GR-112432

 Almost 20 years of postcrossing and only 3 officials from Greece. I loved that Faye wrote so much on such a limited space. In a few sentences, she told me everything I needed to know about the Heptapyrgion or Yedi Kule, the Castle of Thessaloniki, located in the Old Town.

 

GR-112432, sent by Faye.

The fortress of Heptapyrgion is one of the best well-preserved fortification monuments in Greece, a symbol of the power of the city of Thessaloniki, but also a site with a heavy historical impact due to its use as a prison in recent years.

The fortress has towered over the city of Thessaloniki, Greece, for over 1,000 years. It was first constructed during the Byzantine era (330 AD to 1453 AD), although this most recent version was rebuilt by the Ottomans after they conquered the city in the 1400s.
After the Ottoman invasion, Heptapyrgion remained a prominent point within Thessaloniki’s acropolis. It was under the military’s control, becoming the residence for the city’s military advisor and a garrison for about 300 troops. But by the 19th century, the military’s interest in the fort had dwindled. It was soon converted into a prison.
To the Greeks, Heptapyrgion is haunted by memories of turbulent periods within their recent history. The fortress held political prisoners during troubled times like the fascist dictatorship of 1936, the years of Nazi occupation and the civil war that followed it, and the seven year-long military junta that began in 1967. Those interned there faced harsh conditions. Torture was common, and hundreds of inmates were executed at an infamous spot not far from the fortress. - in: https://www.thessalonikitourism.gr

 

Happy Postcrossing from Finland

 A few weeks ago I won a lottery on IG, hosted by Päivi, and one of the prizes was this card, a new one in my Happy Postcrossing collection.

 

www.papersisters.de

Finland, the country of the lakes, Santa Claus, saunas and if you're lucky, you might see the northern lights. The country is home to a few dear friends and it was in the summer cottage of one of them, that I tried the karelian pie. 

Mulhouse - France

 This is not my 1st card from Mulhouse but I don't know much about the city. Heidi has been to the city to play in a tournament, last June. I don't know if she had enough time to explore the city but she had time to send a few cards.

Mulhouse is a lively Alsatian town with a flourishing industrial and textile past: it boasts a beautiful historical centre and a number of museums second only to Paris.

 

Mulhouse in Alsace is often associated with the image of a grey industrial city due to its manufacturing and commercial importance. Instead, the city offers its visitors a beautiful historical centre full of old frescoed buildings, a series of magnificent museums, a street art itinerary and a lively and expressive cultural scene that sets it apart from other Alsatian cities. In addition, Mulhouse can be considered the ideal starting point for exploring the region: many even choose it as a base for visiting Alsace, thanks to its proximity to the main attractions in the area, its wide choice of cheap accommodation and its proximity to the airport. - in: https://www.franceguide.info

Poitiers - France

Poitiers is the capital of the Vienne department and also of the Poitou-Charentes region, in west-central France.  The centre of town is picturesque and its streets include predominant historical architecture, especially religious architecture and especially from the Romanesque period. 

In the heart of the cobbled streets of the city, is a true gem of Romanesque art: Notre-Dame-la-Grande Church.

 

Photo: Sénalf

Poitiers was a quick stop during a road trip all the way from the Netherlands to Portugal. Óscar only had time to have a coffee in front of this beautiful.

 Mentioned as early as the 10th centuryNotre-Dame-la-Grande was completely rebuilt in the 11th century and then consecrated in 1086 by the future Pope Urban II.
At the beginning of the 12th century, the building was enlarged and the famous facade carved takes shape. Since then, the church has survived the centuries, resisted conflicts and urban transformations, and has been beautified thanks to successive restorations. - in: https://www.visitpoitiers.fr

 

Cliché: Pierre Morisan

On this card sent by Damien is possible to see a detail of the west facade of the church.

When you approach the Church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande, the striking facade instantly catches your eye.
Carved in the XIIrd century, the facade reads like a picture book: The frieze above the arches of the portals illustrates the story of the Bible from the original sin with Adam and Eve, until the birth of Jesus. - in: https://www.tourisme-vienne.com

Monthly Fav. Surprise RR * April '26

I was still missing one card to have the 4 cards of  the MFS April, and it finally arrived in June.

 

 Tanya always sends me churches. I've quite a few church cards from Belarus in my favs but I've never seen this one before.

The catholic Church of Saint John the Baptist is located in the village of Mscibava. It stands as a prominent architectural landmark in the village, which boasts a rich, centuries-old local history dating back to the Middle Ages.

www.papersisters.de

Ni Hao! Happy Postcrossing from China, even thought Karissa sent the card from USA. That's really not important, this is a new HP in my collection. 

About 1,4 billion people call the Peoples Republic of China home. The combination of a long history and traditions and a very modern presence makes it an exciting place to discover. The Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army and iconic Giant Panda are just some ambassadors. Chinese New Year celebrations continue for days and are held all over the world. 2026 marks the Year of the Horse.

I believe that my very 1st card of China was a card of this lake, Erhai. Xinyi said it is a UNESCO site but it actually is part of the Dali-Cangshan UNESCO Global Geopark, which in turn is on the UNESCO Tentative list.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Plateau,’Erhai Lake is the second largest lake in Yunnan Province and the seventh biggest freshwater lake in China, by area and water storage. Formed in a rift depression, Erhai Lake has been known since ancient times as the "flawless jade among mountains" due to the color and clarity of its waters.
Stretching 42 kilometres from north to south and 3.9 kilometres from east to west, it covers an area of more than 250 square kilometres, with the deepest point reaching 21.5 metres.
In Dali, locals regard Erhai Lake as their ‘mother lake.’ Hence why it is so important in the region and an unmissable tourism spot. - in: https://www.visityunnanchina.com

 

I'm more likely to find myself on a beach taking sunset photos than lying on the sand sunbathing. 

If beaches are your weakness then Malaysia should sit right at the top of your vacation wish list. Malaysia’s east coast is a great destination for getting a dose of reliable, relaxing sun, sand and sea. This corner of the country, separated from the frenetic trading ports of the south and west by dense jungle, has its own distinct culture, rooted in traditional fishing and farming. Just under an hour by plane from Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Terengganu is a bustling modern town with several laid back beach resorts dotted along the nearby coast, including one of our absolute favourites: Tanjung Jara. Even though this coast has its fair share of mass tourism, it's a great place to come if you want some simple, slower-paced beach bliss. - in: https://www.selectiveasia.com

This card was sent by Beatrice.

US-12403362

 Tybee Island Light is Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse, and was one of the first public structures in the state.

 

Photo by: Ben Padgett

US-12403362, sent by Geoff.

Ordered by General James Oglethorpe, Governor of the 13th colony, in 1736, the Tybee Lighthouse has been guiding mariners safe entrance into the Savannah River for over 270 years. The Tybee Island Light Station is one of America’s most intact having all of its historic support buildings on its five-acre site. Rebuilt several times the current light station displays its 1916 day mark with 178 stairs and a First Order Fresnel lens. - in: https://www.tybeeisland.com

MX-85284

 In almost 20 years of postcrossing, this is my 1st official card from Mexico and I just love it. You can't go wrong with a postcard of a beautiful church.

Aguascalientes is the capital city of one of the smallest in Mexico, located in North-Central Mexico. 

The Aguascalientes Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a historic landmark located in Aguascalientes.

 

MX-85284, sent by Rose.

Construction of this stunning Baroque-style cathedral began in the late 16th century and was completed in the 18th century. The cathedral is renowned for its twin towers, intricate facade, and the beautiful interior that houses several significant religious artworks. It stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, attracting both worshippers and tourists alike. The cathedral is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a symbol of the historical and cultural evolution of Aguascalientes. - in: https://ontheroadin.ca

Beaches in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a diverse array of islands, from world-class diving spots to laid-back tropical retreats. But to avoid ruining a trip to any Malaysian beach, is probably better not visit the east coast of the country between November and March, which is the period of the monsoon season.

Yacine Collection

MY-94072, send by Dybb.

Malaysia's beaches are noticeably different from those in other parts of the world. They are often less differentiated from the shoreline than those of the Caribbean, for example, tending instead to be almost nestled up against the lush forests that this nation is famous for. The color palette is different as well golden sands and emerald waters imbue Malaysian beaches with an air of succulent sweetness that isn't found in the cool whites and blues of many western strands. 

The result is that these beaches impart a very different sensation, a sense of languid peace and a distinct feeling that the division between land and sea is less a sharp line than a smooth continuum. - in: http://malaysia.tourism-asia.net

MY-22554, sent by Muhamad.
Another day in a Malaysian island paradise where de blue sky float above the emerald green waters of unspoiled beaches.

Batu Caves - Malaysia

I got my 1st card of the Batu Caves in 2015, depicting the Thaipusam festival, which is celebrated every year between January and February. 

Last week, I've received a 2nd card from there. Kristiina, a girl from Finland, was on a 6 weeks solo trip in Asia, and sent the card on travel mode. 

Just ten kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur, the Batu Caves stand as one of Malaysia’s most iconic cultural and spiritual symbols. This fascinating natural site, nestled along the Gombak River, offers much more than a geological spectacle. It is a true living sanctuary of Hindu tradition, rich in history, spirituality and color

MY-726020, sent by Kristiina.

The Batu Caves have a captivating history that begins in the 19th century. Originally, these natural caves were exploited for their limestone and guano (bat droppings, used as fertilizer). In 1891, Indian merchant K. Thamboosamy Pillai had a vision of transforming these caves into a shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war and victory. Today, this site has become the largest Hindu shrine outside India. 

The entrance to the site is marked by the imposing statue of Hanuman, the monkey god, who watches over this sacred place from a height of 15 meters. Visitors then undertake an ascent of 272 steps, at the top of which sits a 43m golden representation of Lord Murugan, inaugurated in 2006. This icon, one of the tallest in the world, symbolizes the harmony between masculine and feminine energies and embodies divine wisdom.
The caves themselves are a true masterpiece of nature. In 2018, their walls were decorated in bright colors, sparking both admiration and controversy. Although some purists have criticized these additions for their impact on the historic authenticity of the site, many visitors appreciate this new visual splendor. 

The Batu Caves become a focal point of activity each year during the Thaipusam festival (...). This Hindu religious festival commemorates the gift of a spear by the goddess Parvati to her son Murugan to defeat the forces of evil. Thousands of worshipers take part in a procession from Kuala Lumpur, carrying “kavadi”, decorated wooden or metal structures, often attached to the body by hooks or needles. These acts of extreme devotion demonstrate the faith and spirituality of the participants. Visitors are always welcome, provided they respect local customs. - in: https://terra-cultura.com

Mulu National Park - Malaysia

It has been more than 2 years since I posted cards from Malaysia. I got 2 cards from there in the last weeks but these two are actually quite old, got them more than 10 years ago. One is an official and the other was sent by Ilyani in 2009 and it was my 1st card of the national park, a UNESCO site since 2000.

 

Photo credits: Sarah Waugh, Jan Castley, J Satem, B Wan Ullok © Perkata

MY-169142, sent by Nurul. 

From top left: forest lined rivers, the Pinnacles, Pagoda flowers, Deer Cave and layered tropical forest.

Gunung Mulu National Park is one of Nature’s most spectacular achievements and the ‘Jewels in the Crown’ of Sarawak’s expanding network of national park. It is also the largest national park, covering 544 sq km of primary rainforest; which is crass-crossed by fast flowing rivers and clear jungle streams. Mulu is dominated by three mountains – Gunung Mulu (2,376 m), Gunung Api (1,750 m) and Gunung Benarat (1,858 m). Yet many of Mulu’s greatest attractions lie deep below the surface. Hidden underneath the forested slopes of these mountains is one of the largest limestone cave system in the world. 

This system, a breath-taking natural wonder, contains a number of record breaking caves. With the world’s largest cave passage (Deer Cave), the world’s largest natural chamber (Sarawak Chamber), and the longest cave in Southeast Asia (Clearwater Cave), it is not surprising that Mulu is now world-famous. Over 200 Km of cave passages have been surveyed but this is thought to represent just 30-40% of the actual total.
The oldest of Mulu’s caves started to form about 5 million years ago when sideways earth movements resulted in the formation of both limestone and sandstone mountains, lying side by side. Millions of years of heavy rain and the action of rivers and running water carved out the vast subterranean system that exists today. The weathering process still continues; dripping water creates new rock features, limestone is slowly worn away, and underground rivers carve and sculpt the caves, transporting limestone debris to the cave mouth or redistributing it within the system.
Although Mulu is the synonymous with caves, the ‘Mulu experience’ is not limited to underground attractions; above ground there is plenty to and do. The is covered in rich primary rainforest and offers a whole range of nature-based activities. There are some excellent jungle treks and mountain hikes, including the challenging trek to view the Pinnacles – 45 meter high, razor sharp limestone spikes that sit majestically on the slopes of Gunung Api. - in: https://www.mulunationalpark.com

Badain Jaran Desert - China

 Getting a card from a  new UNESCO site is wonderful, getting two cards from new UNESCO sites is supreme joy. On the same day I got the Wortel Colony from Belgium, I also got this card of the Badain Jaran Desert in China. This desert is located in the Alashan Plateau in the hyper-arid and temperate desert region of northwestern China and was added to the WHS list in 2024.

 

(...) the Badain Jaran Desert is a meeting point for three sandy regions of China and is the country’s third largest desert and second largest drifting desert. The property stands out with its high density of mega-dunes, intersected with inter-dunal lakes. It displays spectacular ongoing geological and geomorphic features of desert landscapes and landforms which may well be unparalleled. Noteworthy features, among others, include the world’s tallest, stabilized sand mega-dune (relative relief of 460 m); the highest concentration of inter-dunal lakes; and the largest expanse of so-called singing sands (describing the resonance caused for example by wind moving dry and loose sand) and wind-eroded landforms. The varied landscape also results in a high level of habitat diversity, and hence of biodiversity. - in: https://whc.unesco.org

Wortel Colony - Belgium

The Colony of Wortel is part of a unique history of a large-scale social experiment in the Netherlands and Belgium. Together with the colonies in the Netherlands, Colony of Wortel, in Hoogstraten, northern Belgium, has been classified as a UNESCO WHS in 2021. 

I already had a card of one of the Dutch colonies, now I've also the Belgium colony, thanks to Gerda.

In 1822, a Dutch general purchased approx. 532 hectares of land in Wortel. He developed the land, established the free Colony of Wortel there and built small farms to accommodate a large number of poor families. The project was not a success and was shelved after Belgium became independent.
From then on, Wortel-Kolonie became a haven for vagabonds and the homeless. After the Act on Vagrancy was abolished in 1993, the central buildings were refurbished as a prison. The remaining buildings and land were given a new use. The estate, a unique compartmentalized landscape with forests, pastures and monumental lanes, has been protected as a cultural-historical landscape since 1999 (...). Today, it is generally a beautiful place for walks and cycling tours. - in: https://visithoogstraten.be

Lake Constance - Germany

 Lake Constance in southern Germany is one of the largest lakes in Central Europe. Crossing the borders of three countries, it boasts clear waters, charming lakeside towns and historic landmarks.

As a holiday area, the Lake Constance region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm and cultural experiences.
The major part of the Lake Constance shoreline is in Germany, but there are sections of the lake in Austria and Switzerland. It is around 63 kilometres long and 14 kilometres wide.

 

© Schöning GmbH & Co. KG

 

 DE-9119260, sent by Anne.

The lake is divided into two sections. Upper Lake Constance (Obersee) is the eastern end of the lake and is the area most people would think of as 'Lake Constance'. Lower Lake Constance (Untersee) is the part to the west of Konstanz before the river Rhine flows out of the lake.
Incidentally, Lake Constance is known as the Bodensee in German. If you are a little confused about the names Constance and Konstanz, these probably come from one of the later Roman Emperors who controlled this region. - in: https://www.germansights.com

 

DE-16659809, sent by Marion.

View of the lake seen from Mainau castle.

 

© Schöning GmbH & Co. KG

DE-15386997, sent by Kerstin.

There are plenty of small towns and villages along the German shoreline of the lake, such us Lindau; Friedrichshafen; Konstanz and Überlingen.

Biscarrosse - France

Every now and then I get cards from non-postcrosser friends. My friend Natália went to France two weeks ago to spend a few days with her cousin in Biscarrosse.

 

Biscarrosse is home to some of the most beautiful sites in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Bordered on one side by the ocean and on the other by two large lakes, this beautiful town enjoys an exceptional location offering easy access to beaches and activities.

 

Éditions d'Art

Dunes, pine forests, sandy beaches, crystal-clear lakes... Biscarrosse has it all. Biscarrosse is a lively town all year round, where you can discover the Landes way of life. There's plenty to do in the water, from cruising on Lac Cazaux-Sanguinet to lounging on Plage du Vivier and surfing the waves of the Atlantic Ocean...
The lakes in Biscarrosse are sublime. One of the must-sees is the Lac de Cazaux-Sanguinet. Surrounded by pine trees, this superb 5,600-hectare lake offers a change of scenery for nature walks.
The Lac de Biscarrosse-Parentis is also full of surprises, with its 3,400 hectares. It's the perfect place to take full advantage of all the water activities...
Opinions are unanimous: the beaches of Biscarrosse are among the most beautiful in the Landes. - in:https://www.slow-village.com

CA-1679259

 Medicine Hat is a very curious name for a city. Several legends tell how this city in Alberta got it's name. 

* The Famine Legend: A brave journeyed to the South Saskatchewan River to save his starving people. A river serpent demanded the sacrifice of his wife in exchange for a "holy bonnet" that would give him the power to hunt and survive.

* The Battle Legend: During a conflict between the Blackfoot and Cree tribes, a medicine man lost his headdress in the river, creating an omen that gave the region its name.

 

 

Photo: Len Grant

CA-1679259, sent by Curt.

Once again, Canadian mail services ruined the stamps. Why??!

With its tall spires, St. Patrick's Church has long been a Medicine Hat landmark. Erected between 1912 and 1914 and designed by American architect Manley N. Cutter, it is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival church architecture in western Canada.

Lassen Volcanic N. P. - USA

I didn’t know about this park until a month ago. The United States has 63 designated national parks, and this is one of the few I've never heard of. It is great to learn about new places. 

US-12167856, sent by Mary Beth.

Nestled in the peaceful forests and wilderness of Northern California is Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lassen Peak is the largest plug dome volcano in the world and the southernmost volcano in the Cascade Range.

 

by Aaron Powers

US-12403353, sent by Jessica.
Established in 1916, Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to meadows freckled with wildflowers, clear mountain lakes and numerous volcanoes. A closer look at the landscape, however, reveals the hissing fumaroles and boiling mud pots that still shape and change the land, evidence of Lassen's fiery volcanic past. - in: https://www.nationalparks.org