An Post stamp set fit for a King or Queen

8 May 2017

Every year An Post issues a special EUROPA stamp along with other European Post Offices (PostEurop). The EUROPA theme for 2017 is ‘Castles ‘and the new set features two of Ireland’s finest, Dublin Castle and King John’s Castle in Limerick.

The stamps were designed by photographer and designer Kelvin Gillmor. They, along with two very collectable First Day Covers, can be purchased at irishstamps.ie also from the philatelic counters at Dublin’s GPO or at main post offices.

EUROPA stamps carry the official EUROPA logo and are issued by the various postal authorities throughout Europe to promote mail and philately. Since the very first issue in 1956, their purpose has also been to help to build awareness of the, culture, history and mutual interests of Europe.

Originally built in the 13th century on a site previously settled by the Vikings, Dublin Castle is right in the very heart of our busy capital city. For over 800 years it has always been in use, either as a military fortress, prison, treasury, courts of law or for 700 years, as the seat of English Administration in Ireland.

The first building was designed to be a defensive fortification for the Norman city of Dublin.Today, Dublin Castle is a major Irish government centre and is often used for important State receptions.

On the other side of the country, but of a similar age, King John’s Castle is situated on 'King's Island' in the heart of medieval Limerick city.

Although the site dates back to 922 when the Vikings lived on the Island, King John ’s Castle itself was built on the orders of King John in 1200. It overlooks the majestic Shannon and is one of the best –preserved Norman castles in Europe – the walls, towers and fortifications are all still intact today.

Over the past 800 years, the castle has been repaired and extended many times and is now one of the busiest tourist attractions in Ireland.