscape
Nice multiview showing different sites of Sintra landscape. Thanks to Ana of Portugal. Obrigado.

Postcard 2 - Pena National Palace
Pena National Palace of Sintra in Lisboa District. Thanks to Kel.

United Kingdom - Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and St Martin's Church

2011-12-01T01:20:00.001-08:00

"Canterbury, in Kent, has been the seat of the spiritual head of the Church of England for nearly five centuries. Canterbury's other important monuments are the modest Church of St Martin, the oldest church in England; the ruins of the Abbey of St Augustine, a reminder of the saint's evangelizing role in the Heptarchy from 597; and Christ Church Cathedral, a breathtaking mixture of Romanesque and Perpendicular Gothic, where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
St. Martin's Church.

Postcard 2
A multi-view of Canterbury Cathedral. Thanks to Andy of UK.

Portugal - Alto Douro Wine Region

2011-12-01T01:20:00.000-08:00

"Wine has been produced by traditional landholders in the Alto Douro region for some 2,000 years. Since the 18th century, its main product, port wine, has been world famous for its quality. This long tradition of viticulture has produced a cultural landscape of outstanding beauty that reflects its technological, social and economic evolution." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Douro Valley World Heritage , Pinhao. Thanks to Ana of Portugal.

Postcard 2
Thanks to Northsea of Belgium who was visiting Portugal.

Denmark - Kronborg Castle

2011-12-01T01:09:00.000-08:00

Located on a strategically important site commanding the Sund, the stretch of water between Denmark and Sweden, the Royal castle of Kronborg at Helsingør (Elsinore) is of immense symbolic value to the Danish people and played a key role in the history of northern Europe in the 16th-18th centuries. Work began on the construction of this outstanding Renaissance castle in 1574, and its defences were reinforced according to the canons of the period's military architecture in the late 17th century. It has remained intact to the present day. It is world-renowned as Elsinore, the setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Kronborg
Multiview of Kronborg. Thanks to Gerald of Germany.

Postcard 2
Another multi-view of Kronborg, Helsingor, Denmark. Thanks to Pedrotti of France.

France - Roman Theatre and its Surroundings and the "Triumphal Arch" of Orange

2011-12-01T01:02:00.000-08:00

"Situated in the Rhone valley, the ancient theatre of Orange, with its 103-m-long facade, is one of the best preserved of all the great Roman theatres. Built between A.D. 10 and 25, the Roman arch is one of the most beautiful and interesting surviving examples of a provincial triumphal arch from the reign of Augustus. It is decorated with low reliefs commemorating the establishment of the Pax Romana." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Roman Theatre
Roman Theatre of Orange. Thanks to Nancy of France.

Postcard 2 - Arch of Triumph
Day view of the Arch of Triumph of Orange. Thanks to Nicole of Germany who was visiting France.

Postcard 3 - Arch of Triumph
Night view of the Arch of Triumph of Orange. Thanks to Nancy of France.

Belgium - France - Belfries of Belgium and France

2011-12-01T01:01:00.000-08:00

"Twenty-three belfries in the north of France and the belfry of Gembloux in Belgium were inscribed as a group, an extension to the 32 Belgian belfries inscribed in 1999 as Belfries of Flanders and Wallonia. Built between the 11th and 17th centuries, they showcase the Roman, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles of architecture. They are highly significant tokens of the winning of civil liberties. While Italian, German and English towns mainly opted to build town halls, in part of north-western Europe, greater emphasis was placed on building belfries. Compared with the keep (symbol of the seigneurs) and the bell-tower (symbol of the Church), the belfry, the third tower in the urban landscape, symbolizes the power of the aldermen. Over the centuries, they came to represent the influence and wealth of the towns." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

List of Belfries:
I) BELGIUM
A) FLANDERS
Antwerp
** Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady
- Antwerp City Hall
- Herentals Former City & 'Laken'(Cloth) Hall
- Lier City Hall and Belfry tower
- Mechelen St. Rumbolds Tower of the cathedral
- Mechelen Old Cloth Hall with Belfry, oldest part of the present-day City Hall

West Flanders
** Bruges Belfry known as Halletoren (Tower of the Halls) and [Market] Halls
- Diksmuide City Hall and Belfry
- Kortrijk Belfry known as Halletoren (Tower of the Hall) [4]
- Lo-Reninge (Lo) Former City Hall with Belfry, at present a hotel
- Menen City Hall and adjacent Belfry
- Nieuwpoort Grain Hall known as Stadshalle (City's [Market] Hall), with Belfry
- Roeselare City Hall, City's Market Hall, and Belfry
- Tielt Belfry known as Hallentoren (Tower of the Halls), Cloth Hall and Aldermen's Chamber
- Veurne Landhuis ("country-house", former seat of the Viscounty of Veurne-Ambacht) and Belfry
- Ypres Cloth Hall with Belfry

East Flanders
- Aalst Aldermen's House with Belfry
- Dendermonde City Hall with Belfry
- Eeklo City Hall with Belfry
- Ghent Belfry, Cloth Hall and Mammelokker
- Oudenaarde City Hall with Belfry

Flemish Brabant
- Leuven St. Peter's Church and tower
- Tienen St. Germanus Church with Stadstoren (City Tower)
- Zoutleeuw St. Leonard's Church

Limburg
- Sint-Truiden City Hall with Tower
- Tongeren Basilica of Our Lady with Stadstoren (City Tower)

B) WALLONIA
Hainaut
- Binche Belfry of the City Hall
- Charleroi Belfry of the City Hall
- Mons Belfry
- Thuin Belfry
- Tournai Belfry

Namur
- Gembloux Belfry
- Namur Belfry

II) FRANCE
A) NORD-PAS DE CALAIS

Nord
- Armentières Belfry of the City Hall
- Bailleul Belfry of the City Hall
- Bergues Belfry
- Cambrai Belfry of the St. Martin's Church
- Comines Belfry of the City Hall
- Douai Belfry of the City Hall
- Dunkirk Belfry of the City Hall
- Dunkirk Belfry of the St. Eligius Church
- Gravelines Belfry
** Lille Belfry of the City Hall
- Loos Belfry of the City Hall

Pas-de-Calais
- Aire-sur-la-Lys Belfry of the City Hall
- Arras Belfry of the City Hall
- Béthune Belfry
- Boulogne-sur-Mer Belfry of the City Hall
** Calais Belfry of the City Hall
- Hesdin Belfry of the City Hall

B)PICARDY

Somme
- Abbeville Belfry
- Amiens Belfry
- Doullens Belfry of the former Municipal Hall, at present the tourist information center
- Lucheux Belfry on the remaining City Gate
- Rue Belfry
- Saint-Riquier Belfry

Postcard 1 - Belfries of Nord - Pas de Calais
Nice multiple of Beffrois Nord - Pas de Calais with Rugby 2011 stamp used. Thanks to Veronique for sending from France.

Postcard 2 - France - Calais Belfry
Aerial view of Calais showing the Belfry of the Town Hall of Calais, France. Thanks to Veronique of France.

Postcard 3 - Belgium - Belfry of Antwerp
This is the Belfry of Antwerp of the Cathedral of Our Lady in Belgium. Nice postage stamps used. Thanks to Filip of Antwerp, Belgium.

Postcard 4 - France - Belfry of City Hall, Lille
Here is a multi-view with a picture of the Belfry of City Hall of Lille, France in the bottom right.

Postcard 5 - Belgium - Brugges Belfry
Belfry of Brugge.

Postcard 6 - Belgium - Multiview
Multi-view of Belgium (Belgie, Belgique) showing Belfries of Antwerpen, Brugge and Ghent. Thanks to Filip of Belgium.

Postcard 7 - Belgium - Map of Belfries
Map of Belgium with locations of towns with their belfries. The towns on the maps are Roeselare, Ieper, Oudenaarde, Tienen, Tongeren, Tournai, Mons, etc. Thanks to Fransoise of Brussels, Belgium.

Germany - Pilgrimage Church of Wies

2011-12-01T00:12:00.000-08:00

"Miraculously preserved in the beautiful setting of an Alpine valley, the Church of Wies (1745–54), the work of architect Dominikus Zimmermann, is a masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo – exuberant, colourful and joyful." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Wallfahrtskirche Wies, Pilgrimage Church. Thanks to Anke of Germany.

Postcard 2
A beautiful bluish winter night view of Church of Wies. Thanks to Gabriela of Germany.

Croatia - Old City of Dubrovnik

2011-11-29T01:43:00.000-08:00

"The 'Pearl of the Adriatic', situated on the Dalmatian coast, became an important Mediterranean sea power from the 13th century onwards. Although severely damaged by an earthquake in 1667, Dubrovnik managed to preserve its beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces and fountains. Damaged again in the 1990s by armed conflict, it is now the focus of a major restoration programme co-ordinated by UNESCO." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
View of Dubrovnik in winter. Thanks to Ruth of USA.

Postcard 2 - Aerial view Dubronik
Circular postcard of Dubronik. Thanks to Grete of UK who visited here.

Postcard 3
Dubronik. Nice stamps used. Thanks to Goggs.

Postcard 4
Nice multi-view of Dubrovnik, Croatia. On the postcard, there is a unique dolphin shape cut-out hole. Thanks so much to Mei who was visiting.

Brazil - Serra da Capivara National Park

2011-11-28T01:52:00.000-08:00

"Many of the numerous rock shelters in the Serra da Capivara National Park are decorated with cave paintings, some more than 25,000 years old. They are an outstanding testimony to one of the oldest human communities of South America." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Sao Raimundo Nonato, Pedra Furada - Parque Nacional Serra da Capivara. Thanks to Mariana of Brazil.

Israel - Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev

2011-11-28T01:09:00.000-08:00

"The four Nabatean towns of Haluza, Mamshit, Avdat and Shivta, along with associated fortresses and agricultural landscapes in the Negev Desert, are spread along routes linking them to the Mediterranean end of the incense and spice route. Together they reflect the hugely profitable trade in frankincense and myrrh from south Arabia to the Mediterranean, which flourished from the 3rd century BC until the 2nd century AD. With the vestiges of their sophisticated irrigation systems, urban constructions, forts and caravanserai, they bear witness to the way in which the harsh desert was settled for trade and agriculture." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

The Northern Church of Avdat, Israel. Thanks to Liza of Israel who lives about 3 hours away from Avdat.

Spain - Catalan Romanesque Churches of the Vall de Boí

2011-11-10T02:50:00.000-08:00

"The narrow Vall de Boí is situated in the high Pyrénées, in the Alta Ribagorça region and is surrounded by steep mountains. Each village in the valley contains a Romanesque church, and is surrounded by a pattern of enclosed fields. There are extensive seasonally-used grazing lands on the higher slopes... The nine sites are eight churches, namely: Sant Feliu Barruera; Sant Joan de Boí; Santa Maria Taüll; Sant Climent Taüll; Santa Maria de l'Assumpció Coll; Santa Maria Cardet; la Nativitat Durro; Santa Eulàlia Erill la Vall and as well the Ermitage de Sant Quirc Durro." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Esglesia de Sant Joan de Boi
Thanks to Fabienne of Spain who visited Vall de Boi.

Postcard 2 - Eglesia de Sant Climent de Taull
Thanks again to Fabienne of Spain.

Kiribati - Phoenix Islands Protected Area

2011-11-10T01:30:00.000-08:00

"The Phoenix Island Protected Area (PIPA) is a 408,250 sq.km expanse of marine and terrestrial habitats in the Southern Pacific Ocean. The property encompasses the Phoenix Island Group, one of three island groups in Kiribati, and is the largest designated Marine Protected Area in the world. PIPA conserves one of the world's largest intact oceanic coral archipelago ecosystems, together with 14 known underwater sea mounts (presumed to be extinct volcanoes) and other deep-sea habitats. The area contains approximately 800 known species of fauna, including about 200 coral species, 500 fish species, 18 marine mammals and 44 bird species. The structure and functioning of PIPA's ecosystems illustrates its pristine nature and importance as a migration route and reservoir. This is the first site in Kiribati to be inscribed on the World Heritage List." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Lagoon of Orona (Hull) Island of Phoenix Islands Protected Area. This postcard is printed in Czech Republic. I am looking for another postcard mailed from Kiribati. Thanks to Judy of USA for this postcard.

Boliva - City of Potosí

2011-11-10T01:13:00.000-08:00

"In the 16th century, this area was regarded as the world’s largest industrial complex. The extraction of silver ore relied on a series of hydraulic mills. The site consists of the industrial monuments of the Cerro Rico, where water is provided by an intricate system of aqueducts and artificial lakes; the colonial town with the Casa de la Moneda; the Church of San Lorenzo; several patrician houses; and the barrios mitayos, the areas where the workers lived." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Potosi
Potosi's main square is Plaza 10 De Noviembre. Thanks to Noelle of Chile who visited Bolivia.

Postcard 2 - Royal Mint, Potosi
Main courtyard in the Royal Mint, Potosi. Patio principal de La Casa de la Moneda, Potosi, Bolivia. Thanks to Stefanie of Germany.

Italy - Longobards in Italy, Places of Power (568-774 AD)

2011-11-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

"The Longobards in Italy, Places of Power, 568 – 774 A.D. (Italy) comprises seven groups of important buildings (including fortresses, churches, and monasteries) throughout the Italian Peninsula. They testify to the high achievement of the Lombards, who migrated from northern Europe and developed their own specific culture in Italy where they ruled over vast territories in the 6th to 8th centuries. The Lombards synthesis of architectural styles marked the transition from Antiquity to the European Middle Ages, drawing on the heritage of Ancient Rome, Christian spirituality, Byzantine influence and Germanic northern Europe. The serial property testifies to the Lombards’ major role in the spiritual and cultural development of Medieval European Christianity, notably by bolstering the monastic movement." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Santa Giulia Museo della Citta, Oratorio di Santa Maria in Solario of Brescia. Thanks to Karina of Brazil who bought this postcard from Brescia, Italy.

France - Spain - Pyrénées - Mont Perdu

2011-11-02T03:39:00.000-07:00

"This outstanding mountain landscape, which spans the contemporary national borders of France and Spain, is centred around the peak of Mount Perdu, a calcareous massif that rises to 3,352 m. The site, with a total area of 30,639 ha, includes two of Europe's largest and deepest canyons on the Spanish side and three major cirque walls on the more abrupt northern slopes with France, classic presentations of these geological landforms. The site is also a pastoral landscape reflecting an agricultural way of life that was once widespread in the upland regions of Europe but now survives only in this part of the Pyrénées. Thus it provides exceptional insights into past European society through its landscape of villages, farms, fields, upland pastures and mountain roads." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Spain
Macizo de Monte Perdido, Spain. Parque Nacional de Ordesa yMonte Perdido. Mailed from Las Palmas, Canary Island on October 27, 2011 and arrived in Penang Island on November 2, 2011. Thanks to Ave of Canary Island off Africa of Spain.

Postcard 2 - France
View of Pyrenees - Coucher de soleil sur le cirque de Gavarnie. Le pic du Marbore. Thanks to Nancy of France.

Postcard 3 - France
A view of the Pyrenees range between Spain and France - including peaks like Mount Perdu and Cirque de Gavarnie. Thanks to Nancy of France.

r

Greece - Medieval City of Rhodes

2011-11-02T01:36:00.000-07:00

"The Order of St John of Jerusalem occupied Rhodes from 1309 to 1523 and set about transforming the city into a stronghold. It subsequently came under Turkish and Italian rule. With the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Great Hospital and the Street of the Knights, the Upper Town is one of the most beautiful urban ensembles of the Gothic period. In the Lower Town, Gothic architecture coexists with mosques, public baths and other buildings dating from the Ottoman period." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Old Town of Rodos. Sent from Rhodos Island on October 7, 2011 and arrived in Penang island on November 2, 2011. Thanks to Sarah of Germany.

Postcard 2
Received from Greece, this nice nightview postcard of the old town of Rhodes.

New Zealand - Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand

2011-10-29T03:01:00.000-07:00

"The landscape in this park, situated in south-west New Zealand, has been shaped by successive glaciations into fjords, rocky coasts, towering cliffs, lakes and waterfalls. Two-thirds of the park is covered with southern beech and podocarps, some of which are over 800 years old. The kea, the only alpine parrot in the world, lives in the park, as does the rare and endangered takahe, a large flightless bird. The Westland and Mount Cook National Park and the Fiordland National Park, which were previously inscribed on the World Heritage List, are part of the Te Wahipounamu - South West New Zealand" Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Milford Sound
Green mossy rocks at low tide in Milford Sound with Mitre Peak in the background. A matching stamp issued by France La Poste and special UNESCO cancellation in Paris on October 19, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 29, 2011. Thanks to Jean-Pierre for sending from France.

Postcard 2 - Westland
Westland World Heritage Park in South Island, New Zealand. Postmarked January 17, 2011 using NZ Year of Rabbit stamp. Thanks to Phebe for sending from NZ.

Postcard 3 - Mount Cook
The Peak of Mount Cook - Aoraki in Maori. Thanks to Dave of USA was visiting NZ. The postcard went through Singapore Post.

Postcard 4 - Milford Sound
I visited Milford Sound in the South Island where I took a cruise and saw some majestic waterfalls. Stirling Falls plunges 146m to the sea from a hanging valley. Thanks so much to Adrienne of New Zealand for sending this nice postcard using Year of Ox stamps.

Postcard 5 - Fox Glacier
Saw Fox Glacier from a distance.

Postcard 6 - Franz Josef Glacier
I actually did a glacier walk tour on Franz Josef Glacier. Unforgetable experience.

-

Montenegro - Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor

2011-10-29T01:30:00.000-07:00

"In the Middle Ages, this natural harbour on the Adriatic coast in Montenegro was an important artistic and commercial centre with its own famous schools of masonry and iconography. A large number of the monuments (including four Romanesque churches and the town walls) were seriously damaged by the 1979 earthquake but the town has been restored, largely with UNESCO’s help." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Kotor. Postmarked October 17, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 29, 2011. Thanks to Ruth of USA.

Postcard 2
Kotor of Montenegro. Postmarked October 7, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 21, 2011. Thanks to Luk of Belgium who was visiting Montenegro.

Postcard 3
Kotor is a twenty centuries old and is a UNESCO World Heritage city. Nice stamps of Crna Gora - Montenegro used. Thanks to Michael of South Africa.

Postcard 4
Nice postcard of Kotor, Crna Gora - Montenegro. Postmarked at Niksic on Jan 4, 2010 and arrived in Penang on Jan 19, 2010. Thanks to Milica of Montenegro.

Sudan - Archaeological Sites of the Island of Meroe

2011-10-24T15:28:00.000-07:00

"The Archaeological Sites of the Island of Meroe (Sudan), a semi-desert landscape between the Nile and Atbara rivers, was the heartland of the Kingdom of Kush, a major power from the 8th century B.C. to the 4th century A.D. The property consists of the royal city of the Kushite kings at Meroe, near the River Nile, the nearby religious site of Naqa and Musawwarat es Sufra. It was the seat of the rulers who occupied Egypt for close to a century and features, among other vestiges, pyramids, temples and domestic buildings as well as major installations connected to water management. Their vast empire extended from the Mediterranean to the heart of Africa, and the property testifies to the exchange between the art, architectures, religions and languages of both regions." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Temple of Hathor at the archaelogical sites of Naqaa, Sudan. Thanks to Shane of Sudan.

Australia - Ningaloo Coast

2011-10-19T01:52:00.000-07:00

"The 708,350-hectare marine and terrestrial property of Ningaloo Coast, on the remote western coast of Australia, includes one of the longest near-shore reefs in the world. On land the site features an extensive karst system and network of underground caves and water courses. Annual gatherings of whale sharks occur at Ningaloo Coast, which is home to numerous marine species, among them a wealth of sea turtles. The terrestrial part of the site features subterranean water bodies with a substantial network of caves, conduits, and groundwater streams. They support a variety of rare species that contribute to the exceptional biodiversity of the marine and terrestrial site." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Coral garden in Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. 5 nice stamps used. Thanks to Hayley of Australia.

Postcard 2
Fragile lagoon in Bateman Sanctuary which is accessed by bike tours from Coral Bay. Ningaloo Coast, Western Australia. This UNESCO World Heritage is inscribed in June 2010. Thanks to Heather of Australia.

Austria - Hungary - Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape

2011-10-18T01:22:00.000-07:00

"The Fertö/Neusiedler Lake area has been the meeting place of different cultures for eight millennia. This is graphically demonstrated by its varied landscape, the result of an evolutionary symbiosis between human activity and the physical environment. The remarkable rural architecture of the villages surrounding the lake and several 18th- and 19th-century palaces adds to the area’s considerable cultural interest." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Hungary Ferto-Hansag
Ferto Hansag Nemzeti Park on the Hungarian side of Ferto-Neusiedlersee. Thanks to Rita of Hungary.

Postcard 2 - Hungary Ferto
Lake Ferto (Neusiedlersee) is a transboundary Hungary-Austria UNESCO World Heritage. Multi-view showing Episcopal Palace, Quarry, Lake and harbor, Mayor's office, Mithras Chapel and Cave. Thanks to Rita of Hungary.

Postcard 3 - Austria Neusiedlersee
An aerial view of the Austrian town of Rust and Lake Neusiedl of Austria and Hungary. This seond largest European steppe lake straddles between Austria and Hungary. It called in German: Neusiedlersee and in Hungarian: Fertő. Nice fauna stamp. Thanks to Rita of Hungary who mailed this great postcard from Austria.

China - Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains

2011-10-12T01:29:00.000-07:00

"Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, home to more than 30% of the world's pandas which are classed as highly endangered, covers 924,500 ha with seven nature reserves and nine scenic parks in the Qionglai and Jiajin Mountains. The sanctuaries constitute the largest remaining contiguous habitat of the giant panda, a relict from the paleo-tropic forests of the Tertiary Era. It is also the species' most important site for captive breeding. The sanctuaries are home to other globally endangered animals such as the red panda, the snow leopard and clouded leopard. They are among the botanically richest sites of any region in the world outside the tropical rainforests, with between 5,000 and 6,000 species of flora in over 1,000 genera." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Tha giant panda has a poor vision but keen senses of smell and hearing. It does fear the cold and does not hibernate. Beautiful stamps used. Thanks to Toni of China. Xie xie.

Postcard 2
Nice postcard bought in Chengdu and mailed from Guiyang by Mingzhuxia. Thanks. Xie Xie.

Bulgaria - Srebarna Nature Reserve

2011-10-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

"The Srebarna Nature Reserve is a freshwater lake adjacent to the Danube and extending over 600 ha. It is the breeding ground of almost 100 species of birds, many of which are rare or endangered. Some 80 other bird species migrate and seek refuge there every winter. Among the most interesting bird species are the Dalmatian pelican, great egret, night heron, purple heron, glossy ibis and white spoonbill." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Biosphere Reserve of Srebarna. Written September 11, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 10, 2011. Thanks to Fidel of Bulgaria.

Postcard 2
A multiview showing closeups of two bird species of Srebarna Nature Reserve. Nice bird stamp used. Thanks to Christina of Bulgaria.

Oman - Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman

2011-10-08T01:19:00.000-07:00

"The property includes five aflaj irrigation systems and is representative of some 3,000 such systems still in use in Oman. The origins of this system of irrigation may date back to AD 500, but archaeological evidence suggests that irrigation systems existed in this extremely arid area as early as 2500 BC. Using gravity, water is channelled from underground sources or springs to support agriculture and domestic use. The fair and effective management and sharing of water in villages and towns is still underpinned by mutual dependence and communal values and guided by astronomical observations. Numerous watchtowers built to defend the water systems form part of the site reflecting the historic dependence of communities on the aflaj system. Threatened by falling level of the underground water table, the aflaj represent an exceptionally well-preserved form of land use.” Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Fajal Daris of Oman. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 2
Daris falaj is the biggest falaj in Oman. Thanks to Claus of Germany who bought this postcard when in Oman.

Germany - St Mary's Cathedral and St Michael's Church at Hildesheim

2011-10-07T02:14:00.000-07:00

"St Michael's Church was built between 1010 and 1020 on a symmetrical plan with two apses that was characteristic of Ottonian Romanesque art in Old Saxony. Its interior, in particular the wooden ceiling and painted stucco-work, its famous bronze doors and the Bernward bronze column, are – together with the treasures of St Mary's Cathedral – of exceptional interest as examples of the Romanesque churches of the Holy Roman Empire." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - St Mary Cathedral
St. Mary's Cathedral of Hildsheim, Germany. Thanks to Anja of Germany.

Postcard 2 - St Michael Cathedral
St. Michaelis, Hildesheim.This church is a former convent and example of architecture and culture during the Holan Roman Empire of Germany Natreus. Nice stamps used. Thanks to "Apperveilchen" of Germany.

Argentina - Jesuit Block and Estancias of Córdoba

2011-10-06T01:10:00.000-07:00

"The Jesuit Block in Córdoba, heart of the former Jesuit Province of Paraguay, contains the core buildings of the Jesuit system: the university, the church and residence of the Society of Jesus, and the college. Along with the five estancias, or farming estates, they contain religious and secular buildings, which illustrate the unique religious, social, and economic experiment carried out in the world for a period of over 150 years in the 17th and 18th centuries." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Multi-view of Estancias Jesuiticas of Cordoba, Argentina. Postmarked Cordoba September 19, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 6, 2011. Thanks to Jane who was visiting Argentina.

Postcard 2
This postcard completes my Argentina UNESCO World Heritage collection. Estancia Santa Catalina of Cordoba, Argentina. Sent inside an envelope of many nice Argentinian stamps. Thanks to Monica of Argentina.

Turkey - Selimiye Mosque Complex at Edirne

2011-10-04T02:14:00.000-07:00

"The square Mosque with its single great dome and four slender minarets, dominates the skyline of the former Ottoman capital of Edirne. Sinan, the most famous of Ottoman architects in the 16th century, considered the complex, which includes madrasas (Islamic schools), a covered market, clock house, outer courtyard and library, to be his best work. The interior decoration using Iznik tiles from the peak period of their production testifies to an art form that remains unsurpassed in this material. The complex is considered to be the most harmonious expression ever achieved of the Ottoman külliye, a group of buildings constructed around a mosque and managed as a single institution." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Panaromic view of Selimiye Mosque - Bir Gorunum, Edirne, Turkiye. Postmarked Edirne September 23, 2011 and arrived in Penang on October 4, 2011.

Zambia - Zimbabwe - Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls

2011-10-04T01:13:00.000-07:00

"These are among the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The Zambezi River, which is more than 2 km wide at this point, plunges noisily down a series of basalt gorges and raises an iridescent mist that can be seen more than 20 km away." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
An awesome view of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Thanks to Thea who was visiting Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia.

Postcard 2
A transboundary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Wow.. Victoria Falls. You can almost hear the thundering waters and feel the mist on your face. A rainbow over one of the greatest waterfalls in the world. Must thank Lenore and Daniel for sending this wonderful postcard from Zimbabwe

USA - Grand Canyon National Park

2011-09-30T02:49:00.000-07:00

"Carved out by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon (nearly 1,500 m deep) is the most spectacular gorge in the world. Located in the state of Arizona, it cuts across the Grand Canyon National Park. Its horizontal strata retrace the geological history of the past 2 billion years. There are also prehistoric traces of human adaptation to a particularly harsh environment." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
A large panaromic postcard of North Rim, Grand Canyon National Park. I went to the North Rim, which is less crowded with tourist than the more easily accessible South Rim. This postcard was mailed at North Rim on September 20, 2011 and arrived in Penang on September 30, 2011. Thanks to Mike and Nancy of USA.

Postcard 2
South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park where the Colorado River continues to carve the walls of the Canyon removing tons of silt every day. Thanks to Buttance of Arizona, USA.

Postcard 3
I have been to the Grand Canyon National Park of Arizona, three times. Visited the North Rim and South Rim as well as during the summer and winter times. Awesome. Bought this postcard there. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

New Caledonia (France) - Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems

2011-09-30T01:17:00.000-07:00

"This serial site comprises six marine clusters that represent the main diversity of coral reefs and associated ecosystems in the French Pacific Ocean archipelago of New Caledonia and one of the three most extensive reef systems in the world. These Lagoons are of exceptional natural beauty. They feature an exceptional diversity of coral and fish species and a continuum of habitats from mangroves to seagrasses with the world’s most diverse concentration of reef structures. The Lagoons of New Caledonia display intact ecosystems, with healthy populations of large predators, and a great number and diversity of big fish. They provide habitat to a number of emblematic or threatened marine species such as turtles, whales or dugongs whose population here is the third largest in the world." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

The six sites classed as Natural World Heritage areas are Grand Lagon Sud, Zone Cotiere Ouest, Zone Cotiere Nord-Est, Grand Lagon Nord, Atoils d'Entrecasteaux, Atoll d'Ouvea et Beautemps-Beaupre.

Postcard 1
Le pont de Mouli, Ouvea in New Caledonia. Nice matching turtle, map and UNESCO WHS stamp used. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 2
A manta ray and reticulated reefs in the West Coast Zone seeward from La Foa of Zone Cotiere Ouest. Thanks to Marie of France.

Postcard 3
Ile des Pins is located Grand Lagon Sud. Great aerial view of Ile des Pins of New Caledonia. Year of Tiger stamp used. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 3
A beautiful multi-view card of this South Pacific island country of New Caledonia (Nouvelle Caledonia). What a beautiful stamp. Thanks to Glenda.

Switzerland - Lavaux, Vineyard Terraces

2011-09-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

"The Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, stretching for about 30 km along the south-facing northern shores of Lake Geneva from the Chateau de Chillon to the eastern outskirts of Lausanne in the Vaud region, cover the lower slopes of the mountainside between the villages and the lake. Although there is some evidence that vines were grown in the area in Roman times, the present vine terraces can be traced back to the 11th century, when Benedictine and Cistercian monasteries controlled the area. It is an outstanding example of a centuries-long interaction between people and their environment, developed to optimize local resources so as to produce a highly valued wine that has always been important to the economy." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Weinbergterrasen un das Dof Sint-Saphorin. Vineyard terrace of Saint Saphorin village, Lavaux. Postcard issued by Swiss Post to commemorate the matching Lavaux UNESCO World Heritage stamps used. Thanks to Zasa of Switzerland.

Postcard 2
Lavaux is located at the edgoe of Lake Ceneva and produces some of the best wines. Nice stamps used. Thanks to Pierre of Switzerland.

Ukraine - The Residence of Bukovinian and Dalmatian Metropolitans

2011-09-29T01:53:00.000-07:00

"The Residence of Bukovinian and Dalmatian Metropolitans (Ukraine) represents a masterful synergy of architectural styles built by Czech architect Josef Hlavka from 1864 to 1882. The property, an outstanding example of 19th-century historicist architecture, also includes a seminary and monastery and is dominated by the domed, cruciform Seminary Church with a garden and park. The complex expresses architectural and cultural influences from the Byzantine period onward and embodies the powerful presence of the Orthodox Church during Habsburg rule, reflecting the Austro-Hungarian Empire policy of religious tolerance." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

The Palatial Compled of Residence of Bukovyna Metropolitans Central Building. It now houses the Department of Foreign Languages, Chernivtsi University. Thanks to Rin of Ukraine who graduated from this university.

China - West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou

2011-09-26T01:48:00.000-07:00

"West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, comprising the West Lake and the hills surrounding its three sides - this inscribed landscape has inspired famous poets, scholars and artists since the 9th century. It comprises numerous temples, pagodas, pavilions, gardens and ornamental trees, as well as causeways and artificial islands. These additions have been made to improve the landscape west of the city of Hangzhou to the south of the Yangtze river. The West Lake has influenced garden design in the rest of China as well as Japan and Korea over the centuries and bears an exceptional testimony to the cultural tradition of improving landscapes to create a series of vistas reflecting an idealised fusion between humans and nature..." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
A famous poetic view of Hangzhou West Lake with carp swimming in the waters. Nice flower stamps used. Thanks to Cheer of China.

Postcard 2
The West Lake of Hangzhou is famous in Chinese literature and must-visit destination. I have been there and was amazed by the beauty and tranquility of the Xihu (West Lake) as described by famous Chinese poets in the past and present. Thanks to Candy Bao for sending this nice card from Hangzhou.

Postcard 3

USA - Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

2011-09-24T04:29:00.000-07:00

"Cahokia Mounds, some 13 km north-east of St Louis, Missouri, is the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. It was occupied primarily during the Mississippian period (800–1400), when it covered nearly 1,600 ha and included some 120 mounds. It is a striking example of a complex chiefdom society, with many satellite mound centres and numerous outlying hamlets and villages. This agricultural society may have had a population of 10–20,000 at its peak between 1050 and 1150. Primary features at the site include Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas, covering over 5 ha and standing 30 m high." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Monks Mound at Cahokia Mounds is the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas. Mississippi river in the background. Thanks to Leslie of Turkey.

Postcard 2
The winter view of Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the new world. Thanks to O'neal who lives near this region in Illinois, USA.

Postcard 3
An illustration of what settlements at Cahokia Mounds may have looked like. Thanks again to O'Neal of USA.

United Kingdom - Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites

2011-09-23T03:02:00.000-07:00

"Stonehenge and Avebury, in Wiltshire, are among the most famous groups of megaliths in the world. The two sanctuaries consist of circles of menhirs arranged in a pattern whose astronomical significance is still being explored. These holy places and the nearby Neolithic sites are an incomparable testimony to prehistoric times." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
The Stonehenge and Avebury landscapes in Wiltshire with over 400 ancient monuments covering 6,500 acres of chalk downland - Stonehenge, Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill and West Kennet Avenue. Thanks to Stefanie of Germany.

Postcard 2
I walked around the Stonehenge. Here are two postcards I bought from there.

Postcard 3

Belize - Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System

2011-09-23T02:21:00.000-07:00

"The coastal area of Belize is an outstanding natural system consisting of the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere, offshore atolls, several hundred sand cays, mangrove forests, coastal lagoons and estuaries. The system’s seven sites illustrate the evolutionary history of reef development and are a significant habitat for threatened species, including marine turtles, manatees and the American marine crocodile. " Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Beautiful underwater world of the Caribbean Sea off Belize - the Belize Barrier Reef Reef. Beautiful stamps used too. Thanks again to Melanie of Belize.

Postcard 2
The Great Blue Hole is a 400 meter karst eroded sink-hole rimmed by living coral. Thanks to Stefanie of Germany.

Bulgaria - Rila Monastery

2011-09-22T01:26:00.000-07:00

"Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by St John of Rila, a hermit canonized by the Orthodox Church. His ascetic dwelling and tomb became a holy site and were transformed into a monastic complex which played an important role in the spiritual and social life of medieval Bulgaria. Destroyed by fire at the beginning of the 19th century, the complex was rebuilt between 1834 and 1862. A characteristic example of the Bulgarian Renaissance (18th–19th centuries), the monument symbolizes the awareness of a Slavic cultural identity following centuries of occupation." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Rila Monastery St. Ivan Rilski. Postmarked August 30, 2011 in Bulgaria and arrived in Penang on September 22, 2011. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France who visiting Bulgaria.

Postcard 2
A beautiful autumn view of Rila Monastery. Nice bird stamps used. Thanks to Christina of Sofia, Bulgaria.

Albania - Butrint

2011-09-20T03:48:00.000-07:00

"Inhabited since prehistoric times, Butrint has been the site of a Greek colony, a Roman city and a bishopric. Following a period of prosperity under Byzantine administration, then a brief occupation by the Venetians, the city was abandoned in the late Middle Ages after marshes formed in the area. The present archaeological site is a repository of ruins representing each period in the city’s development." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
An awesome aerial view of Butrinti - a UNESCO World Heritage site in Albania. Mailed from Saranda on September 3, 2011 and arrived in Penang on September 20, 2011. Thanks to Lilia of Bulgaria.

Postcard 2
View of ancient town of Butrint, Albania. Thanks to Wim.

Jordan - Wadi Rum Protected Area

2011-09-20T01:29:00.000-07:00

"Wadi Rum Protected Area (Jordan). The 74,000-hectare property, inscribed as a mixed natural and cultural site, is situated in southern Jordan, near the border with Saudi Arabia. It features a varied desert landscape consisting of a range of narrow gorges, natural arches, towering cliffs, ramps, massive landslides and caverns. Petroglyphs, inscriptions and archaeological remains in the site testify to 12,000 years of human occupation and interaction with the natural environment. The combination of 25,000 rock carvings with 20,000 inscriptions trace the evolution of human thought and the early development of the alphabet. The site illustrates the evolution of pastoral, agricultural and urban activity in the region." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Wadi Rum postcard is printed in Australia and mailed from Jordan on September 10, 2011 and arrived in Penang on September 20, 2011. Thanks to Elisabeth of Jordan.

Postcard 2
Wadi Rum of Jordan. A new UNESCO World Heritage inscribed in 2011. Postage label printed on July 30, 2011 and arrived in Penang on August 10, 2011. Thanks to Mervat of Jordan.

France - The Causses and the Cévennes, Mediterranean Agro-pastoral Cultural Landscape

2011-09-15T02:50:00.000-07:00

"The 302,319 hectare property, in the southern part of central France, is a mountain landscape interspersed by deep valleys that is representative of the relationship between agro-pastoral systems and their biophysical environment, notably through drailles or drove roads. Villages and substantial stone farmhouses on deep terraces of the Causses reflect the organization of large abbeys from the 11th century. Mont Lozère, inside the property, is one of the last places where summer transhumance is still practiced." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Roquefort sur Soulzon in Aveyron is the Cevennes UNESCO World Heritage core zone. Thanks to Marie of France.

Ethiopia - Rock-Hewn Churches, Lalibela

2011-09-15T01:50:00.000-07:00

"The 11 medieval monolithic cave churches of this 13th-century 'New Jerusalem' are situated in a mountainous region in the heart of Ethiopia near a traditional village with circular-shaped dwellings. Lalibela is a high place of Ethiopian Christianity, still today a place of pilmigrage and devotion." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Bet Giorgis, Lalibela is a UNESCO World Heritage in Ethiopia. Postcard written in Lalibelia on August 10, 2011 and arrived in Penang on September 15, 2011. Thanks to Jordi of Spain.

Postcard 2
Priest at Lalibela, Ethiopia. Thanks to DAO of England for this colorful Ethiopian postcard.

Albania - Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra

2011-09-15T01:10:00.000-07:00

"Berat and Gjirokastra are inscribed as rare examples of an architectural character typical of the Ottoman period. Located in central Albania, Berat bears witness to the coexistence of various religious and cultural communities down the centuries. It features a castle, locally known as the Kala, most of which was built in the 13th century, although its origins date back to the 4th century BC. The citadel area numbers many Byzantine churches, mainly from the 13th century, as well as several mosques built under the Ottoman era which began in 1417. Gjirokastra, in the Drinos river valley in southern Albania, features a series of outstanding two-story houses which were developed in the 17th century. The town also retains a bazaar, an 18th-century mosque and two churches of the same period." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Berati
Pamje nga Berati - View from Berati - a UNESCO World Heritage site in Albania -Shqiperia. Thanks to Lilia of Bulgaria who was visiting.

Postcard 2 - Berat
Lagjia Mangalem, Berat, Albania. Thanks to Luca of Italy.

Postcard 3 - Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is a UNESCO World Heritage in Albania. Nice Albania stamps used including a Gijorkastra Museum and UNESCO stamp. Postcard written on September 2, 2011 in Tirana, Albania and arrived in Penang on September 15, 2011. Thanks to Lilia of Bulgaria who was visiting.

Postcard 4 - Gjirokastra
The Zekat's House, Gjirokastra (1830-1870), Shqiperia - Albania. Thanks to Lucca of Italy.

Switzerland - La Chaux-de-Fonds / Le Locle, watchmaking town planning

2011-09-13T03:40:00.000-07:00

"The site of La Chaux-de-Fonds / Le Locle watchmaking town-planning consists of two towns situated close to one another in a remote environment in the Swiss Jura mountains, on land ill-suited to farming. Their planning and buildings reflect watchmakers’ need of rational organization. Planned in the early 19th century, after extensive fires, the towns owed their existence to this single industry. Their layout along an open-ended scheme of parallel strips on which residential housing and workshops are intermingled reflects the needs of the local watchmaking culture that dates to the 17th century and is still alive today. The site presents outstanding examples of mono-industrial manufacturing-towns which are well preserved and still active. The urban planning of both towns has accommodated the transition from the artisanal production of a cottage industry to the more concentrated factory production of the late 19th and 20th centuries. The town of La Chaux-de-Fonds was described by Karl Marx as a “huge factory-town” in Das Kapital where he analyzed the division of labour in the watchmaking industry of the Jura." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Aerial view of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. This postcard is the 10th Swiss UNESCO World Heritage site and completes my Switzerland UNESCO WHS collection. Thanks to YL and YL who visited this watch making town and mailed this nice postcard.

Belgium - Plantin-Moretus House-Workshops-Museum Complex

2011-09-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

"The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a printing plant and publishing house dating from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Situated in Antwerp, one of the three leading cities of early European printing along with Paris and Venice, it is associated with the history of the invention and spread of typography. Its name refers to the greatest printer-publisher of the second half of the 16th century: Christophe Plantin (c. 1520–89). The monument is of outstanding architectural value. It contains exhaustive evidence of the life and work of what was the most prolific printing and publishing house in Europe in the late 16th century. The building of the company, which remained in activity until 1867, contains a large collection of old printing equipment, an extensive library, invaluable archives and works of art, among them a painting by Rubens." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Old printing press at Museum Plantin-Moretus, Antwerp in Belgium. Thanks to Dave of USA who visited this museum and sent this cool postcard.

Postcard 2
Museum Plantin-Moretus - Prentenkabinet, Antwerpen. Thanks to Marie of France.

Belarus - Estonia - Finland - Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Norway, Russia, Sweden, Ukraine - Struve Geodetic Arc

2011-09-13T01:05:00.000-07:00

"The Struve Arc is a chain of survey triangulations stretching from Hammerfest in Norway to the Black Sea, through 10 countries and over 2,820 km. These are points of a survey, carried out between 1816 and 1855 by the astronomer Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struve, which represented the first accurate measuring of a long segment of a meridian. This helped to establish the exact size and shape of the planet and marked an important step in the development of earth sciences and topographic mapping. It is an extraordinary example of scientific collaboration among scientists from different countries, and of collaboration between monarchs for a scientific cause. The original arc consisted of 258 main triangles with 265 main station points. The listed site includes 34 of the original station points, with different markings, i.e. a drilled hole in rock, iron cross, cairns, or built obelisks." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Urkaine Staraya Nekrasovka
Staraya Nekrasovka is the southernmost station of the Struve Geodetic Arc, located in Ukraine. Nice stamps of lighthouse used. Thanks to Veronika of Ukraine.

Postcard 2 - Finland - Oravivuori
View of Struve Geodetic of Oravivuori of Finland with commemorative stamp of Struve Geodetic Arc. Thanks to Heidi of Finland.

Postcard 3 - Lithuania
Struve Geodetic Arc of Lithuania. Thanks to Niina of Finland.

Postcard 4 - Estonia stamp sheet showing map of Struve Geodetic Arc
Postcard of Tallinn, Estonia with stamp showing the map of Struve Geodetic Arc. Thanks to Heidi of Estonia.

Postcard 5 - Estonia
View of Tartu Observatory. Nice stamps used. Thanks to Elina of Estonia.

Postcard 6 - Finland - Alatornion Kirkko Church
Struve Geodetic Arc goes through 10 European countries with 6 stations in Finland. This station of Alatornion Kirkko Church is one of them. View of the location of the church overlooking the river into Sweden. Nice stamps. Thanks to Sini of Finland.

Germany - Mines of Rammelsberg, Historic Town of Goslar and Upper Harz Water Management System

2011-09-08T01:01:00.000-07:00

"The Upper Harz mining water management system, which lies south of the Rammelsberg mines and the town of Goslar, has been developed over a period of some 800 years to assist in the process of extracting ore for the production of non-ferrous metals. Its construction was first undertaken in the Middle Ages by Cistercian monks, and it was then developed on a vast scale from the end of the 16th century until the 19th century. It is made up of an extremely complex but perfectly coherent system of artificial ponds, small channels, tunnels and underground drains. It enabled the development of water power for use in mining and metallurgical processes. It is a major site for mining innovation in the western world." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Upper Harz Water Management System
Schone Grube au dem Harz. Thanks to Janet of Germany.

Postcard 2 - Mines of Rammelsberg
Rammelsberg Mine. Thanks to Anja of Germany who visited this mine.

Postcard 3 - Historic Town of Goslar
Nice multi-view of Goslar. Cool stamps including UNESCO stamp. Thanks to Michaela of Germany.

Indonesia - Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra

2011-09-06T01:14:00.000-07:00

"Provinces of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam, Sumatra Utara (North Sumatra), Jambi, Sumatra Barat (West Sumatra), Sumatra Selatan (South Sumatra), Bengkulu, and Lampung on the Island of Sumatra." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Rafflessia of Bukit Tinggi, Sumatra. Nice unique combination of Malaysia and Indonesia stamps used for this joint issue of stamps of Malaysia-Indonesia. Thanks to the creativity of Shinta of Indonesia.

Postcard 2
Rafflesia is one of the largest flowers and found in the jungles of Sumatra.

Postcards 3
I visited Medan and Lake Toba in North Sumatra but did not get a chance to visit the nearby Bukit Lawang Rehabilation Center, Bohorok, North Sumatra. I have met before a Japanese photographer who showed me a photo an orangutan in the tree eating durian - a thorny thick outer skin aromatic fruit. Sumatran tigers are also a threatened species. Orangutan rehabilation center in Bukit Lawang, near Bohorok, North Sumatra. Thanks to Ammy of Singapore who was visiting North Sumatra.

Postcard 4
The Sumatran orangutan is a different species from the Borneo orangutan. Thanks to Indriani of Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia.

Postcard 5
Another postcard of Sumatran orangutan. Thanks again to Indriani of Medan, North Sumatra.

Postcard 6
Sumatran tigers are endangered species. I got this postcard when I was in Medan, Indonesia.

Italy - Switzerland - Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes

2011-09-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

"Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes, brings together two historic railway lines that cross the Swiss Alps through two passes. Opened in 1904, the Albula line in the north western part of the property is 67 km long. It features an impressive set of structures including 42 tunnels and covered galleries and 144 viaducts and bridges. The 61 km Bernina pass line features 13 tunnels and galleries and 52 viaducts and bridges. The property is exemplary of the use of the railway to overcome the isolation of settlements in the Central Alps early in the 20th century, with a major and lasting socio-economic impact on life in the mountains. It constitutes an outstanding technical, architectural and environmental ensemble and embodies architectural and civil engineering achievements, in harmony with the landscapes through which they pass." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Italy - Bernina Express
Bernina Express at the Alp Grum Station, 2091 m. Thanks to YLs who boarded the Bernina Expressway at Tirano, Italy.

Postcard 2 - Switzerland - Albula
Amazing alpine railway line with incredible viaducts. Beautiful tree stamps. Thanks to Daniela of Switzerland.

Postcard 3 - Switzerland - Albula
Another beautiful postcard showing the Landwasser-Viaduct. A bridge of the Albula line and the railway in German is Die rhatische Bahn in the east part of Switzerland. Thanks to Pierre of Switzerland.

Austria , France , Germany , Italy , Slovenia , Switzerland - Prehistoric Pile dwellings around the Alps

2011-08-27T03:12:00.000-07:00

"This serial property of 111 small individual sites encompasses the remains of prehistoric pile-dwelling (or stilt house) settlements in and around the Alps built from around 5000 to 500 B.C. on the edges of lakes, rivers or wetlands. Excavations, only conducted in some of the sites, have yielded evidence that provides insight into life in prehistoric times during the Neolithic and Bronze Age in Alpine Europe and the way communities interacted with their environment. Fifty-six of the sites are located in Switzerland. The settlements are a unique group of exceptionally well-preserved and culturally rich archaeological sites, which constitute one of the most important sources for the study of early agrarian societies in the region."Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Switzerland
Maquette du village lacustre de Cortallilod. Age du Bronze final (1000 av. J.-C.). Museum model of the Prehistoric Pile Dwellings in Switzerland. Thanks to Zasa of Switzerland.

Postcard 2 - Germany
Pfahlbauten, Bodensee, Germany. A reconstruction of a Prehistoric Pile Dwelling in Germany. Thanks to Violet of Germany.

Postcard 3 - Germany
Alpine dwellings at Unteruhldingen, Bodensee, Germany. Thanks to Janet of Germany.

Mali - Tomb of Askia

2011-08-27T02:13:00.000-07:00

"The dramatic 17-m pyramidal structure of the Tomb of Askia was built by Askia Mohamed, the Emperor of Songhai, in 1495 in his capital Gao. It bears testimony to the power and riches of the empire that flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries through its control of the trans-Saharan trade, notably in salt and gold. It is also a fine example of the monumental mud-building traditions of the West African Sahel. The complex, including the pyramidal tomb, two flat-roofed mosque buildings, the mosque cemetery and the open-air assembly ground, was built when Gao became the capital of the Songhai Empire and after Askia Mohamed had returned from Mecca and made Islam the official religion of the empire." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Le Tombeau des Askia - Patriomine Mondial. The Tomb of Askia. Thanks to Madeliene who visited Mali and bought this postcard and sending it inside an envelope from Guinea with beautiful Guinea stamps. Thanks so much.

Germany - Fagus Factory in Alfeld

2011-08-27T01:31:00.000-07:00

"Fagus Factory in Alfeld (Germany) is a 10-building complex - began around 1910 to the design of Walter Gropius, which is a landmark in the development of modern architecture and industrial design. Serving all stages of manufacture, storage and dispatch of lasts used by the shoe industry, the complex, which is still operational today, is situated in Alfeld an der Leine in Lower Saxony. With its groundbreaking vast expanses of glass panels and functionalist aesthetics, the complex foreshadowed the work of the Bauhaus school and is a landmark in the development of architecture in Europe and North America." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Fagus-Werk, 1911 Von Walter Gropius Erbaut, sit dem 25 Juni 2011, UNESCO Welterbe. Thanks to Joanna of Poland who visited the Fagus factory and exhibition at Alfeld.

Spain - Works of Antoni Gaudí

2011-08-22T01:39:00.000-07:00

"Seven properties built by the architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926) in or near Barcelona testify to Gaudí’s exceptional creative contribution to the development of architecture and building technology in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These monuments represent an eclectic, as well as a very personal, style which was given free reign in the design of gardens, sculpture and all decorative arts, as well as architecture. The seven buildings are: Casa Vicens; Gaudí’s work on the Nativity façade and Crypt of La Sagrada Familia; Casa Batlló; Crypt in Colonia Güell." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

The seven listed sites are:
1 - Parque Güell, Barcelona
2 - Palacio Güell, Barcelona
3 - Casa Mila, Barcelona
4 - Casa Vicens, Barcelona
5 - Nativity Façade and Crypt of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
6 - Casa Batlló, Barcelona
7 - Crypt at the Colònia Güell, Santa Coloma de Cervelló

Postcard 1
CasaVicens is a family residence in Barcelona designed for the industrialist Manuel Vicens. Thanks to Fabienne of Spain.

Postcard 2
Park Guell - a fascinating colorful work of art. Written July 13, 2011 and arrived in Penang on July 26, 2011. Thanks to Fabienne of Spain.

Postcard 3
Colonia Guell, outside of Barcelona. THanks to Fabienne of Spain.

Postcard 4- Casa Mila or La Pedrera
Roof top view of Casa Mila or La Pedrera, Barcelona. Thanks to Loly of Spain.

Postcard 5 - La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona. Thanks to Sandra of Barcelona, Spain. Muchos gracias.

Postcard 6 - Barcelona Casa Batlló
Barcelona Casa Batlló. Barcelona is famous for her architecture and hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1992. Received this postcard from Spain.

Italy - Mantua and Sabbioneta

2011-08-19T04:25:00.000-07:00

"Mantua and Sabbioneta, in the Po valley, in the north of Italy, represent two aspects of Renaissance town planning: Mantua shows the renewal and extension of an existing city, while 30 km away, Sabbioneta represents the implementation of the period’s theories about planning the ideal city. Typically, Mantua’s layout is irregular with regular parts showing different stages of its growth since the Roman period and includes many medieval edifices among them an 11th century rotunda and a Baroque theatre. Sabbioneta, created in the second half of the 16th century under the rule of one person, Vespasiano Gonzaga Colonna, can be described as a single-period city and has a right angle grid layout. Both cities offer exceptional testimonies to the urban, architectural and artistic realizations of the Renaissance, linked through the visions and actions of the ruling Gonzaga family. The two towns are important for the value of their architecture and for their prominent role in the dissemination of Renaissance culture. The ideals of the Renaissance, fostered by the Gonzaga family, are present in the towns’ morphology and architecture." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Sabbioneta
Nice aerial view of Sabbioneta. Thanks to Paola of Italy.

Postcard 2 - Mantua
Nice postcard sent from Mantova - Mantua. Thanks to Mat. Grazie.

France - Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Remi and Palace of Tau, Reims

2011-08-19T03:33:00.000-07:00

"The outstanding handling of new architectural techniques in the 13th century, and the harmonious marriage of sculptural decoration with architecture, has made Notre-Dame in Reims one of the masterpieces of Gothic art. The former abbey still has its beautiful 9th-century nave, in which lie the remains of Archbishop St Rémi (440–533), who instituted the Holy Anointing of the kings of France. The former archiepiscopal palace known as the Tau Palace, which played an important role in religious ceremonies, was almost entirely rebuilt in the 17th century." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Cathedrale de Reims. Cathedral of Reims. Thanks to Michael of Luxembourg who was drinking champagne in the front of the cathedral.

Postcard 2
Le Palais du Tau, Reims, Marne, France. Thanks to Chiara of Italy.

France - Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island

2011-08-19T01:32:00.000-07:00

"The Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island site coincides with the core zone of La Réunion National Park. The property covers more than 100,000 ha or 40 % of La Réunion, an island comprising two adjoining volcanic massifs located in the south-west of the Indian Ocean. Dominated by two towering volcanic peaks, massive walls and three cliff-rimmed cirques, the property includes a great variety of rugged terrain and impressive escarpments, forested gorges and basins creating a visually striking landscape. It is the natural habitat for a wide diversity of plants, presenting a high level of endemism. There are subtropical rainforests, cloud forests and heaths creating a remarkable and visually appealing mosaic of ecosystems and landscape features." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Le Piton de la Fournaise, Reunion island. Nice stamps including a matching Piton volcano stamp. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 2
The rugged features of the Pitons of Reunion. Reunion is located near Madagascar in the Indian Ocean. It is administered by France and uses French stamps. Merci beaucoup to Isa for sending this wonderful postcard.

Postcard 3
A breath-taking view of the Pitons and Saint Denis, the capital on the northern most of Reunion Island. Thanks again to Mike, Lisa and Anna.

Peru - Huascarán National Park

2011-08-18T02:32:00.000-07:00

"Situated in the Cordillera Blanca, the world's highest tropical mountain range, Mount Huascarán rises to 6,768 m above sea-level. The deep ravines watered by numerous torrents, the glacial lakes and the variety of the vegetation make it a site of spectacular beauty. It is the home of such species as the spectacled bear and the Andean condor." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Parque Nacional Huascaran, Ancash, Peru. Nice beetle stamp. Thanks to Jane of Peru.

Belgium - Neolithic Flint Mines at Spiennes (Mons)

2011-08-18T01:34:00.000-07:00

"The Neolithic flint mines at Spiennes, covering more than 100 ha, are the largest and earliest concentration of ancient mines in Europe. They are also remarkable for the diversity of technological solutions used for extraction and for the fact that they are directly linked to a settlement of the same period." Source: UNESCO World Heritage
Mons Spiennes. This postcard completes my Belgium UNESCO World Heritage collection. Nice bird stamps. Thanks to Gilles of Belgium.

China - Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties

2011-08-12T01:10:00.000-07:00

"It represents the addition of three Imperial Tombs of the Qing Dynasty in Liaoning to the Ming tombs inscribed in 2000 and 2003. The Three Imperial Tombs of the Qing Dynasty in Liaoning Province include the Yongling Tomb, the Fuling Tomb, and the Zhaoling Tomb, all built in the 17th century. Constructed for the founding emperors of the Qing Dynasty and their ancestors, the tombs follow the precepts of traditional Chinese geomancy and fengshui theory. They feature rich decoration of stone statues and carvings and tiles with dragon motifs, illustrating the development of the funerary architecture of the Qing Dynasty. The three tomb complexes, and their numerous edifices, combine traditions inherited from previous dynasties and new features of Manchu civilization." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - Imperial Mausoleum of Ming Dynasty, Fengyang County
A nice addition to my UNESCO World Heritage collection of China Imperial Tombs of Ming and Qing Dynasties. Thanks to Wang of China.

Postcard 2- Qing Dynasty - Eastern Tombs - Xiaoling Tomb
Received 5 different Ming-Qing Dynasties Imperial Tombs postcards from Clement of China. Thanks - xie xie.

Postcard 3 - Ming Dynasty - Sacred Way to Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang Tomb, Nanjing
The Sacred Way to the first Ming Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang tomb is located in southern slope of Purple Mountains, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. The first two Ming Emperors were buried in Nanjing which was the capital but later the capital moved to Beijing.

Postcard 4 - Ming Dynasty - Yongling Tomb, Beijing

Postcard 5 - Ming Dyansty - Changling Tombs - Emperor Zhu Di

Postcard 6 - Ming Dyansty - Xianling Tomb, Zhongxiang, Hubei

Postcard 7 - Qing Dynasty - Emperor Shunzhi Tomb
Path leading to the tomb of first Emperor of Qing Dynasty Shunzhi located in Liaoning of China. Three nice stamps used. Thanks to Huang of China.

Postcard 8 - Ming Dynasty - Imperial Tomb
From my postcard set of World Heritages of China that I bought in Beijing.

Hungary - Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue

2011-08-09T01:07:00.000-07:00

"This site has the remains of monuments such as the Roman city of Aquincum and the Gothic castle of Buda, which have had a considerable influence on the architecture of various periods. It is one of the world's outstanding urban landscapes and illustrates the great periods in the history of the Hungarian capital." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Buda Royal Palace, Budapest, Hungary. Thanks to Karr of Hungary.

Postcard 2
Multi-views of Budapest, the capital of Hungary. Thanks to Willy B for this cool card from Budapest.

Sri Lanka - Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

2011-08-08T01:05:00.000-07:00

"Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993. It comprises, besides the Brahmanic monuments built by the Cholas, the monumental ruins of the fabulous garden-city created by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Polonnaruwa, Sri Landa. Nice stamps used. Thanks to Ravi of Sri Lanka.

Postcard 2
Polonnaruwa was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and the capital city of King Vijayabahu. Thanks to Zeeli of Sri Lanka.

France - Provins, Town of Medieval Fairs

2011-07-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

"The fortified medieval town of Provins is situated in the former territory of the powerful Counts of Champagne. It bears witness to early developments in the organization of international trading fairs and the wool industry. The urban structure of Provins, which was built specifically to host the fairs and related activities, has been well preserved." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Received 2 Provins postcards inside an envelope from Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 1

Postcard 2

Postcard 3
Panaromic view of Provins - a nice postcard with UNESCO World Heritage logo. Thanks to Jean-Pierre of France.

Postcard 4
Provins in Seine-et-Marne, France. Thankis to Anne of Germany.

Brazil - Iguaçu National Park

2011-07-27T03:07:00.000-07:00

"The park shares with Iguazú National Park in Argentina one of the world’s largest and most impressive waterfalls, extending over some 2,700 m. It is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna, among them the giant otter and the giant anteater. The clouds of spray produced by the waterfall are conducive to the growth of lush vegetation." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Cataratas do Iguacu, Foz do Iguacu. Iguazu Falls on Brazil side. Thanks to Rodrigo of Brazil.

Postcard 2
Great postcard of Iguazu Falls (Foz do Iguacu) of Parana, Brazil.

Romania - Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania

2011-07-27T02:25:00.000-07:00

"These Transylvanian villages with their fortified churches provide a vivid picture of the cultural landscape of southern Transylvania. The seven villages inscribed, founded by the Transylvanian Saxons, are characterized by a specific land-use system, settlement pattern and organization of the family farmstead that have been preserved since the late Middle Ages. They are dominated by their fortified churches, which illustrate building styles from the 13th to the 16th century." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Multi-view of Beirtan, Mosna, Valea Villor, Brazna, Calnic, Viscri Fortified Churches (clockwise from top left). Thanks to Daniela of Romania.

Postcard 2
The fortified church of Biertan, Sibiu which is one of those listed for UNESCO World Heritage. Thanks to Raluca of Romania.

Panama - Archaeological Site of Panamá Viejo and Historic District of Panamá

2011-07-25T01:01:00.000-07:00

"Founded in 1519 by the conquistador Pedrarías Dávila, Panamá Viejo is the oldest European settlement on the Pacific coast of the Americas. It was laid out on a rectilinear grid and marks the transference from Europe of the idea of a planned town. Abandoned in the mid-17th century, it was replaced by a ‘new town’ (the ‘Historic District’), which has also preserved its original street plan, its architecture and an unusual mixture of Spanish, French and early American styles. The Salón Bolívar was the venue for the unsuccessful attempt made by El Libertador in 1826 to establish a multinational continental congress." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Ruins of old Panama Cathedral of Panama Viejo. Thanks to Christina of Panama.

Postcard 2
Cool aerial view of historic district of Panama city. Thanks to "TheStumps".

United Kingdom - City of Bath

2011-07-23T02:24:00.000-07:00

"Founded by the Romans as a thermal spa, Bath became an important centre of the wool industry in the Middle Ages. In the 18th century, under George III, it developed into an elegant town with neoclassical Palladian buildings, which blend harmoniously with the Roman baths.

The Roman remains, especially the Temple of Sulis Minerva and the baths complex (based around the hot springs at the heart of the Roman city of Aquae Sulis, which have remained at the heart of the City’s development ever since) are amongst the most famous and important Roman remains north of the Alps, and marked the beginning of Bath’s history as a spa town. The Georgian city reflects the ambitions of John Wood Senior, Ralph Allen and Richard ‘Beau’ Nash to make Bath into one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with architecture and landscape combined harmoniously for the enjoyment of the spa town’s cure takers. The Neo-classical style of the public buildings (such as the Assembly Rooms and the Pump Room) harmonises with the grandiose proportions of the monumental ensembles (such as Queen Square, Circus, and Royal Crescent) and collectively reflects the ambitions, particularly social, of the spa city in the 18th century. The individual Georgian buildings reflect the profound influence of Palladio, and their collective scale, style, and the organisation of the spaces between buildings epitomises the success of architects such as the John Woods, Robert Adam, Thomas Baldwin, and John Palmer in transposing Palladio’s ideas to the scale of a complete city, situated in a hollow in the hills and built to a Picturesque landscape aestheticism creating a strong garden city feel, more akin to the 19th century garden cities than the 17th century Renaissance cities. Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1 - The Circus, Bath
The Circus is John Wood the elder's greatest work. Thanks to Constanze of United Kingdom.

Postcard 2- The Roman Baths, Bath
Views of the Great Bath, the Circular Bath, the King's Bath. Card bought at Bath.

Bosnia Herzegovina - Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad

2011-07-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

"The Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge of Višegrad across the Drina River in the east of Bosnia and Herzegovina was built at the end of the 16th century by the court architect Mimar Koca Sinan on the orders of Grand Vizier Mehmed Paša Sokolović. Characteristic of the apogee of Ottoman monumental architecture and civil engineering, the bridge has 11 masonry arches with spans of 11 m to 15 m, and an access ramp at right angles with four arches on the left bank of the river. The 179.5 m long bridge is a representative masterpiece of Sinan, one of the greatest architects and engineers of the classical Ottoman period and a contemporary of the Italian Renaissance, with which his work may be compared. The unique elegance of proportion and monumental nobility of the whole site bear witness to the greatness of this style of architecture." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Visegrad Bridge over Drina River. Thanks to Sabrina of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Postcard 2
An Ottoman monuemental architecture in Visegrad, Mehmed Pasa Sokolovic Bridge. Thanks to Curtis of UK.

Italy - Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with "The Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci

2011-07-21T02:02:00.000-07:00

"The refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie forms an integral part of this architectural complex, begun in Milan in 1463 and reworked at the end of the 15th century by Bramante. On the north wall is The Last Supper, the unrivalled masterpiece painted between 1495 and 1497 by Leonardo da Vinci, whose work was to herald a new era in the history of art." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Church of Santa Maria dell Grazie, Milan. Thanks to Valentina of Italy.

Postcard 2
This world famous painting of the "Last Supper" by Leonardo da Vinci. In 1943, a bomb destoyed part of the convent of the church but the painting survived. Thanks to Di of Italy. Grazie.

Mongolia - Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape

2011-07-21T01:37:00.000-07:00

"The 121,967-ha Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape encompasses an extensive area of pastureland on both banks of the Orkhon River and includes numerous archaeological remains dating back to the 6th century. The site also includes Kharkhorum, the 13th- and 14th-century capital of Chingis (Genghis) Khan’s vast Empire. Collectively the remains in the site reflect the symbiotic links between nomadic, pastoral societies and their administrative and religious centres, and the importance of the Orkhon valley in the history of central Asia. The grassland is still grazed by Mongolian nomadic pastoralists.” Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Postcard 1
Okhon Waterfall. Thanks to Marnie of Finland who visited Mongolia and bought this postcard.

Postcard 2
View of confluence of Orkhon River and Selenge River. Thanks to Sini of Finland who bought this postcard when visiting Mongolia.

Canary Islands - Spain - Garajonay National Park

2011-07-18T01:34:00.000-07:00

"Laurel forest covers some 70% of this park, situated in the middle of the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands archipelago. The presence of springs and numerous streams assures a lush vegetation resembling that of the Tertiary, which, due to climatic changes, has largely disappeared from southern Europe." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Bosque del Cedro - Parque Nacional de Garajonay, La Gomera. Nice multi-view of Garajonay National Park. Thanks to Ave of Canary Islands. Postmarked Las Palmas June 22, 2011 and arrived in Penang on July 18, 2011.

Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley

2011-07-16T01:59:00.000-07:00

"The Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley , a natural property of outstanding beauty, comprises three inter-linked relatively shallow lakes (Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita) in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya and covers a total area of 32,034 hectares. The property is home to 13 globally threatened bird species and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. It is the single most important foraging site for the lesser flamingo anywhere, and a major nesting and breeding ground for great white pelicans. The property features sizeable mammal populations, including black rhino, Rothschild's giraffe, greater kudu, lion, cheetah and wild dogs and is valuable for the study of ecological processes of major importance." Source: UNESCO World Heritage

An aerial view of thousands of flamingoes on Lake Nakuru. Thanks to Catty of South Africa who visited Kenya and sent this postcard. Postmarked July 6, 2011 and arrived in Penang on July 16, 2011.