British Cathedral Stamps – New Release

After facing criticism in 2006 about the lack of a Christian theme on its Christmas stamps, the Royal Mail will be releasing a fantastic set of stamps tomorrow, May 13, 2008. These new stamps feature ten amazingly detailed photographs of the most famous cathedrals throughout The United Kingdom. Each stamp depicts interior pictures in black and white and perfectly shows how grand these fine structures are. Buyers will experience a first hand view of the high alter in each of these great cathedrals.

The Lichfield, Belfast, Gloucester, Westminster, St David's and St Magnus Cathedrals are featured in this stamp series.

Lichfield Cathedral is the only English cathedral with three spires which are called “the Ladies of the Vale”. This Gothic cathedral was begun in 1195. The Belfast Cathedral, located in Northern Ireland, was built around a parish church. There is only one window left of the original structure. There is a 100 meter stainless steel spire that was added in 2007. The Gloucester Cathedral was built in the 11th century. There is a 14th century stained glass window with what is believed to be the earliest image of golf ever depicted. St. David’s Cathedral is located at the most westerly point in the British Isles. The Westminster Cathedral (not to be confused with Westminster Abbey) began being built in 1895 and opened its doors in 1903, but work on the interior mosaics still continues to this day. St. Magnus Cathedral is located in the Orkney Islands and begun in 1137.

There is a four stamp mini-sheet set that will also be issued to mark the 300th anniversary of the completion of the beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Viewing these stamps will take you back in history, hundreds of years ago. Simply spectacular!