Yakushi-ji (55 cents) is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara and the head temple of the Hosso sect of Japanese Buddhism. It was constructed by Emperor Tenmu in the late 7th century for the recovery of the emperor's sick wife. One of Japan's oldest temples, Yakushiji has a strictly symmetric layout, with the main and lecture halls standing on a central axis, flanked by two pagodas, shown on the stamp.
The main hall was rebuilt in the 1970s after being destroyed by fire, and houses a Yakushi trinity, a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art. The East Pagoda is the temple's only structure to have survived the many fires and dates from 730. It is an UNESCO site since 1998. For those who would like to visit it, here is a link.
The Old Town of Regensburg (75 cents) was registered as UNESCO world heritage in 2006. Located on the Danube River, Regensburg with Stadtamhof is an exceptional example of a central-European medieval trading center, which illustrates an interchange of cultural and architectural influences. A notable number of buildings of outstanding quality testify to its political, religious, and economic significance from the 9th century. The historic fabric reflects some two millenniums of structural continuity and includes ancient Roman, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings. Regensburg’s 11th to 13th century architecture still defines the character of the town marked by tall buildings, dark and narrow lanes, and strong fortifications. The buildings include medieval patrician houses and towers, a large number of churches and monastic ensembles as well as the 12th-century Stone Bridge.
The stamp illustrates St. Peter's Cathedral surrounded by medieval buildings. St Peter’s Cathedral is indisputably the city’s spiritual center. When you look up towards the spires of this imposing Gothic building, you will see kings on horseback, foolish virgins, and gargoyles with animal and human faces. Website here.
I will surely go to visit them, at least Regensburg, that is one hour away from my home, by car :)
Title: UNESCO World Heritage Site
Date of Issue: 3 February 2011
Country: Germany
Denominations: 0,55 and 0,75 euro
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