UNESCO - Holy Trinity Column In Olomouc, Czech Republic

This column, built in the 18th century for religious reasons, is an outstanding example of central European Baroque style. Its 35 meters high and its iconographic basis lies in the Book Of Revelation. The impressive gilded copper top shows the nominal Holy Trinity accompanied by the archangel Gabriel.

I have received both these cards within a few days, the first from a tag, the second a very thoughtful gesture from a dear postcrossing friend who even used a matching stamp - alas this one managed to get wet and damaged on its short passage from the Czech Republic :( I guess these things happen..! Thank you both laguna and Radim :))

Mucha - Pole Star

This is almost the true size of the stunning Mucha decorative panel postcard from the series The Moon and the Stars from 1902, representing the Pole Star. 'The figure appears to be sheltering from the bright light resonating at the centre of the composition.' Simply loving it, thanks so much Liba!

UNESCO - Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

This fantastic view of Kathmandu Valley was sent to me some years ago by Ash while on his travels through Asia. I suppose this may and may not be an Unesco card, as it doesn't show the actual cultural sites which it is famous for...
But here is a recent postcard that I have received via vacation RR!

One of the aforementioned cultural sites is Swayambhunath Stupa, with Buddha's eyes and eyebrows painted on, and underneath a symbol of unity. It is the oldest Buddhist monument in the valley and a part of a religious ensemble. Many thanks to karas, and the stamp and cancellation are also great! (i've never received last postcard sent to me from nepal so this made me that extra bit happy..!)

UNESCO - Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries, China

The sanctuaries in the Qionglai and Jiajin Mountains are home to this highly endangered species, as well as some others like red panda, snow leopard or clouded leopard. Mt Siguniang is one of the areas where pandas live in their natural habitat and have improved conditions for captive breeding. The estimates say that there are between 1500-2000 individuals living in the wild; not an impressive number, but it is suggested that the number is on the rise. Fingers crossed!

Thank you Kun and Pro for these gorgeous cards :))

UNESCO - Prambanan Temple Compounds, Indonesia

 

Situated in central Java and dating from the 9th century, Prambanan Temples are dedicated to the great three divinities - Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Only the central compound consists of the amazing number of 240 temples! Thank you Shinta for this lovely view - and great stamps as always (the top right one showing a relief from Prambanan) :))

UNESCO - Sacred Sites And Pilgrimage Routes In The Kii Mountain Range, Japan

I was overwhelmed with beauty when I received this card for the Japan RR...I immediately imagined how spiritual a place like this must be. Seiganto-ji is a Tendai Buddhist temple built near the picturesque Nachi Falls. The second view is of the Okumotorigoe pilgrimage path and the stone circles represent the spots where the gods of Kumano were sitting and chatting. Thank you Hama and Ai :) (notice the supercute stamp for Letter-Writing Day!)

 

In addition, a map showing all the routes. Wouldnt it be great to walk along them one day..?!

UNESCO - Curonian Spit, Russia

The southern portion of Curonian Spit runs through Kaliningrad Oblast in Russia (the northern is in Lithuania). Trees here are very important in preventing soil erosion - they grow in a peculiar fashion dont they? Thank you for this view Hiyori :)

UNESCO - Historic Centre Of Telč, Czech Republic

This wonderful romantic image shows 16th century houses in southern Moravian town Telč. Many thanks to Štepanka, and the lovely stamps fit right in!