mg-philately

Serbia bridges

2011-07-17T12:29:00.002+02:00

Bridge across the Danube river, near Beška, (1975)
Academician Branko Žeželj was its author and main planner. It is a road bridge 2250 meters long, made of reinforced concrete. The main continuous construction of the bridge is over three fields, with a central navigation whole of 210 meters in span, which was at the time of its construction the largest span of beam systems in Europe. The main construction of the bridge is composed of cantilevers. A new system of setting in concrete of the main bearer was applied for the first time on this bridge. The plans of the bridge were done in the Center for reinforced concrete - „IMS“, Belgrade.

New railway bridge across the Sava river in Belgrade, (1979)
Academicians Nikola Hajdin and Ljubomir Jeftović were its authors and main planners. It is a steel bridge with oblique cables of 1928 meters lenght in total. The central part of its construction is a steel formation above the river with a navigable span of 253,70 meters. The pillars are 50 meters high and are disposed in the axis of the main bearers, while the construction of the main bearers is supported with cables disposed on both sides on 51,85+51,0 m distance. This bridge was erected by this construction system as the first railway bridge in the world. The plans of the bridge were done in „Mostoprojekt“, Belgrade.

Road bridge „Most Slobode“ across the Danube river in Novi Sad, (1981)
Academician Nikola Hajdin was its author and main planner. It is a steel bridge with oblique cables of 1312 meters length in total. The main navigable span of the bridge is 351 meters, which was, at the time of its erecting, a world record related to this system of construction. The pillars are 57,80 meters high and they are disposed symmetrically in relation to the span of the bridge, in the center of the cross section. The total width of the bridge is 27,68 meters with a six - lane road, three in each direction. The plans of the bridge were done in the Institute „Kirilo Savić“, Belgrade, cooperator „Prednapregnuti beton“, Belgrade. The bridge was destroyed in 1999, during NATO bombing. It was reconstructed and put again into operation in 2005. The main contractor for all three above mentioned bridges was „Mostogradnja“, Belgrade.

Stamp Issue: 2011-06-20

The New Bucharest – BASARAB OVERPASS

2011-07-16T12:01:00.003+02:00

Basarab Overpass is to be inaugurated in the summer of 2011, on which occasion Romfilatelia introduces into circulation a postage stamps issue dedicated to this event.

Their history begins in 1863 when Effingham Grant, secretary of the British consul in Bucharest, married to Ana Golescu’s daughter, builds the first foundry in Bucharest near the “Ground Barrier” or “Belvedere Alleyway”,as it was called. In that period, Grant also brings and plants orchids in the garden of his villa (the only ones in Bucharest at that time) and, for this reason, the name Basarab Road was changed into Orhideelor Road (Orchids Road).
In 1864, the “Belvedere Tobacco Manufacture” was established and in 1879 it will be called the “Administration of State Monopolies” and hence, the name of an entire neighbourhood – “Regie”. Grant parcels out the lands in the area and gives them to the railway company employees, subsequently appearing here “Grant” and “Giulesti” Neighbourhoods. In 1912 the Grant Bridge was built and, in 1982, it was replaced with a new structure.

The overpass 1450 m long is itself a work of art which also holds two of the European records i.e.: the cable-stayed bridge of the overpass is the widest of a kind in Europe, having 44 m and it is the only cable-stayed bridge on the continent where a tramway stop is disposed (access to the ground level, where connections to public transportation means, the subway and railway transportation are ensured).
The cable-stayed bridge is 365 m long and is supported by two pillars, each being 80 m high and provided with 30 stays placed on each side of the pillars.
The arched bridge over Dambovita River is 124 m long and its deck is supported through rubber bearings by abutments, under which there are 40 m deep columns. The arch opening is 118 m.
Between the two bridge-structures, unique in Romania, the road traffic and the tramway circulation take place on a post-stressed reinforced steel concrete viaduct of 1500 m long, including also the access ways; the access ways are also stressed by an innovative method, and, just as the bridges, benefits of an advanced earthquake protection system used for the first time in Romania.
Basarab Overpass connects Nicolae Titulescu Boulevard and Grozavesti Road and will improve the road traffic in this area, therefore completing the main North-West traffic ring of the town.
By its construction, Basarab Overpass becomes the largest intermodal point in Romania, joining tramway lines on the bridge and under the bridge, bus and trolleybus lines, subway lines, two railway stations and bus terminals for domestic and international transportation.

Stamp Issue: 2011-06-21

Bridge of Taiwan (IV)

2010-10-20T10:10:00.002+02:00

To publicize the beauty of Taiwan’s bridges, Chunghwa Post has previously issued three sets of stamps in its “Bridges of Taiwan” series, featuring the bridges of northern, central, and southern Taiwan respectively. Now Chunghwa Post is following up with a fourth set of four stamps on bridges of eastern Taiwan.

Their designs follow:
Lizejian Bridge, Yilan (NT$5): Spanning the Dongshan River, Lizejian Bridge was originally a reinforced concrete bridge named Jiejing (which means “Shortcut”) Bridge. To accommodate water sport competitions at the Dongshan River Water Park, the bridge was rebuilt as a single-arch bridge without any piers and renamed Lizejian Bridge. Opened to traffic in June of 1992, the bridge has a total length of 148 meters, a width of 22 meters, and a top-of-the-arch height of 26 meters. Like a rainbow arching over green water, the bridge has become a Dongshan River landmark.

Taroko Bridge, Hualien (NT$5): The Taroko Bridge has five light-blue steel-arch spans over the Liwu River. The main spans are located in Xiulin Township, Hualien County. Opened to traffic in February of 2002, the bridge is 1,248 meters in length (including 512 meters of steel spans and 736 meters of pre-stressed concrete viaducts) and 20.8 to 29.6 meters in width. The height of its tallest arch is 25 meters. There are four spaces for lifescape sculptures where the main spans meet the viaduct sections of the bridge. Imbued with local character, the beautiful bridge has become one of Hualien’s most recognizable landmarks.

Hongye Bridge, Taitung (NT$12): Spanning the Luye River, Hongye Bridge is located in Hongye Village at 400 meters above sea level. It provides the principal access from the village to Luye Township and Taoyuan Village. Opened to traffic in March of 2000, the bridge has a total length of 133 meters, a width of 10 meters, and a height of 10 meters. The dark-red steel-arch bridge is beautifully set off against the surrounding mountain greenery and murmuring river.

Pudu Bridge, Hualien (NT$15): Spanning the Liwu River, Pudu Bridge, located in the Tianxiang recreation area of the Taroko National Park, is the only footbridge from the Central Cross-Island Highway to the Xiangde Temple. Originally a suspension bridge, it was later rebuilt as a cable-stayed steel one. Completed in October of 2003, the bridge has a total length of 88 meters, a width of 3 meters, and a height of 15 meters. Surrounded by strikingly beautiful green mountains and spanning a spectacular deep gorge, the beauty of Pudu Bridge is heaven sent.

Stamp Issue: 2010-10-20

Technical Monuments - Historic bridge in Písek

2010-10-20T09:52:00.000+02:00

The Stone Bridge in Písek (also known as the Stag Bridge) is the oldest still standing stone bridge in Bohemia. The bridge, spanning the Otava river, was the second stone bridge in Bohemia (after the already not existing Judith bridge in Prague). The exact date of its building is unknown, but the style is gothic. It was first mentioned in writing in 1348 when Charles IV ordered the town councillors to use fines collected in the town for maintenance of the bridge. A couple of gates with towers protected the bridge as well as the present historic town centre on either side. The left-hand tower was destroyed by the flood of 1768, the other one succumbed to wear and tear in 1825. The bridge is adorned by copies of the original, mostly 18th century baroque sculptures and the Cavalry. The 6.5m wide structure, slightly bulging up the river, consists of six arches spanning 111 metres, built on pillars with an upward save edge. The normal height above the water level is 5.5m. As one of the few medieval bridges, still standing and used in Central Europe, the stone bridge is a unique rarity.

Stamp Issue: 2010-10-20

Technical Monuments - Cable-stayed bridge in Ústí nad Labem

2010-10-20T09:49:00.000+02:00

Cable-stayed bridge - Mariánský Bridge in Ústí nad Labem, designed by the renowned architecture studio Roman Koucký, is one of the most distinctive and disputed projects built in the post-November 1989 Czech Republic. Following years of lengthy discussions about location of the bridge, the city councillors decided to place it under the Mariánská Rock, a site best suited for the bridge's main role, i.e. combining the city's three quarters - the city centre, Krásné Březno on the left bank and Střekov on the right bank of the Labe river. The 70m high bridge was built in 1993 to 1998 and became the city's new dominant. The height is not the only feature attracting the attention of people: the impossible-to-overlook system of steel cables suspending the 170m long bridge is similarly provoking. The architect designed the number of cables, the height and shape of the pylon not only with respect to static but also to his artistic visions. For instance, the height of the pylon was to counterbalance the Mariánská Rock on the other side of the river. It also matches the height of the tower of the gothic church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary nearby. According to the Structural Engineering International (SEI), quarterly Journal of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE), it is one of the ten most beautiful 1990s world buildings. It has also become the most expensive local project in the area of transport infrastructure since 1948, financed by a city. The city had to postpone the project of reconstruction of the Mírové Square and other projects. Last year the bridge changed its owners: it has become the property of the Road and Motorway Directorate of the Czech Republic since June 26th, 2008.

Stamp Issue: 2010-10-20

Anniversary of Tudela and the monastery of Sant Cugat

2010-09-27T18:41:00.001+02:00

With the issue of two stamps commemorating the 1200 anniversary of the founding of Tudela (Navarra) and the Millennium of the monastery of Sant Cugat (Barcelona).

Although there is evidence of the existence of a Roman settlement in Tudela, confirmed by the discovery of the mosaic of The Ramalete, the real founders of the capital of the Bank Merindad the Arabs, namely Ibn al-Muwallad Amrus, a representative of the Emir of Cordoba. The city of Tudela, since its conquest by Alfonso the Battler, highlighted as a model of religious coexistence equilibrium and integrating cultures. It remained to be expelled Jews and Moors in 1498 to 1610.

Stamp Issue: 2002-04-15

200 Anniversary of the Engineering School of Civil Engineering and Port

2010-09-27T18:34:00.001+02:00

It commemorates the second anniversary of the founding of the Engineering School of Civil Engineering and Port to issue a souvenir sheet and an independent label. The momentum of public works took on Spain in the early nineteenth century necessitated the creation of the School of Civil Engineering, opened in 1802. The promoter of the idea was Agustin de Betancourt, who is considered father of civil engineering in our country. Born in Puerto de la Cruz (Tenerife) in 1758. Of good education and with a great capacity for science and mechanical arts, he studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid, where he acquired a solid knowledge of mathematics, physics and drawing. For his great skill, was entrusted with studying the operation of the mercury mines of Almaden and won a scholarship to study mining engineering in Paris. Their work covers many different areas of science, such as "fire bomb" or steam engine double acting, hydraulic, electrical and optical telegraphy. He performed in major public works of the era and its ideas, outlined in a document of 1803 the Minister of State under the title News about the state of roads and waterways of Spain, became the program of actions for the coming years. In 1807 he left Spain and after passing through Paris was established in St. Petersburg (Russia), where he died in 1824.

Studies of Civil Engineers began in 1802 in the palace of the Buen Retiro (Madrid). In the first group left five students. After several interruptions, in 1834 the school finally opened under the direction of José Agustín de Larramendi. He stepped down Juan Suberco, who expanded and improved the curriculum and raising the scientific level of the station at the height of the most prestigious of the time. In the souvenir sheet, consisting of three stamps, reproduce Tui International Bridge, which links to Valença do Minho (Portugal), Strait Dam Bridge (Lorca) and the Port of Musel (Gijón). In the vignette is a picture of Agustín de Betancourt.

Stamp Issue: 2003-03-21

ARCHITECTURE

2010-09-27T14:50:00.000+02:00

The Bizkaia bridge is a striking civil work inaugurated in 1893. Its author was engineer Alberto de Palacio, disciple of Eiffel. It was the first bridge in the world with a transporter suspended above the river. It is an exponent of the iron Architecture and is still in use.

Stamp Issue: 2007-04-26

EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008

2010-09-27T14:46:00.000+02:00

The International Exhibition Zaragoza 2008 whose main theme is water and sustainable development will take place in Zaragoza from the 14th June to the 14th September. Correos has already issued a stamp depicting the logo and mascot of the Expo Zaragoza 2008, and on this occasion the stamp in this issue depicts the Bridge-Pavillion and Water Tower (Pabellón Puente and Torre del Agua), two architectural compounds which will be left for posterity as landmarks of this International Exhibition.

The Pabellon Puente (Bridge-Pavillion) is the work of Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid and the engineering company Arup. It is a slim building slightly curved resting on the banks of the river Ebro and a central island in its waters. It has an organic shape that criss-crosses and resembles a gladiola or diamond opening and closing like a natural element. The bridge goes from side to side, on mounds descending gently toward the banks. It is one of the most significant buildings of the exhibition and will allow visitors to access three different exhibition areas providing a smooth transition between the city across ramps planted with gardens and the Conference Centre (Palacio de Congresos).

Another of the most relevant buildings of the exhibition is the Water Tower (Torre del Agua) work of architect Enrique de Teresa, which will house the exposition “Water for Life”. It is a glass building 76 m. high that looked at from above resembles a drop of water The building has two differentiated areas : base and tower. The base is made up of three floors, two of which are underground and the ground floor above. The base includes the column of the tower, which rises to a height of 70 metres above ground level. The façade comprises a glazed curtain wall and at the entrance there’s a water fountain and a sculpture called “Splash“.

Stamp Issue: 2008-02-22

EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008

2010-09-27T14:43:00.000+02:00

The souvenir sheet is made up of three stamps and depicts an aerial view of the scale model of the Expo compound. One of the stamps depicts de Pabellón-Puente (Bridge-Pavilion) with a slender, organic, pleated shape which is one of the main entrances to the Exhibition. On the left hand side stands one of the six Themed Plazas on Aquatic inspirations. This space is located between the Bridge Pavilion and the Third Millennium Bridge. It is the only Themed Plaza where a large-scale show will take place instead of an exhibition. It is a shell shaped building with a bioclimatic design specially made to host the show “El Hombre Vertiente“. The other five Themed Plazas are built along the banks of the Ebro River and are called: Extreme water, recreating a breaking wave, aiming at making visitors conscientious of the perils of water; the Thirst Plaza gives a new perspective to thirst by portraying it as progress and the driving force behind the development of extraordinary techniques, culture and knowledge. The Oikos, water and energy plaza is an exposition facility in the open air (mostly) designed to show the visitor that it is possible to transform and store energy using the technology we have available in a manner that shows respect for the environment, is cheap, available to everyone, and which maintains our level of well-being. The Cities of Water Plaza is an exposition installation, with no walls, and its contents are visible from outside. Its main process refers to water as an “urban resource”, underlining the great value of this natural element in the process of improving quality of life in cities. The importance of a change of attitude among citizens to revalue the relationship of water in the city is highlighted. The last of the plazas, Shared water is structured in five different parts and encourages new thinking on shared water management. On the background of the souvenir sheet are depicted pavilions and infrastructures of the Expo.

Stamp Issue: 2008-07-04

ARQUITECTURA 2009

2010-09-27T14:15:00.000+02:00

The Puente de los Tilos, is a bridge built by engineers Santiago Pérez-Fadón Martinez and José Emilio Herrero Beneítez and their team near San Andrés y Sauces in the island of La Palma (Canary Islands). It was inaugurated on the 18th December 2004 and it consists of a 255m span arch. The arch and spandrel piers are made of high resistance concrete. The length of the bridge is 357 m and stands more than 150m high over the del Agua gully. With this bridge, the authors broke the span record in the building of concrete arches in Spain.

The Canal de Castilla is one of the most important civil engineering constructions in Spain. It was built as a means of communication for the region of Tierra de Campos so that agricultural produce could be transported along the canal to the northern sea ports. It was finished by 1849 and has an inverted Y shape with a total length of 270 km running through the provinces of Palencia, Burgos and Valladolid. With the arrival of the train, the canal lost its purpose as a means of communication and became an irrigation channel in 1909. Since 1972 the Hydrographic Confederation of the Duero River is in charge of its management and maintenance.

Stamp Issue: 2009-09-09

Girder bridge

2010-09-24T21:30:00.012+02:00

The next issue of the series “Architectural constructions. Bridges” is devoted to the girder bridges. Bridges with frameworks, the main load-carrying structures of which are beams or girders, are the most widespread in a modern bridge building. They are used in complex road interchanges. Distinctive feature of the girder system is that only vertical loads are transferred from the bridge superstructures to the piers and horizontal one are absent. Load transfer is carried out by a flexural element of a construction. Bridge structure depends on the size of overlapping of superstructures, the load on the bridge and the intensity of movement.

Depicted on the stamps:

Jubilee Bridge over the River Volga in Yaroslavl
Bridge across the Moscow Canal in the village Khlebnikovo Moscow region
Viaduct over the valley of the river Matsesta in Sochi
Bridge across the Kola Bay in Murmansk.

Stamp Issue: 2010-09-15

Arched bridges

2010-09-24T20:30:00.001+02:00

Arched bridge is a bridge with spans bearing arches as the main load-carrying structures.

The main peculiarities of arched bridges are that their thrust is not only vertical, but also horizontal and arches predominantly work for pressure. Arched bridges are usually constructed for ride at their upper side; their construction is light and they are architecturally bright.

Stamps represent vivid examples of such bridges in Russia:

Sartakov bridge across Oka river in Nizhny Novgorod;
Bridge across Irtysh river in Khanty-Mansiysk;
Viaduct across the valley of Matsesta river in Sochi;
Bridge across Don river in Rostov-na-Donu.

Stamp Issue: 2009-08-12

Cable-stayed bridge

2010-09-24T19:30:00.001+02:00

Cable-stayed bridge - the type of suspension bridge, which consists of one or more of the pylons, connected with the road through a straight wire ropes - rigging. The advantage of these bridges - the relative immobility of the roadway, which makes them suitable as a rail. This is one of the most economical designs of bridges. It is widely distributed in the world.

On the stamps are clear examples of bridges of this type in Russia:

Big Obukhovsky bridge in St. Petersburg,
Picturesque bridges in Moscow,
The bridge across. Ob (Surgut),
Bridge across. Volga (Kimry).

Stamp Issue: 2008-11-28

750 years of Tczew

2010-09-22T00:03:00.002+02:00

Polish Post has issued on the occasion of the 750th value Tczew anniversary of granting civic rights. The first mention of this village date back to the 1198th. Burned down in 1577 the fault of the troops Stefan Batory Foundation, the reconstruction of the effects of the war hit him with Sweden.

In the nineteenth century saw the rapid development of infrastructure. In the interwar period was built the first school in Poland sea. At the moment Tczew has 60,232 people. The biggest attractions include the stamp should be visible on the nineteenth-century bridge over the Vistula River (837 m), the Gothic Church of the Holy Cross in the thirteenth century with a baroque interior, and the neo-Gothic town hall of the early twentieth century (see in the FDC).
Stamp Issue: 2010-05-27
number 4336

Aleksander Gierymski - painter

2010-09-21T16:38:00.006+02:00

Alexander Gierymski (born January 30, 1850 in Warsaw, died in the period between 6-8 March 1901 in Rome) - Polish painter, representative of realism in painting, Polish precursor of Impressionism.

Gierymski images created in Warsaw period, as "Orange Woman", "A gate in the Old Town", "Marina in Solec", "Trumpets", "Sandblaster" (1887), and other topics are taken from the Vistula and the poor living Town. Great work with the Warsaw period has not found sufficient understanding in contemporary Polish society. He misunderstood and unappreciated in his homeland, deprived of the means of subsistence, he left Warsaw in 1888 and went abroad.

Stamp Issue: 1959-06-29
number 962

Poniatowski Bridge in Warsaw

2010-09-21T12:26:00.009+02:00

Originally built between 1904 and 1914, it was damaged in each of the World Wars and rebuilt afterwards.
The 506 m long steel bridge, consisting of eight spans, was designed by Stefan Szyller. Its construction, started in 1904, was supervised by engineers Mieczysław Marszewski and Wacław Paszkowski.

Stamp Issue: 1966-09-15
number 1560

Between 1963 and 1966 the bridge was widened, a tram track was separated from the carriageway and the bridge was connected to the "Wisłostrada" expressway on the left bank of the Vistula by means of a long looping sloped roadway section which reminded some contemporary commentators of a snail's shell.

Stamp Issue: 1970-05-08
Cp 438

150 Anniversary of the rail-road bridge in Tczew

2010-08-21T12:46:00.007+02:00

Preparations for building the first iron bridge had been going during 1844-1845. The foundation stone was laid July 27, 1851 year by Frederick William IV.

The first train ran on the 12 October 1857 year. Most numbering 837 m in length, resting on seven pillars, was the longest in Europe and one of the largest in the world. Portals of the bridge was decorated with reliefs depicting among other Winrich von Kniprode, receiving the homage of the Duke of Lithuania Kiejstutis.

In the years 1888-1891 at a distance of 30 meters a second bridge was built only by rail. At that time, the older of the bridge turned into a road. Originally, both bridges were shorter than today, because the embankment was located closer to the riverbed. In 1912 he moved toward the shaft Lisewa, an extension of the bridges and outbuildings were built with a common gate. Both bridges are all the possible technical solutions of construction for the construction of bridges in the art from the nineteenth century.

Stamp Issue: 2007-10-12
Cp 1442

Guangji Bridge

2010-07-05T16:08:00.002+02:00

Guangji Bridge, also known as Xiangzi Bridge, first built in 1171, spans over a river in the east of Chaozhou City, Guangdong Province. An outstanding model in combining beam bridge, floating bridge and arch bridge, the structure features 24 piers at the eastern and western section, which support pavilions varying from one another. The central part of the bridge is formed by 18 shuttle-shaped boats connected appearance, characterized by an integration of girders and boats as well as an array of elegant pavilions in traditional styles. Representing the struggling spirit and persevering fortitude of the local people of many generations, Guangji Bridge is considered an important historical milestone of the Chaozhou culture as well as an artistic embodiment of the Chinese civilization.

Stamp Issue: 2009-11-16

1000 years Kłodzko

2010-06-21T13:08:00.002+02:00

Gothic bridge the stream called "Młynówka", duct departing from Nysa Klodzka one of the oldest buildings of its kind in the region. It is one of the nine bridges connecting the oldest part of the old town center Kłodzko, site of the former borough, located on Sand Island.

The bridge is a four-span arch structure were built of hewn sandstone, has a length of 52.20 and approximately 4 meters wide, is limited by massive stone balustrades, richly decorated with sculptures of saints and crucifixes. It has two abutments and three pillars. The two extremes are narrower shape of the pointed arch arcade. The most interesting is the central pillar. The bridge above the base has six ribs, on which rests a flat platform in the shape of the incomplete star, who was specially prepared for the construction of the chapel, which was not finally.

Stamp Issue: 1981-05-21
Cp 783

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Portugal

2010-05-28T15:10:00.000+02:00

In 1984 CEPT (Conference Europeenne des Administrations des Postes et des Telecomunications) celebretes its 25th annversary. The CEPT was formed in 1959 in Montreux in Switzerland and it is an organization at administrative level.

The CEPT member countries issue EUROPA stamps every year with a common theme. For the 25th anniversary they also have the same motif: a bridge symbolizing communications, exchange and connection.

Stamp Issue: 1984-05-05

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Germany

2010-04-27T20:39:00.000+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Greece

2010-04-27T20:37:00.000+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Norway

2010-03-30T17:03:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - San Marino

2010-03-30T17:01:00.001+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Turkey

2010-03-30T16:53:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Island

2010-03-30T16:51:00.001+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Ireland

2010-03-30T16:42:00.001+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Italia

2010-03-28T15:16:00.004+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Sweden

2010-03-28T15:14:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Spain

2010-03-28T15:04:00.004+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Nederland

2010-03-28T15:01:00.003+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Monaco

2010-03-28T15:00:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Malta

2010-03-28T14:58:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Yugoslavia

2010-03-28T14:53:00.002+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Isle of Man

2010-03-28T14:51:00.001+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Luxembourg

2010-03-28T13:10:00.003+02:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Liechtenstein

2010-03-27T21:00:00.002+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - France

2010-03-27T20:34:00.002+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Foroyar

2010-03-27T20:31:00.003+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Finland

2010-03-27T20:28:00.002+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Denmark

2010-03-27T20:26:00.004+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Cyprus

2010-03-27T20:24:00.003+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Great Britain

2010-03-27T20:21:00.003+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Swiss

2010-03-27T17:19:00.004+01:00

Bridge of Taiwan (III)

2010-03-10T11:32:00.000+01:00

Taiwan post will issue a set of four postage stamps to publicize the beauty of Taiwan’s bridges. These set is third in the series of Bridges of Taiwan.

1. Jinde Bridge, Donggang (NT$5.00): This bridge spans the Donggang River in Donggang Township, Pingtung County. Opened to traffic in October of 2002, it has a total length of 440 meters and a width of 21.3 meters, with a 155-meter-long main span and a 30-meter-high arch. A basket-handle steel-arch bridge, it is a stately looking one.

2. Qigu River Bridge, Tainan (NT$5.00): This bridge is located in the scenic Qigu Lagoon area, close to the mouth of Zengwen river. Opened to traffic in November, 2007, it has a total length of 440 meters and a width of 40 meters. Its long-span arch design reduces the number of piers needed and reduces its impact on the environment and the ecology. The arc-shaped railings and the black-faced spoonbill totems blend into the ecological environment seamlessly.

3. Anyi Bridge, Tainan (NT$12.00): This bridge links two historical sites, Anping Fort (Fort Zeelandia) and Yizaijincheng (Eternal Golden Fort), hence its name Anyi. Spanning the Tainan Canal, it is 120.3 meters long and 25.5 meters wide. Opened to traffic in November, 2003, this bridge has an observation platform, which is a great place to enjoy sunsets and views of Anping Harbor.

4. Wangyue Bridge, Tainan (NT$12.00): Located in the Anping District of Tainan City, this bridge spans the Tainan Canal. Opened to traffic in August, 2001, it is 36 meters long and 21.2 meters wide. This bridge has a blue arch design and its railings incorporate moon patterns, both full and crescent. This bridge is especially beautiful at night when it is spotlighted and the arches of the bridge connect with their reflections on the water.

Stamp Issue: 2010-03-10

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Belgium

2010-02-27T17:04:00.000+01:00

25th Anniversary of CEPT - Austria

2010-02-27T16:24:00.000+01:00

Bicentenary of the birth of Isambard Kingdom Brunel

2010-01-17T21:33:00.002+01:00

Isambard Kingdom Brunel was a true genius of the Industrial Age, whose vision and daring produced some of the greatest engineering wonders of Victorian Britain. To mark the 200th anniversary of Brunel’s birth Royal Mail worked with eminent Brunel historians to select six examples from his incredible portfolio of work.

1st class - Royal Albert Bridge (1854-1857). The magnificent Royal Albert Bridge, designed and built to carry the Cornwall Railway at a height of 100 feet across the waters of the River Tamar at Saltash, must surely be recognised as one of his most outstanding works. Its unique design and handsome proportions, set in an idyllic location between the hills of Devon and Cornwall, give an aura of grace and majesty all of its own. As the “Gateway to Cornwall” it forms a fitting and lasting memorial to this great Victorian engineer. The stamp features a steel engraving of the Royal Albert Bridge, Saltash by Cornish artist R T Pentreath.

40p - Box Tunnel (1836-1841). This was the most difficult engineering problem that Isambard Brunel had to solve when building the London to Bristol line. Positioned between Bath and Swindon, Box Hill consists mainly of limestone. Five miles east of Bath and still in use today, it was built to bring the Great Western Railway down to Bristol from Swindon. The first train passed through on 30 June, 1841. The stamp image is taken from a coloured lithograph West Entrance to Box Tunnel on the Great Western Railway by John Cook Bourne, 1846.

42p Paddington Station (1849-1854). Brunel was ambitious in the design of the GWR’s London terminus, which he was charged with rebuilding in 1849 to accommodate the crowds expected to converge on London for the 1851 Great Exhibition. He was asked to construct a flexible covered space without columns to accommodate the railway’s future needs and to outshine the London terminus of the GWR’s arch-rival, the Great Northern Railway, at Euston. In an age when the new railways were regarded as the acme of modernity and sources of future prosperity for provincial cities and towns, public interest in Brunel’s daring schemes for the GWR was intense. The stamp image is a photograph taken by York and Son between 1870 and 1890.

47p PSS Great Eastern (1858). The Great Eastern was designed by Brunel. She was the largest ship ever built at the time of her launch, and had the capacity to carry 4,000 passengers around the world without refuelling. She would only be surpassed in length in 1899 (by the SS Oceanic), and in tonnage in 1901 (by the SS Celtic). She was built in partnership with an experienced ship designer, John Scott Russell. Unknown to Brunel, Russell was in financial difficulties, and the two men disagreed on many details. It was Brunel’s final great project, as he collapsed after being photographed on her deck, and died a few days later. She was built by Messrs Scott, Russell & Co. of Millwall, London, the keel being laid down on May 1, 1854. She was launched on January 31, 1858. She was 692 feet (211 m) long, 83 feet (25 m) wide, 60 feet (18 m) deep (draught was 20 ft (6.1 m) unloaded and 30 ft (9.1 m) fully laden) and weighed 32,000 tons (her tonnage was 18,915). Little is known about this image apart from the fact that it is dated around 1860.

60p - Clifton Suspension Bridge (1831-1864). The story of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, spanning the Avon Gorge, began in 1754 with the dream of a Bristol wine merchant, who left a legacy to build a bridge over the Gorge. A competition in 1829 was held to find a design, being judged by Thomas Telford, the leading civil engineer of the day. Telford rejected all the designs and submitted his own but the decision to declare him the winner was unpopular and a second competition was held in 1830. Isambard Kingdom Brunel, only 24 at the time, was eventually declared the winner and appointed project engineer – his first major commission. The image is taken from the lithograph Clifton Suspension Bridge by G Childs, after a sketch by S Jackson circa 1834.

68p - Maidenhead Bridge (1838). Maidenhead Railway Bridge carryied the main line of the Great Western Railway over the River Thames in Maidenhead, Berkshire. The railway is carried across the river on two brick arches, which at the time of building were the widest and flattest in the world. Each span is 128 feet (39 m), with a rise of only 24 feet (7 m). The Thames towpath passes under the right-hand arch (facing upstream), which is also known as the Sounding Arch, because of its spectacular echo. As built, Maidenhead Railway Bridge carried two lines of Brunel’s broad gauge track. Subsequently the bridge has been widened, and now carries the four lines of standard gauge track that make up the Great Western Main Line out of London Paddington Station. The image is taken from a colour lithograph of the Maidenhead Bridge by John Cook Bourne.

Stamp Issue: 2006-02-23

Stonecutters Bridge

2009-12-23T17:27:00.003+01:00

Stonecutters Bridge straddles the Rambler Channel at the entrance to the Kwai Chung Container Port. The approaches from Stonecutters Island on the east and Tsing Yi Island on the west are located near Container Terminals 8 and 9, respectively, and the connection forms a major part of the section of Route 8 between Tsing Yi and Cheung Sha Wan. Construction commenced in 2004 for commissioning in December 2009 after completion of the bridge deck in April 2009. Hongkong Post issues a set of special stamps to recognize this new icon of Hong Kong.

The dual 3-lane bridge is 1,596 metres long with a main span measuring 1,018 metres, the second longest cable-stayed span in the world. Supported by 224 cables running from two circular tapered towers of almost 300 metres in height, the bridge provides a navigation channel with 73.5 metres vertical clearance and 900 metres horizontal clearance for the safe passage of mega container vessels.

The bridge design is based on the winning entry of an international bridge design competition organised by the Highways Department in 2000. The two towers are constructed of steel and concrete with a stainless steel skin covering the upper portion. This unique composite design gives the bridge a modern look, echoing Hong Kong’s image as a cosmopolitan city in Asia.

The stamps showcase the splendour of the bridge from various angles — an upward view of the lofty girders and the tower ($1.40); a long shot illustrating the architectural ingenuity of this magnificent structure ($2.40); a view from sea level of the hustle and bustle of the container port under the bridge ($3); and a bird’s eye perspective of the tower demonstrating the beauty of the stay cables unfolding fanlike along its length ($5). Against the azure sky and the sapphire sea, birds glide over the bridge which stands majestically across the channel, busy with land and marine traffic, presenting a harmonious integration of technology into the environment.

Stamp Issue: 2009-12-17

The 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Korea and Brazil

2009-11-10T13:25:00.002+01:00

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and Brazil. Over the past half a century, the two countries have engaged in very active exchanges and cooperation in various areas such as the economic, social, and cultural fields. In celebration of this 50th anniversary, Korea Post and its Brazilian counterpart ECT (Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telegrafos) are issuing a set of joint stamps featuring bridges, hoping that through these bridges, the two countries located at the opposite sides of the globe can connect together and take a leap forward with each other.

Opened in October 2009, the Incheon Bridge is 18.5km long. Is the longest bridge in Korea and World’s No. 6 in length. The bridge is composed of various types of bridges such as cable-stayed bridge, arch bridge, viaduct, and extra-dosed bridge. The main tower is 238.5m high, and the cable-stayed section of the bridge extends 800 meter to become the 5th longest cable-stayed bridge in the world. Connecting Incheon International Airport with Songdo International City in Incheon, the bridge is expected to contribute to balanced regional development of Korea and to serve as a gateway that connects Korea with the world.

Octavio Frias de Oliveira Bridge is highly lauded as a beautiful bridge in architectural and aesthetic terms. The main towers that cross in an X shape support two curved roads. Opened in 2008 as a cable-stayed bridge, it is 1,600m long and 138m high. Connecting Journalist Roberto Marinho Avenue with the Rio Pinheiros Highway, the bridge significantly contributes to reducing traffic congestion in the region by accommodating 8,000 or so vehicles per hour, and is largely responsible for transforming the region into a tourist attraction.

Stamp Issue: 2009-10-30

Inaguration of the Seto Ohashi Bridge

2009-10-22T22:32:00.002+02:00

The Seto Ohashi Bridge connecting Honshu (mainland) and Shikoku (large island in the Seto Inland Sea) is inaugurated on April 10, 1988. The bridge is 9.4 kilometers long, made up of six branch bridge across 8 small islands. It is a two-storied bridge; the upper for automobiles and the lower for rail ways. The bridge seen from both ends is depicted on a se-tenant strip of four.

Stamp Issue: 1988-04-08

Opening of Oh-Naruto Bridge

2009-10-22T22:04:00.004+02:00

The Oh-Naruto Bridge is in the Honshu-Shikoku Conjunction Route, build over the faumos whirlpools of the Naruto Straits. The bridge is 876 meters main spain and 1,629 meters long. This is the suspension bridge largest in Asia and the 10th largest in the world. As a road-railway bridge, it is the largest in the world.

Stamp Issue: 1985-06-07

Technical Monuments – Bridge Kráľová at Senec

2009-10-07T23:45:00.004+02:00

The bridge over the Čierna Voda river, on the road from Krmeš to Kráľová , was built in 1904. This type of bridge has a skeleton of stone, filled out with burnt bricks, and an artistic stone railing designed like a balustrade. The bridge had its stone predecessor from the 18th century.

The Italian constructors and stone-masons used some original Baroque material for its construction - mainly the stone balustrade. From the artistic point of view, this balustrade fully matches the fencing between the parsonage and the adjacent house. The bridge features Baroque and Art Noveau elements, but its style is best described as Neo-Baroque. Below the mansion was a wooden bridge till 1900. This bridge is a technical monument with artistic elements, secondarily registered as city planning and a historic monument. The bridge is set on four bearing rectangular pillars, spanning the river in three ellipsoid arks, the bridge-body ends in approximately 100 cm high pillars. Both ends of the bridge are filled with material from the road to the bank. The bridge is historic, associated with the Pálffy-clan in this location. The Pálffy-clan gradually allowed an extensive exemplary agricultural-industrial complex to be built - the modified mansion in Kráľová and the bridge connecting the closer surroundings on the right riverbank with the park and land behind the river on the left bank. Following the death of the last owner, Ján Pálffy, and the end of World War I, this complex started to be broken up: the land and parks were divided, and the bridge which was originally inside the mansion area ended up free standing. The original park-bridge became a road-bridge connecting the two local parts. The dimensions of the bridge: length - 4009 cm, bridge body width - 602 cm, road width - 470 cm, height of highest point above middle-ark - 680 cm.

The First Day Cover shows the Baroque stone bridge over the rivulet Sikenica in Bátovcie from 1780. The FDC Cancellation shows the Gothic bridge in Dravce.

Stamp Issue: 2007-09-05

The Sturovo-Ostrihom Bridge

2009-10-06T00:32:00.000+02:00

The Sturovo-Ostrihom Bridge, originally the Bridge of Maria Valeria, was built in 1895 as the third of the series of bridges dedicated to the Habsburg Dynasty at the Hungarian bank of the Danube river.

After the laying up because of destruction, the bridge was being reconstructed from 1919 up to 1927, but later ruined again at Christmas in 1944 as retraining German troops blew the three middle parts of the bridge up, whereupon the two supporting pillars were seriously damaged.
This war torso persisted at the Danube river for 56 years until the Slovak Republic and Hungary signed the international agreement on common restoration with the crucial financial help of EU.

The Sturovo-Ostrihom Bridge will enable constant connections across the border and contribute to the socio-economic development of contiguous Danube regions. At the same time, this work of renovation becomes a stable symbol of connecting and unifying of the European nations.

Stamp Issue: 2001-10-11

Historical bridges - Wooden bridge in Kluknava

2009-10-05T00:00:00.000+02:00

The wooden bridges were started to be built in the 13th century. Wood however remained the main building material till the 19th century. Only few of the noteworthy roofed wooden bridges, which were situated in Slovakia, were preserved.

The only preserved Slovak wooden covered bridge is the bridge across Hornád river in Kluknava in the local part called Štefanská Huta. It originated in 1832. Its construction is 27 m long and 3.4 m wide. The bridge in Kluknava was built for the transport of the building material for the factory construction in Štefanská Huta. It was never more seriously damaged, neither repaired.

The shingled covering and side boarding were renewed in 1832 - just hundred years after the bridge construction. In 1981 an extensive reconstruction of the bridge begun by its total dismantling. The bridge of Kluknava is according to the experts called the pride of the Slovak wooden covered bridges.

Stamp Issue: 2000-09-14

Anghel I. Saligny – 155 Years since his Birth

2009-09-18T23:05:00.006+02:00

With the occasion of celebrating 155 years from the birth of a Romanian genius - Anghel I. Saligny, within the annual theme ROMANIAN POSTAGE STAMP DAY, Romfilatelia honors this event with the introduction into circulation of the postage stamps issue “Anghel I. Saligny – 155 Years since his Birth”.

The railroad line Adjud - Tg. Ocna with the first combined bridges in the country – highway and railway (1881-1882), the first grain silos in the world made of reinforced concrete in Braila and Galati (1888-1889), the bridge over Siret from Cosmesti (1888), the bridges complex in Fetesti-Cernavoda, the longest in Europe (1895), the arrangement of the harbor in Constanta (1889-1909), these are a few of the engineering works left by a famous Romanian: Anghel I. Saligny.

His father, Alfred Saligny, native from Alsacia has established before 1859 in Romania, Focsani, where he opened a boarding school – private education institution destinated to the young people whose parents with a high living standard wished their children to get consistent knowledges in the domains of literature and French language, in which he also had the position of teacher.

After the Union of the Romanian Principalities, the foreigners were asked to declare whether they wanted to become Romanian citizens, which Alfred Saligny done; so that his children as well: Anghel, Alfons and Sofia have acquired the Romanian citizenship.

One of the founders of the Romanian engineering, Anghel I. Saligny was born on 1854 at Serbanesti, in the county of Galati.

The primary school was attended at his father’s boarding school in Focsani. After finishing the secondary school in the same city, he attended the high school courses in Germany, Postdam together with his sister, Sofia.

In the period of 1870-1874 he studied the engineering within the Superior Technical School in Charlottenburg. He worked, under the supervision of professor G. Mahrtens, at the construction of the Cottbus-Frankfurt railway on Oder, and between the years 1877-1879, under the supervision of Gh. Duca, he worked at the construction of the Ploiesti-Predeal railway.
With the name of Anghel I. Saligny are related world premières in the field of construction engineering.

The most important work of the Romanian engineer, unanimously acknowledged, is the construction of the bridge complex at Fetesti-Cernavoda, which on its inauguration date was the longest bridge in Europe and the third in the world and also one of the metallic bridges with a wide opening in the world. In the accomplishment of this complex of bridges, Saligny has brought two great innovations: the new system of cantilever beams for the structure of the bridge and the use of soft steel instead of ball iron as construction material for the bridge decks.

The bridge that until 1976 will wear the name of King Charles I (renamed afterwards Eng. Anghel Saligny) has been built between the years 1890-1895. It has been inaugurated on September 26th 1895 by the Romanian monarch who wished to drive in the last silver rivet.

Being fully convinced of the durability of the bridge, Anghel I. Saligny stayed with the workers in a boat, under the bridge, while the first merchandise set of cars and a train with guests specially arrived from Bucharest passed upon it.

The complex of bridges, with a length of almost 4090 m, is formed of the bridge over the Danube (with an openings of 190 m and other four openings of 140 m, near a viaduct with 15 openings of 60 m, at 30 m over the Danube waters) and the bridge over the river arm Borcea (with three openings of 140 m, a viaduct with 11 openings of 50 m and a viaduct with 34 openings of 42 m).

18 centuries after the construction of the bridge of Apolodor in Damask, the banks of the Romanian Danube were again united by the bridge of Anghel I. Saligny.

Another two constructions of Anghel Saligny have been world-wide awarded, i.e. the reinforced steel silos in Braila and Galati. The silos, projected and constructed by Saligny in 1888 and 1889 had the capacity of 25000 tons of grains and the dimensions of 30 x 120 m at the base and 18 meters height. The walls of the hexagonal cells of the silos have been carried out in world premiere as well, of ground manufactured pieces, with form of plates. The prefabrication of the ground plates, the bracing and joint corners, the welding of the metallic bars and the mechanization on the assembling have represented another world - wide priorities.

A work which also bears the engineering signature of Saligny is the setting up of the Constanta harbor, which has been carried out between the years of 1889-1909. At the Constanta harbor, Saligny introduced for the first time in Romania the piles and the etched copper - plates made of reinforced concrete in the harbor constructions.

Today, in Romania when we speak about poetry, we say Eminescu, when we speak about sculpture we look towards Brâncusi, when we speak about music we hear the strings of Enescu´s violin, when we are in the plane which carries us over the clouds we think of Vuia and Coanda, and when we speak about bridges and cross over the Danube to the Romanian beaches, we remember Anghel Saligny.

Stamp Issue: 2009-07-30

40 Years of Diplomatic Relations Singapore-Philippines

2009-08-27T16:06:00.006+02:00

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and the Philippines, Singapore Post and Philippines Post will release a joint stamp issue featuring five significant bridges in Singapore and the Philippines. The theme, ‘Bridges’ is chosen to signify the strong, multi-faceted ties between both countries.

The 80-cents stamp depicts the Henderson Waves and Alexandra Arch, bouth found along the Southern Ridges, were opened in May 2008. Presently Singapore's highest pedestrian bridge, standing at 36m above the Henderson Road. The Henderson Waves connects Mount Faber Park to Telok Blagah Hill Park, while the smaller bridge Alexandra Arch, connects Kent Ridge Park to Telok Blagah Hill Park via the Flora Walk.

The Cavenagh Bridge built in 1868, featured on the $0.65 stamp is the oldest bridge on the Singapore River. Built to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of the Straits Settlement, it was converted to a pedestrian bridge.

The Bamban Bridge featured on the 1st local stamp, crossing the Sacobia-Bamban River system, along the MacArthur Highway between Mabalacat, Pampanga and Bamban, Tarlac, is one of the modern and sleek-looking bridges in the Philippines. The bridge’s arch has a span of 174 metres and contains 1,400 tons of steel. Completed around 1998, it is the longest bridge of its type in the world.

The Marcelo Fernan Bridge depicted on the $1.10 stamp is an extradosed cable-stayed bridge located in Metro Cebu. It spans across Mactan Channel connecting Cebu Island to Mactan Island. Opened in August 1999. The bridge has a total length of 1237 metres with a centre span of 185 metres. This bridge is one of the widest and longest bridge span in the Philppines, and is named after Senator Marcelo Fernan from Cebu City.

Stamp Issue: 2009-08-28

Indonesia Suramadu Bridge

2009-07-13T17:43:00.007+02:00

Suramadu Bridge is a 5,438 m long bridge connecting Java Island and Madura Island. Considered as a longest bridge in Indonesia so far, Suramadu Bridge becomes a new landmark of Indonesia, especially East Java Province. Officially started in 2003, the construction is undertaken simultaneously on all of its three parts, both Surabaya and Madura side as well as central part comprising approach bridge and main bridge. Suramadu Bridge is inaugurated by President of the Republic of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on 10 June 2009.

Stretched across Madura Strait, this bridge consists of three parts, namely causeway, approach bridge and main bridge. The bridge provides four 3.5 m width two-ways lines and two 2.75 m width emergency lines. Special line for motorcycle rider is available along the outer side of the bridge. Two causeways connect the bridge with the land across the shallow water at both sides. The 672 m long approach bridges link causeways with the main bridge. The main bridge is made up using cable stayed construction supported by twin towers erected 143 m high. The bridge allocates 35 m high free space above the sea level to accommodate shipping traffic across Madura Strait.

Suramadu Bridge is built to increase transportation traffic of people and logistics from and to Madura Island. The increasing traffic is believed will accelerate development in Madura Island which less developed than other parts of East Java Province. Hopefully, the bridge will pace the growing economics activity of this area. Whereas, the instant economics benefit comes from revenue of toll charged to every vehicles pass the bridge.

Stamp Issue: 2009-06-10

Old Rhine Bridge

2009-06-25T23:11:00.000+02:00

On the 4th of September 2008 German and Swiss posts have emitted a joint stamp issue sharing the same design and picturing an old bridge over the Rhine river.

With a length of 200 meters, this bridge is the longest covered wooden bridge in Europe. It connects the German town of Bad Säckingen with the Swiss canton of Aargau. Existence of a wooden bridge in this area can be tracked back to the 13th century. This first construction and many subsequent ones were destroyed because of disasters or wars.

Today's bridge construction emerged 200 years ago and is used since then as a frontier between Germany and Switzerland. Since 1979 it is reserved exclusively to cyclists and pedestrians.

Stamp Issue: 2008-09-04

100 Years Bridge Oberndorf - Laufen

2009-05-04T16:20:00.006+02:00

Oberndorf has witnessed a large number of devastating floods during the last centuries. The first record of a bridge being washed away dates back to 1316. The damage was often caused by flotsam which was caught between the wooden bridge pylons and forced the water to dam up. Ultimately the bridges were often just washed away. During the last decade of the 19th century four floods cased great damage, and a decision was made to relocate the town to a more elevated plateau.

The Bavarian Laufen and Austrian Oberndorf developed the plan to construct a stable bridge made of stone and iron incorporating a greater span. As the bridge was in close proximity to both the old town square of Laufen and the new centre of Oberndort, an aesthetic design was implemented.

The two-pylon construction had three apertures, the largest of which was on the Austrian side to allow for shipping needs. The construction was made of 648 tonnes of Martin River iron ore, with a chain-like curved upper cable and a straight lower cable. The facing of the pillars and decorative elements required an additional 67 tonnes of material to ensure a pleasing design. Eagles with spread wings were placed upon the bridge portals, adding to the elegant impression of the construction. The bridge was inaugurated on the 2nd of June 1903 in a collective festival of inhabitants from Laufen and Oberndorf.

Stamp Issue: 2003-06-03

50th Anniversary - Auckland Harbour Bridge

2009-05-01T12:00:00.003+02:00

Fifty years since its opening, Auckland Harbour Bridge is an icon of New Zealand’s landscape. Replacing a 40-kilometre drive or a cross harbour ferry ride, it’s been key to growth in the region – transforming North Shore’s seaside villages and rural communities into a thriving city, and opening Auckland City and points north and south to previously unimaginable opportunities for expansion and development.

Join us in celebrating the anniversary of this remarkable structure’s opening, with four gummed stamps, one self-adhesive stamp and a first day cover that are bound to be snapped up by Kiwis and international collectors alike.

50c – Opening Day 1959
On 30 May 1959, Governor-General Lord Cobham officially opened the box truss bridge after a week of celebrations that included a crossing by thousands of pedestrians before it was opened to vehicles. Retailers prepared for the event with ‘bridge specials’ and competitions, while parades, fashion shows and dances were held to welcome the new landmark.

$1.00 – Our Bridge 2009
By the late 1960s it was apparent that the Bridge would soon reach its capacity. To cope with the growth in traffic volumes, Japanese company IHI clipped two new lanes to each side of the bridge using the existing pier supports. The work was completed in 1969, with the only major maintenance required since being a girder strengthening project in 2006.

$1.50 – Our Icon 1961
From the day it opened until 1984, Auckland Harbour Bridge was a toll road, charging 25 cents per car with the aim of recovering the costs
of construction. After one year of operation, 4.9 million vehicles had crossed the bridge, a figure that increased to 10.6 million in 1966 and reached more than 60 million in 2008. To help manage the traffic flow, the world’s first ‘moveable lane barrier’ was installed in 1990 – it’s now moved four times a day to create an extra lane at peak times.

$2.00 – Our Link 2009
Today, the Auckland Harbour Bridge is an essential link between the North Shore and Auckland City – providing commuters, travellers
and tourists with an easy, direct link to motorways stretching north and south. It’s also a visitor destination, with bridge climbing and bungy jumping experiences now on offer to those with an adventurous spirit. Care to try ‘the fastest way of getting to see Waitemata Harbour’ yourself?

Stamp Issue: 2009-05-01

Philippine Colonial Bridges I

2009-04-29T13:34:00.008+02:00

The early history of bridge building in the country is attributed to both the Spanish missionaries and conquistadors, who along with their task of converting, pacifying and subjugating souls were also responsible for building communities.

Puente de Isabel II (Province of Cavite)
The bridge was built by Brother Matias Carbonell OSRA in 1857 and situated along Calle Liko and spans the Rio de Imus linking the town of Imus to Bacoor.

Puente Dampol (Province of Nueva Vizcaya)
The bridge was built by the Spanish conquistadors in 1739 and situated in the southernmost portion of the Cagayan Valley.

Puente de Barit (Province of locos Norte)
The bridge is situated along the Laoag-Bacarra Nacional Road. Nothing much is known about its heritage, but it is a beautiful piece of civic infrastructure that serves as a very important link to towns of north of Laoag.

Puente de Blanco (Binondo)
The bridge is also known as Puente de Binondo, built in 1796. The bridges traverses Calle San Fernando linking Plaza Calderon de la Barca now known as Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz to San Nicholas district. The Maestro de obras was Policarpio Faxardo with Phelipe de Mesa as sobrestante or foreman.

Puente de Malagonlong (Province of Quezon)
It is the most spectacular bridge from the Spanish Colonial era. The construction was started in 1841 and finished in 1850. It links Tayabas with the coastal town of Pagbilao, then an important link to the coast.

Puente del Fuerza Santiago (Intramuros)
The construction of the bridge started in 1591 and was completed in 1634 under the direction of Leonardo Iturrino. The bridge was built west of the gate leading to Fuerza Santiago. Today both the moat and the bridge have been fully restored to give visitors a partial glimpse of the history of Fuerza Santiago.

Puente de Mabacao (Maragondon)
The date of construction and the name of the builders remains unknown. It spans a rather wide gorge and is supported by three masonry piers resting on solid rocks.

Puente de Busay (Province of Albay)
The bridge is located along the Guinobatan-Camalig national road which straddles the border of the two towns overlooking either the majestic Mount Mayon on its eastern side or the spectaculars Busay Waterfalls.

Stamp Issue: 2007-05-16

Architecture of the Dong Nationality

2009-04-27T17:00:00.000+02:00

Dong Nationality, a minority nationality in southwest China, has a population of about 2.5 million who mainly inhabit Guizhou, Hunan and Guangxi provinces and autonomous region. The Dong people are not only good at singing and dancing, but also experts in knitting and building.

The drum towers are in the shape of a wood pagoda. Without a single nail or rivet, the towers could be three-to ten-storey high. The tower is spacious inside and has wood rails circling each floor. There is a calabash or crane on the top of the tower symbolizing auspiciousness and peace. The delicately wrought protruding eaves look as if to fly and leap. The square in front of, and the stage connected with the tower are the centre of celebration activities.

Wind and Rain Bridge, also called flower bridge, is another unique building of Dong people. As the weather in the region is changeable, Dong people build corridors on the bridges so passers-by could take shelter from the sun, wind and rain or take a rest. So the bridge is called wind and rain bridge. On the corridor and eaves of pavilions are carved with paintings featuring coloured and vivid figures, mountains and rivers, patterns and animal, displaying the Dong's national characteristics as well as their diligence and wisdom. Wind and rain bridges are the art treasures of Chinese wood architecture.

Stamp Issue: 1997-06-02

Architecture of Ancient China: Bridges

2009-04-26T16:00:00.000+02:00

Zhaozhou Bridge also known as Anchi Bridge is the world's oldest open-spandrel stone segmental arch bridge cross the Jiao River, about 50 m long with a central span of 37.37 m. It stands 7.3 m tall and has a width of 9 m. Credited to the design of a craftsman named Li Chun, the bridge was constructed in the years 595-605 during the Sui Dynasty (581–618). Located in the southern part of Hebei Province, it is the oldest standing bridge in China. In the next 1400 years, the bridge survived at least eight wars, ten major floods and numerous earthquakes, the nearest of which being the 7.2 degree Xingtai Earthquake in 1966. Yet, the support structure remains intact and the bridge is still in use. Only the ornamental railings have been replaced every few hundred years.

Precious Belt Bridge is a Chinese stone arch bridge located near the city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. The Precious Belt Bridge is located at the intersection of the Grand Canal and Dantai Lake, about 2.5 kilometer south east of Suzhou. The first construction of the bridge dates back to the year 816 AD, during the mid Tang Dynasty. The bridge's span is 317 m long and has a width of 4.1 m, with a total of 53 arches in its span. The three central arches are enlarged to allow for the passage of - by historical standards - larger river vessels without masts. The average span of each arch is 4.6 m.

Anlan Bridge is suspension bridge with Rope made from bamboo, crosses the Minjiang River bestriding the water of the Inner Canal and Outer Canal to connect Erwang Temple with the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.Anlan Bridge is 261 meters long. It is supported by wooden pegs and stone piers. The bridge crosses the river by using bamboo ropes. The bridge is secured by bamboo ropes on two sides, in length of which are about 500 meters each. When the bridge was restored, steel ropes were used instead of bamboo ropes. The wooden pegs which supported the cable were changed to ferroconcrete pegs, and the length of the bridge become 240 meters.

Chengyang Bridge also known as Yongji Bridge or Panlong Bridge, spans the Linxi River of Sanjiang County. Built in 1916, it is 64.4 meters long, 3.4 meters wide and 10.6 meters high. Constructed with wood and stones, the surface of the bridge is paved with wooden boards and both sides are inlayed with railings. On the bridge itself, there are five tower-like kiosks with 'horns' and eaves which resemble the flapping wings of birds. It is the best one among the wind and rain bridges in Dong stockade villages. At present, it is the largest wind and rain bridge also it is the crystal of Dong people's wisdom; it is one of the artistic precious things of Chinese wood architecture.

Stamp Issue: 1962-05-15

Interchanges in Beijing

2009-04-25T16:00:00.000+02:00

Interchanges are multi-layer flyovers that have been built over the past several decades. With interchanges. Vehicles and pedestrians from all directions can cross each other by their own way without waiting for traffic light.

Interchanges generally fall into two categories, the simple flyovers and complicated interchanges. The former can only ensure the cross of vehicle at both the upper and lower layers, while the latter can guarantee the cross of vehicles at various layers and thus need more slip roads and occupy more land.

Interchanges have been developing rapidly over the past several decades since they can prevent vehicles from reducing speed and starting again at crossings and bring about considerable social-economic gains. China started to vigorously develop interchanges in mid-1970s. The first interchange in Beijing is the Fuxingmen Interchange which was built in 1974. Today, there are several hundreds of interchanges along the second, third and fourth ring roads of the city. In terms of architectural structure, the interchanges, with two to four layers, include simply flyovers and those in the shape of cloverleaf and butterfly, with H-and Y-type and single-column bridge piers.

At present, the largest interchange in China is the Siyuan Interchange in Beijing. It is a four-layer large interchange composed of 26 bridges, with the span between the single-column bridge piers being the largest in interchanges of the country. The bridges of the Siyuan Interchange, which covers 400,000 square meters of land, have a total length of 2.8 kilometers and a total area of 40,000 square meters.

Stamp Issue: 1995-06-20

The Inauguration of Taiwan’s Second Southern Freeway

2009-03-21T13:21:00.001+01:00

The Second Southern Freeway, from Hsinhua, Tainan to Chiuju, Pingtung, is to be completed and opened in February 2000. This is the final link in southern Taiwan's freeway network, which will bring prosperity to this area and balance development in the region.

The Second Southern Freeway runs for a total of about 134 kilometers, through Tainan County, Tainan City, Kaohsiung County, Kaohsiung City and Pingtung County, and includes the main freeway, the Kaohsiung branch and the Tainan branch.

The Kaoping River cable-stayed bridge is situated at the border of Kaohsiung and Pingtung Country. The total length of the bridge is 2,617 meters. The western section of it has a nonsymmetrical cable-stayed bridge design. The pylon, its main structure, is a single tower with an A-frame design, with a height of 183.5 meters. It has a side span of 180 meters that uses a prestressed concrete box beam. Its main spain is an extremely long 330 meters, and uses a completely welded steel-frame box beam. The middle section of the bridge, for which a balanced-cantilever design has been employed, has long spans. The eastern section of the bridge, which employs an advancing-shoring design, has spans of medium length. This magnificent and powerful design of the bridge as a whole is a triumph both of structural mechanics and esthetics.

The NT$5.00 stamp features a close-up of the pylon of the bridge to show that it is an important landmark of the freeway.

The NT$12.00 stamp features a bird's-eye view of the interchange of the Tainan freeway.

The NT$25.00 miniature sheet features a bird's-eye view of the bridge.

Stamp Issue: 2000-02-02

The Inanguration of Taiwan’s Second Northern Freeway

2009-03-20T13:07:00.000+01:00

To reduce the increasingly heavy traffic load on the northern section of the Sun Yat-sen Freeway, the Executive Yuan approved construction of a Second Northern Freeway in 1984. Construction started in 1987 and the freeway was scheduled to be completed and opened in late August of 1997.

The Directorate General of Posts plans to print a pair of Commemorative Stamps on the Opening of the Second Northern Freeway of Taiwan, one showing the freeway crossing over the Bitan Bridge of the Shindian River and the other a view of the Interchange in Hsinchu.

The total length of the Second Northern Freeway is about 117 kilometers, and includes the following sections (1) the main freeway, which runs along the edge of the east side mountains of northern Taiwan and the South edge of metropolitan Taipei. It branches out from the Sun Yat-sen Freeway near Shijr, and connects to the Interchange of the Hsinchu system at the southern edge of the Hsinchu Science-Based Industrial Park, which connects to the Sun Yat-sen Freeway, (2) the inner circle, which branches out from the main freeway in the area near Yingge, goes through Taoyuan and connects to the airport interchange of the Sun Yat-sen Freeway, serving as the second express road providing access to the Chiang Kai-shek International Airport; and (3) the Taipei spur, which branches out from the main line in the area near Mucha and connects to existing and planned expressway systems of Taipei City.

Stamp Issue: 1997-08-26

Bridges from Algeria

2009-02-19T08:27:00.001+01:00

The city of Constantine situated in the north of Algeria is characterized by a particular geography. Based on a huge rock separated in its middle by the Rhummel River, it conceals numerous bridges that were built to connect both parts of the city. As well their particular aspect, these bridges are real art works.

The bridge of Sidi M'cid (10,00 Dinars): named also the suspension bridge, it was conceived the French engineer, Ferdinand Arnaudin. Inagurated on April 19th, 1912 in aim to connect the Kasbah to the new hospital and to the War Memorial, it was constructed in iron and cast, measuring 164 meters long and dominating the Rhummel River on 175 meters above the stream. Wide of 5 meters 70, it bears the load of 17 tons. Down from Sidi M'cid, the sight is wonderful and extended far off towards the gorges of the city and the Hamma valey.

The bridge of Sidi Rached (15,00 Dinars): The works of constructing this bridge were lauched in 1907 by Boisnier, a specialist of the big bridges. The bridge of Sidi Rached is a huge and impressive accumulation of rock wrapping the south of the city. Established on 27 arc of dressed stone among which a principal arc of 70 meters of opening and 105 meters high, it was during its building one of the biggest stony bridges in the world. Measuring 447 meters long and 12 meters wide, it allows to lie the city centre with the district of the station and gives access to the road going out southward. With its ornamental construction, the bridge of Sidi Rached symbolized majestically the city on postcards.

El Kantara Bridge (20.00 Dinars): The bridge named El Kantara constitutes the main access road to the city. During the year 1185 all the bridges built by the Roman were destroyed, however, only the bridge of El Katara was reconditioned. In 1304, the same bridge was demolished again to be restored in 1792. Further to the passage of an infantry detachment, El Kantara collapsed on March 18th, 1857. But it was reconstructed in 1864 to connect the old rock city, as Constantine was called, and the national street to the road of Mansourah. The bridge of El Kantara was a bow of cast iron measuring 128 meters in length and raised 125 meters upright and dominating the Rhummel valey.

The bridge of the Medersa (38.00 Dinars): this bridge built between 1917 and 1925 is reserved to the pedestrians. It measures 125 meters of lenght and 2 meters 40 of wide. It connects the district of the station with the city centre via the flight of the stairs or the elvator of the Medersa (school) situated in the middle road of the bridge of Sidi Rached and that of El Kantara. The bridge of the Medersa, ex Perregaux, named at present the bridge Mellah Slimane, reflects the technique of suspension bridges and it is a model of Sidi M'cid Bridge. During the year 2002, this bridge was subjected to a big operation of refubishment.

Stamp Issue: 2008-11-26

Casimir Gzowski - Capex 78

2009-02-05T19:58:00.007+01:00

Sir Casimir Gzowski was the first chairman of the Commission for the establishment of the Queen Victoria Falls Park, forerunner of the present Niagara Parks Commission. During his eight years charmanship (1885-1893), he was largely responsible for the original planning of the famed Niagara Parks System we enjoy today.

Sir Casimir also engineered the construction of the International Railway Bridge across the Niagara River, linking Fort Erie with Buffalo (1870-1873), considered to be one the North American continent up to that time.

Gzowski was born March 5, 1813, in St. Petersburg, Russia, of Polish parentage. He was exiled to the United States in 1833 for his part in the Warsow rebelion against Russia. In 1838 he became both a lawyer and a U.S. citizien; married Maria Beebe the next year. In 1841 he settled in Toronto as an engineer in the Canadian Department of Public Works and became a naturalized Canadian citizen in 1846. He engineered the construction of the Great Western Railroad from Toronto to Sarnia.

Gzowski was made a Colonel and Aide-de-Camp to Queen Victoria in 1879 and was knighted in 1890. He died in Toronto, Ontario, August 24, 1898, aged 85 years.

Stamp Issue: 1978-06-06
bl. 58, fdc 2413

Hot Springs in Taiwan

2009-01-07T00:01:00.004+01:00

Located on the seismic zone that rings the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan abounds with volcanic topography and geothermal energy. These are necessary for sulfur springs. What’s more, the metamorphic and sedimentary rock on the either side of the Central Mountain Range are full of minerals which react with hydrogen carbonate ions, which is necessary for carbonated springs. All told, there are over 100 hot springs of various kinds around the island. There are also very few cold springs. But Taiwan is endowed with hot springs, cold springs, murky hot springs, and seabed hot springs. In response to the government’s call to publicize the beauty of Taiwan’s hot springs so as to encourage citizens to take vacations, promote tourism and stimulate the economy, Chunghwa Post has chosen four different types of springs in four famous scenic locations as a set of four stamps on hot springs in Taiwan. The stamps feature the Yangmingshan Hot Springs, the Suao Cold Springs, the Guanziling Murky Hot Springs and the Green Island Seabed Hot Springs. On the upper left corner of each stamp is a teardrop-shaped window with the picture of a local landmark or vista. The main designs of the stamps feature images of people soaking in the springs, thus showing the pleasure involved. In the lower left corner of each stamp is a symbol that denotes hot springs.

1) Yangmingshan Hot Springs (NT$5): Most hot springs here are sulfur springs, with a temperature ranging between 60° to 70°C. This water is for bathing only. Approach Yangmingshan through Yangde Boulevard and then take the Yang-Jin Highway. Along the highway, many signs indicate previous volcanic activity. The landscapes of Siaoyoukeng and Sulfur Valley fumaroles are the spots that are well worth a stop. A picture of these fumaroles is found in the teardrop-shaped window on the upper left corner of the stamp.

2) Suao Cold Springs (NT$5): It rains a lot in the Suao area, and rainwater percolates down into the earth’s crust to a depth of about 2,000 meters, reaching cracks in the slate. Then, as a result of tectonic movement, the carbonate content in the rocks dissolves and releases a large amount of carbon dioxide, making the underground water bubbly and pushing it to the surface in the form of carbonated cold springs. The springs here are used for drinking as well as bathing. The temperature of the water is about 22°C. The design of the stamp includes Cold Springs Park and Nanfangao Bridge.

Nanfangao Bridge was inaugurated in June, 1998. The bridge connects Su-Ao Port and Nan-Fang-Ao. The single-arch suspension bridge has special fish, shrimp and crab designs on the bridge column that symbolize the ocean. There is also a landscape platform for tourists to overlook vessels in and out of the fishing port.

3) Guanziling Murky Hot Springs (NT$10): The rising spring water here brings minerals, salt and mud particles with them when it goes through the mudstone layers below the surface, making the spring water look murky and even black. Therefore, it is also known in Chinese as the Black Hot Spring. This is an alkaline carbonate spring, of a temperature about 75°C. This water is for bathing only. Featured in the teardrop-shaped window on the upper left corner of the stamp is a photo of the famous ShueiHuoTongYuan (which means “where water and fire spring from the same source”). The reason for this spectacular phenomenon is that spring water and natural gas are both coming out of the cliff surface at Mt. Jhentou, so that when the gas is lit, you get water and fire together.

4) Green Island Seabed Hot Springs (NT$25): The hot springs here rise out of groups of rocks and reefs along the shore. The temperature of these acidic sulfur springs ranges between 53° to 93°C. The water has a high salt content and is undrinkable. The teardrop-shaped window in the upper left corner features the island’s most famous landmark: the Green Island Lighthouse.

Stamp Issue: 2003-12-14

Taiwan Scenery

2009-01-06T22:42:00.004+01:00

Taiwan is a long, narrow island oriented in a north-south direction. Situated on the southeastern side of the Asian continent, on the island arc of East Asia, it occupies a pivotal link for transportation within the Asia-Pacific region. With air links in all directions, it is very convenient for traveling. The topography of Taiwan is very complex and diverse, and there is an abundance of dramatic scenery, including mountains, craggy hills, plains, basins, islands, longitudinal valleys and seacoasts. What’s more, with the Tropic of Cancer passing through the middle of Taiwan, there are tropical, subtropical and temperate ecosystems, and the resulting biodiversity constitutes a great resource for tourism. To promote the beauty of Taiwan to people abroad, Chunghwa Post has specially chosen four famous scenic spots for a set of Taiwan Scenery Postage Stamps.

1) Taichung’s Chungshan Park (NT$5): Built in 1903, it is also called Taichung Park. It has an area of 10.5 hectares. The graceful classical-styled Huhsin Pavilions in the park’s lake are its most representative feature. Their red roofs and snow-white walls resemble two bamboo hats. Among the most famous landmarks of Taichung City, these are great places for Taichung residents to relax.

Chungchen Bridge is a small stone arch bridge in Taichung’s Chungshan Park.

2) Ilan’s Dongshan River (NT$5): The Dongshan River, which has been straightened, is Ilan’s fifth largest river and one of the county’s most renowned scenic spots. Apart from the scenery along the river, the arched bridge spanning the river and its reflection in the water (which serve as a symbol for the Cingshuei Water Park) also provide beautiful vistas.

Lizegane Bridge crosses the Dongshan River.

3) Tianliao’s 'Moonscape'(NT$11): These 'badland' have been formed by years of strong rain and river erosion, which have washed away the soft, blue-gray and slightly salty mudstone to leave this barren and rugged 'moonscape.

4) Chenggong’s Sansiantai (NT$20): Sansiantai (Terrace of the Three Immortals) is a coral reef island with lots of huge rocks on land and coral reefs in the sea around it. With an area of about three hectares, the island is connected to Taiwan proper by a beautiful 320-meter-long footbridge.

Stamp Issue: 2003-10-28

The Summer Palace

2009-01-05T19:15:00.004+01:00

The Summer Palace or Yi he yuan 'Garden of Nurtured Harmony' is a palace in Beijing, China. The Summer Palace is mainly dominated by Longevity Hill (60 meters high) and the Kunming Lake. It covers an expanse of 2.9 square kilometers, three quarters of which is water. The central Kunming Lake covering 2.2 square kilometers was entirely man made and the excavated soil was used to build Longevity Hill. In its compact 70,000 square meters of building space, one finds a variety of palaces, gardens, and other classical-style architectural structures. In December 1998, UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List.

1. Shiqikong Bridge (Seventeen-Arch Bridge)

2. Long Corridor

3. The Marble Boat

4. Garden of Harmonious Interests

5. Yudai Bridge (Jade Belt Bridge)

6. Back Lake

Shiqi Kong Qiao (Seventeen-Arch Bridge)

Built in the 15th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign (1750), this 150-meter bridge links the east bank and the South Lake Island. It is the longest bridge in any Chinese imperial garden and was named for its seventeen arches. Over 500 stone lions in different poses are carved on the posts of the bridge's railings. At both ends of the bridge are carved four strange animals. Strong and powerful, they are outstanding evidence of Qing stone carving.

Yudai Qiao (Jade Belt Bridge)

Built during Emperor Qianlong's reign (1736-1795), this high and thin bridge was named Jade Belt Bridge because its body and railings are made of gray white or white marbles which combine to resemble a jade belt. Under the bridge, the Kunming Lake inlet led to Yu River. When the emperors and empresses went by boat from the Garden of Clear Ripples to Jade Spring Hills, they would pass under this bridge.

Stamp Issue: 2008-05-10

Suzhou-Nantong Yangtze River Bridge

2009-01-05T11:51:00.001+01:00

The Suzhou-Nantong Yangtze Highway Bridge, located between Suzhou and Nantong in Jiangsu Province and with a total length of 32.4 km, is the largest and most complicated bridge project in China's bridge-building history. Programmed by the Ministry of Communications of China, it is an important passage for national arterial highways to bridge over the Yangtze River, as well as an integral component of the highway framework of Jiangsu Province. This cable-stayed bridge has the world's longest span, deepest foundation, highest tower and longest cable. It is of great significance to perfecting the arterial highway networks of Jiangsu and the country at large, promoting the overall development in areas along the Yangtze River and improving shipping safety in the Yangtze River.

Stamp Issue: 2008-04-12

Ancient Bridges of China

2009-01-05T09:01:00.000+01:00

The four ancient Chinese bridges shown on the maxicards are all arch bridges. They are located in Suzhou of Jiangsu, Linying County of Henan, Beijing, and Jianshui County of Yunnan respectively.

The Maple Bridge in Suzhou,(1st constructed between the 6th-9th c.). The bridge viewed from alongside the watchtower. Hanshan Temple was built to the west of Suzhou where three canals intersect; one being the famous Grand Canal. At this junction, there is a bridge called the Maple Bridge (Fengqiao), which dates back at least to the Tang dynasty, as there is a well-known poem by the Tang poet, Zhang Ji, entitled, 'Mooring to the Maple Bridge at Night'. On Chinese New Years Eve, people gather at the bridge to hear the bells of Hanshan Temple, as described in the poem.

XiaoShang Bridge, a stone arch bridge,is the oldest stone arch bridge in the world, called 'the most beautiful ancient bridge', and prior to Zhaozhou Bridge. It once was identified by famous experts, such as Mao YiSheng, Luo Zhewen. The bridge has highly research value and is in fit for sightseeing.

The Lugou Bridge, also known as the Marco Polo Bridge, is a famous stone bridge located 15 km outside of the Beijing city center across the Yongding River a main tributary of Hai River.

Construction of the original bridge on this site commenced in 1189 and was completed in 1192 and was later reconstructed in 1698. The Lugou Bridge is 266.5 m (874 ft) in length and 9.3 m (30.5 ft) in width, supported on 10 piers and 11 segmental arches. Hundreds of artistically unique stone lions from different eras line both sides of the bridge. The most intriguing feature of these beasts is the fact that there are more lions hiding on the head, back or under the belly or on paws of each of the big lions. Investigations to determine the total number of animals have been carried out on several occasions but the results have proved inconsistent, ranging anywhere from 482 to 496. However, record has it that there were originally a total of 627 lions. The posture of each lion varies, as do their ages. Most date from the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, some are from the earlier Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368); while the few lions dating from as long ago as the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234) are now quite rare.

Shuanglong (Double Dragon) Bridge is five kilometers west of Jianshui, its arches across the confluence of the Lujiang River and the Tachong River. A combination of science and art, the stone bridge ranks first in Yunnan Province in terms of size and artistic value. When the bridge was built during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing dynasty, it had only three arches on the north end. Later on, as the Tachong River changed its course, fourteen new bridge arches were added to the original ones and thus got the name 'the Seventeen - Arch Bridge'. A pavilion of three stories was built in the middle, and two others at the two ends of the bridge. With seventeen arches, the pavilion-style Double Dragon Bridge is a Qing Dynasty masterpiece and one of the best examples of its type in China. It is also, by the by, surrounded by some fairly butt-ugly buildings and required some degree of mucking about in the fields to get this shot. Shuanglong Bridge is a masterpiece among ancient bridges in China. It is considered one of the beautifully built ancient bridge of the nation, and has been classified as an important cultural relic under provincial protection. Shuanglong Bridge is a nice surprise on the road. Under the lingering caress of the setting sun, the ancient stone bridge spans over 140 meters and was constructed with over ten thousand huge rocks boulders. A continuous fourteen arches helps the bridge to alleviate pressures brought by occasional floods.

Stamp Issue: 2003-03-29

Wuhu Yangtze River Bridge

2009-01-05T08:07:00.006+01:00

The Wuhu Bridge over the Yangtze River, a stayed-cable bridge for both highway and railway, is the first and largest of its kind designed independently by Chinese engineers. The Bridge, a key State-level project in the Ninth Five-Year Plan period, was constructed with joint investment by the Ministry of Railway and the Provincial Government of Anhui, and was put into operation in September 2000, after three-and-half years of construction. The bridge has a 10,624m long railway part and a 6,078m long highway part, with a main span of 312 meters. With a lot of advanced technologies adopted in the design work, this original bridge is a symbolic project of China's dual-purpose bridge construction in the 20th Century. Completing the railway and highway networks of eastern China, it bore great importance to the expansion of cargo and passenger transportations across the Yangtze River as well as to the economic development of the entire eastern China, especially Anhui Province.

Stamp Issue: 2001-09-20

Highway Bridges over the Yangtze River

2009-01-04T18:45:00.011+01:00

Wanxian Highway Bridge is a reinforced concrete arch bridge built over the Yangtze River in 1995. It is located in the vicinity of the Three Gorges Dam in Wanxian, Chongqing, China. Its arch is 420 metres and it is 864 m in length. During the bridge construction, a concrete-filled tubular arch truss frame was built to support the weight of the concrete arch and embedded into the concrete arch. The Wanxian Bridge is longest existing concrete arch bridge in the world. It is a major highway bridge with lanes for vehicles and pedestrians.

Huangshi Highway Bridge is a cantilever bridge. The total length of is 2,580m. Main span 245m (162.5+3×245+162.5)m continuous box girder.

Tongling Highway Bridge is a prestressed concrete cable stayed bridge with double towers and double cable planes. The total length of is 2,592m (80+90+190+432+190+90+80)m. This bridge was built up and opened to traffic on December 26th, 1995, and won China Construction Engineering Luban Prize in 2000.

Jiangyin Highway Bridge is the most seaward suspension bridge to cross the Yangtze River of China. The concrete towers are 190 metres tall, roughly equivalent in height to a 60 story building. It connects the cities of Jiangyin and Jingjiang. The main span of the bridge is 1,385 metres long, making it the sixth-longest span suspension bridge in the world and the largest in China at the time of its completion in 1999. The bridge opened on September 28, 1999.

Stamp Issue: 2000-03-26

EU Capital Cities

2008-12-31T21:45:00.001+01:00

This year the Polish Post has prepared a fourth edition of the "EU Capital Cities" series issued since 2005. The stamps are accompanied by five first day envelopes FDC and one anniversary date stamp, used in Warsaw 1 Postal Office. By now we have seen representative buildings of Budapest, Berlin, Dublin, Lisbon, London, Ljubljana, Luxembourg, Madrid, Paris, Riga, Rome, Stockholm, Tallinn, Valetta and Vilnius.

Prague - the Charles Bridge

Famous for the beautiful architecture Czech capital was established upon the joining of two cities of the early Middle Ages: Hradčany and Vyšehrad. The representative for ages seat of the Czech rulers was handed over in the 16th century to the house of Habsburg, and at the same time to be dominated by Vienna. Only the so called Czech National Revival in the 19th century restored the city's previous character. Prague was again the capital city in 1918 upon the creation of Czechoslovakia. In 1993 after the split of Czechoslovakia, the city became the capital city of the Czech Republic.

The Charles Bridge (by 2nd half of the 19 century called the Stone Bridge or the Prague Bridge) connects two districts: Malá Strana and Staré Mesto. It is 515 meters long and approximately 9.5 meters wide. It was built in the 14th century (replaced the 12th century Judith Bridge destroyed by flood), by 1741 was the only bridge on the Vltava river. Its Gothic character has been emphasised by the towers protecting the bridge. The famous 30 statues of saints were added only in the times of baroque.

Stamp Issue: 2008-10-24
number 4246

Gustave Alexandre Eiffel

2008-12-29T13:03:00.007+01:00

Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel (1832-1923), French engineer and builder, most famous for the construction of the tower in Paris that bears his name. Born in Paris, his family included artisans and timber and coal merchants. Eiffel was educated at the Lycée Royal in Dijon and the College Sainte-Barbe in Paris, and he graduated from the École Centrale des Arts et Manufactures in 1855, joining a company that produced steam engines.

In 1858 the company was granted a contract to erect a railway bridge in Bordeaux. Eiffel oversaw the construction with such success that in 1866 he founded his own company and soon became known for his wrought-iron structures. Starting in 1872 he attracted foreign contracts, and in 1877 he erected over the Douro River in Porto (Oporto), Portugal, a steel arch bridge 160 m (525 ft) in height.

Eiffel's work combined expert craftsmanship and graceful design, qualities that are evident in the Garabit viaduct in France. Completed in 1884, it was for a time the highest bridge in the world, winning Eiffel's factory a worldwide reputation for excellence. Eiffel cast Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi's colossal statue Liberty Enlightening the World, which was dedicated in New York in 1886. Soon after, he began work on his greatest project, the building of the Eiffel Tower. It was completed in 1889 for the celebration of the centennial of the French Revolution (1789-1799). The imposing tower—constructed of 7,000 tons of iron in 18,000 parts held together by 2,500,000 rivets—rises to a height of 300m (984 ft), and continues to dominate the Paris skyline. In the early 1890s Eiffel gave up the daily management of his business and became absorbed in the new science of aerodynamics.

Stamp Issue: 1982

Landmark Bridge of India

2008-12-19T23:18:00.003+01:00

Mahatma Gandhi Setu

Located at Patna, Bihar, is popularly known simply as Ganga Bridge. It stands at the place where Mahatma Gandhi crossed the river long back to go to Champaran, where he laid foundations ofstruggle that was to dislodge British, and hence the name. Opened to traffic on 02.03.1982 by the then Prime Minister, late Smt. Indira Gandhi, this is the longest single river bridge in the world. The bridge consists of 45 intermediate spans of 121.065 meters each, and two end spans of 63.53 meters each, having a total length of 5,565 meters. The superstructure of the bridge is a pre-stressed cantilever construction. The completion of the Mahatma Gandhi Setu marks a milestone in the history ofthe economic development of Bihar.

Vidyasagar Setu

The modern cable bridge known as Vidyasagar Setu lies across the river Hoogly. Affording a panoramic view of the skyline of Kolkata, it itself contributes to the grandeur of the city’s new skyline. Better known locally as the second Hoogly Bridge, built to provide an additional connector between the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah. Apart from Howrah Bridge, Vidyasagar Setu is 823 meters long, and 35 meters wide. Supported on four foundations, the height of the steel pylons over pillars is 120 meters. With a 4% longitudinal gradient, the bridge provides navigational clearance of 33.87 meter to 34.38 meter over the highest level to ensure safe passage underneath, of the international cargo ships, which cater to Kolkata Port. The bridge has also been connected with flyovers and ramps on either side to provide uninterrupted flow of traffic from both, the Kolkata and Howrah ends. This unique and longest cable stayed bridge, constructed at a cost of Rs. 380 crores, was thrown open to the nation by the hon’ble Prime Minister of India on 10th October 1992.

Howrah Bridge

The famous Howrah Bridge is one of the best known landmarks of Kolkata, a virtual ‘Gateway of Kolkata’, and an inseparable icon of the city, sharing a totemic relationship with its growth and evolution. The construction of a new ‘Suspension type balanced Cantilever Bridge’, without any intermediate pier, was conceived after the First World War, by a Committee chaired by the famous Bengali engineer and industrialist Sir R.N. Mukherjee after taking into account the hydraulic factors and the flow pattern of the river. A technological marvel, its construction was supervised by a newly formed specialized body viz., ‘The Howrah Bridge Commissioners’. Out of the 26,500 tonnes of steel used, around 3000 tonnes were imported and the rest was indigenously sourced through TISCO. The Bridge was opened to traffic in February, 1943, dismantling the earlier floating bridge. It was renamed as ‘Rabindra Setu’ on 14th June 1965, but continues to be referred to as Howrah Bridge in the popular lexicon. A suspension type balanced cantilever bridge, this is the fourth cantilever bridge in the world, with a central span of 1500 ft. between the centres of its main towers. Its anchor arms are 325 ft. long and the cantilever arms 468 ft. long at both ends, while the middle suspended span is 564 ft. The main towers soar 280 ft, high above the monoliths and are 76 ft. apart at the top. The bridge deck width is 71 ft., with two footpaths of 15 ft. on either side.

Pam ban Setu

Opened to traffic in 1914, the Pamban Bridge, also known as the Pamban Viaduct, forms part of the Rameswaram meter gauge section in Madurai Division of the Southern Railways. Constructed over 100 to 300 feet wide reef lying submerged between the mainland of India and the Island of Rameswaram, this bridge was built over the Palk Straits to reduce the gap in the rail systems between India and Sri Lanka (then Ceylon). The distance of 36 kms between Dhanushkodi, off Rameswaram Island, and Talaimannar, the railway terminus of Sri Lanka, was linked by ferry service, and direct rail cum ferry journey tickets were issued at both ends. ~ 2.06 kms long, the Pamban Bridge has 146 span of 40 feet clear, including one Scherzer lift span, which measure 213 feet, and remains a marvel of technology and a visual treat.

Stamp Issue: 2007-08-17

Bridges and Viaducts of Luxembourg

2008-12-10T23:39:00.006+01:00

Centenary of the Adolphe Bridge
The Adolphe Bridge in Luxembourg, also called the New Bridge, opened to traffic on 24 July 1903. Built during the reign of Grand Duke Adolphe, whose name it bears, this year it celebrates its one hundred years of existence. When it was opened, this engineering project, built as an extension of Boulevard Royal to connect the western half of the upper city to the Bourbon Plateau and the central train station district, was the largest stone arch bridge ever constructed and was admired by engineers around the world. A heterogeneous combination of classical concepts and reinforced concrete, the bridge, 153 m long, features a large double arch with a span of 85 m overhanging the Pétrusse valley 42 m below. It has become a symbol of the capital and is also at the heart of the celebrations for Luxembourg National Day when it is the venue for a traditional fireworks show.

Stierchen Bridge

By following the Corniche path from the Bock rock down to the "Grund Gate", a narrow zig-zagging path leads you to the bottom of the valley and to a small footbridge, the "Stierchen". This small stone bridge in the lower town of Luxembourg called "Grund", is part of the Wenceslas wall (Wenzelsmauer), fortifications which have been added to the World Heritage List by UNESCO. The medieval Stierchen bridge dates back to the end of the 14th century whereas the wall of which it forms a part was reinforced in the 16th century to meet the needs of the artillery.

The Victor Bodson Bridge (Hesperange Viaduct)

The Victor Bodson Bridge, also known as the Hesperange Viaduct, is located on the southeast freeway bypass of Luxembourg City and spans the Alzette valley at a height of 40 m in order to connect the plateaus of Howald and Itzig. The work is a symmetric cable-stayed structure with a single central concrete pylon 61 m in height and a sheet of radial cables, each half-sheet composed of 16 cables with lengths varying from 42 to 140 m. Viewed from far away the structure resembles a majestic sailing ship. The most unusual characteristic of the bridge, however, is the curve (R = 1,750 m) of the path it follows, a very rare feature for a cable-stayed bridge.

Stamp Issue: 2003-04-10

Philippine Colonial Bridges II

2008-11-29T15:53:00.012+01:00

Bridge building in the country is integral to the development of communities. It helps in the opening up of communities to various forms of land transport allowing thus the development of trade and relations between once distant and detached areas. The early history of bridge building was attributed to both the Spanish missionaries and conquistadors. During the early period of American rule, the Bureau of Public Works was created to initiate further the task of linking the Philippines together with spans that for some still serve the commuting public. The bridges highlight an architectural and engineering form that has served nobly the interest of the country.

Gasan Bridge, Gasan, Marinduque
Though no date was gathered pertaining to the building of the Gasan Bridge, it is known to be from the mid-to late American period. Built of concrete, the bridge spans the Matandang Gasan River. The bridge stands on plain concrete piers and is decked by concrete lattice work parapet walls. Recently, the bridge has been converted into a promenade with decorative lampposts installed and recent repainting.

Hinigaran Bridge, Hinigaran, Negros Occidental
Situated along kilometer 53 south of Bacolod in the town of Hinigaran is a 100.00 meters long Hinigaran Bridge. Spanning the river with the same name, Hinigaran Bridge was built in 1935 following a standard bridge design popularized during the time. Composed of 14 graceful piers supporting beams, the bridge, which is 6.00 meters wide, is designed with a protective parapet wall with balusters lining its side. This design which became standard for most bridges in the country still abounds throughout the archipelago. Like most American period bridges whose roadway is deemed narrow today, Hinigaran Bridge was decommissioned when the new alternative concrete bridge was constructed alongside it. Today, Hinigaran Bridge serves as a convenient platform and recreational space for "Talaba" breeders and local promenaders.

Wahig Bridge, Dagohoy, Bohol
Built in 1929, the Wahig Bridge in Dagohoy, Bohol links the inner towns of Dagohoy with Carmen, Bilar and Loboc to the south. Crossing the Wahig River, the bridge is of a single trussed span with a concrete abutment on both sides of the bridge's approach. Unlike other American era bridges which have been replaced in the past due to increasing traffic load, the Wahig bridge, being located in the interior road bisecting the island province experiences relatively light to moderate traffic load resulting in its still constant use and eventual survival.

Pan-ay Bridge, Pan-ay, Capiz
Spanning the Pan-ay River, Pan-ay Bridge is a single spanned segmented arched concrete bridge. Like most bridges built sometime in the 1930's, the Bureau of Public Works followed standard designs for most spans built around the country. Characteristic about these bridges is the use of closely spaced balusters to adorn and protect the edges of the bridge. Segmented arches were also popular in the design of the Bureau for it allowed a wider gap to be spanned compared to the rounded arch popularized by the Spanish builders which would require the building of added support piers. The Pan-ay Bridge is still much in use and connects the town proper of Pan-ay with Western towns of Capiz and Iloilo.

Quezon Bridge, Quiapo, Manila
Inaugurated in 1938, the Quezon Bridge, also referred to as the Quiapo Bridge, replaced a much earlier narrow suspension bridge, the Puente Colgante built in 1852. The bridge designed to mimic the famous Sydney Harbor Bridge is in the Art Deco style with elegant approach towers supporting the single metal trussed arched span. Unlike other bridges that span the Pasig River, Quezon Bridge has a relatively high clearance and a long northern approach which allows below its numerous supporting arches shops and stalls to be located. This has become famous for the cacophony of locally made products and handicrafts sold underneath the bridge as well as a convenient turn-around for vehicles plying the bridges access road, Quezon Boulevard. Quezon Bridge was damaged during the Second World War, and unlike other bridges that spanned the Pasig was reconstructed in 1946 following its original design.

Governor Reynold's Bridge, Guinobatan, Albay
Bridge was inaugurated in 1911 and is composed of two reinforced arched spans. Traversing the Banao River, it links the town of Guinobatan with that of Lig-ao and Camarines Sur further north. When built it cost the American colonial government P40,000 pesos. Governor Reynold's Bridge replaced an earlier span built during the Spanish colonial period in 1860 which itself was subsequently destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1864. The bridge was designed with two reinforced concrete arch spans supporting concrete piers holding the road deck. This design was utilized by the American engineers for many similar spans found throughout the country. Governor Reynold's Bridge, which amongs the locals is more familiar as the Banao Bridge still facilitates all forms of road traffic almost a hundred years since it was inaugurated.

Mauca Railway Bridge, Ragay, Camarines Sur
Built in 1937 in time for the inauguration of the South line to Bicol in 1938, the Mauca Railway Bridge is unique not for its length but more for its uniqueness due to its construction, with box girders along its approaches and an inverted truss designed like an arch situated in the bottom of the deck crossing the river. The bridge which spans the Mauca River still carries rolling stock, from trains to the more frequent makeshift trolleys that serve most of the railway communities along the track.

Balucuan Bridge, Dao, Capiz
In the town of Dao spanning the Balucuan River in the Province of Capiz stands a single spanned bridge known as Balucuan Bridge. Though no year was gathered as to its building, its design and construction is inimical to other American period concrete arched spans such as the Governor Reynold's Bridge in Albay. The bridge is composed of only one concrete arch span that supports above its arch with small arches holding the road deck. The deck itself is only 4.40 meters wide while the bridge is roughly 20.00 meters long. Today built almost beside it, a new wider span carries the growing traffic along the main national road that links Capiz with Iloilo, Balucuan Bridge today has been sidelined and has become for the town of Dao a sort of linear garden and greeting station for those entering town.

Stamp Issue: 2008-05-16

Bridge of Taiwan (II)

2008-11-27T10:58:00.008+01:00

Following the first set released in April of 2007, this Post is issuing the second set in its “Bridges of Taiwan” series, which features bridges of central Taiwan. Their designs follow:

1) Wurih Bridge, Taichung (NT$5.00):

Spanning the Han River, this beautiful cable-stayed bridge is the gateway to Taiwan High Speed Rail’s Wurih Station for Taichung City, Taichung County and the Nantou area. Opened to traffic in January of 2004, it has a total length of 179 meters and a width of over 20 meters. This stylish steel bridge has become a new landmark in Wurih township.

2) Jilu Bridge, Nantou (NT$5.00):

Spanning the Jhuoshuei River, the Jilu Bridge connects Jiji and Lugu Townships. It was opened to traffic in 2004 and has a total length of 967 meters and a width of 24 meters. It was the first side-spar cable-stayed bridge entirely built of concrete in Taiwan. The under-the-bridge illumination creates spectacular nighttime scenery. The bridge supports both transportation and tourism.

3) Shueiyun Bridge, Shueili (NT$12.00):

Spanning the Shueili River, the bridge has a total length of 96 meters and a width of 3 meters. Completed in 2005, it was the first bridge in Nantou County to fully adopt solar lighting for nighttime illumination. Its colorful flashing lights are a traffic stopper.

4) Sindong Bridge, Miaoli (NT$15.00):

Spanning the Houlong River, this bridge in Gongguan Township is the gateway to Miaoli City. Opened to traffic in 1997, this symmetrical twin-tower cable-stayed bridge has a total length of over 320 meters and a width of 21 meters.

Stamp Issue: 2008-05-12

Bridge of Taiwan (I)

2008-11-27T10:24:00.016+01:00

Human civilizations have usually started around rivers, and bridges have continuously helped civilizations move to new realms. Today, bridges not only serve a transportation function but also spur economic and cultural development. There are different types of bridges for different geographic environments, and often bridges become fixtures in the local landscape and symbols of a locale. To introduce the beauty of Taiwan bridges, Taiwan Post is issuing a set of four stamps featuring bridges of northernTaiwan. The designs of the stamps follow:

1) The Kanjin Bridge, Taoyuan (NT$5.00):

Spanning the Dahan River, around a kilometer upstream of the Wuling Bridge, this silver gray steel arch bridge has become a new landmark in Dasi, Taoyuan County. The Kanjin Bridge was completed in August, 2002. It has a total length of over 800 meters and a width of over 20 meters.

2) The Fusing Bridge, Luofu (NT$5.00):

There are two bridges that connect Luofu village with Siayunping. The lavender Fusing Bridge, completed in 1966, is an old suspension bridge with a total length of some 150 meters and a width of some 4 meters. The retired Fusing Bridge was then turned into a footbridge where pedestrians can take in a panoramic view of the beautiful

surroundings. It is now one of the great scenic overlooks of the North Cross-Island Highway.

3) The MacArthur Second Bridge, Taipei (NT$12.00):

Finished in 1995, this basket handle Nielsen Type steel arch bridge is the first of its kind in Taiwan, measuring 400 meters long and 18.7 meters wide. Its "basket handle" and cables (stretched at 60-degree angle) give it a three-dimensional structural power and beauty.

4) The Dajhih Bridge, Taipei (NT$15.00):

The Dajhih Bridge is the first cable-stayed bridge with a single pylon in the shape of a fishing rod in the city. In January 2003, the main span was opened to traffic. The bridge has a total length of 820. At night, when its red cables and pylon are illuminated, it sets off the beautiful scenery of neighboring Keelung River Park.

Stap Issue: 2007-04-12

Bridge of New Zealand

2008-11-26T22:54:00.008+01:00

Shotover bridge - 35c
The road bridge across the Shotover River in Central Otago was described at its opening in 1975 as "mathematical precision combined with beautiful form". The two-lane carriageway is 320 metres long and is made up of 169 pre-cast, pre-tensioned concrete box girder sections.

Alexandra Bridge - 40c
Steel was the chosen material for the bridge built over the Clutha River at Alexandra in 1958 to replace a bridge built in 1882. Spanning some 158 metres the new tied-steel arch bridge incorporated special design features. It is anchored to one abutment by means of a hinge and there are bearings, or rollers on the other abutment and all the piers, that allow the bridge to freely expand and contract.

South Rangitikei Rail Bridge - 45c
The South Rangitikei rail bridge forms part of the main trunk railway line north of Mangaweka in the central North Island. Because of the danger of flash floods and earthquakes the bridge is able to move and in the event of an earthquake the legs of the high slender piers are designed to alternatively lift off their foundations.

Twin Bridges - 70c
An unusual bridge located at the confluence of the Mangkahia and Awarua rivers in Whangarei county, Northland, is the subject of the fourth stamp. Twin Bridges takes its name from two bridges built there in the 1920s. These were replaced in 1970 by a single reinforced concrete structure but the name remains. A feature of the new bridge is a 19 metre landing which branches off to give access to farm land which would otherwise be isolated by the convolutions of the two rivers.

Stamp Issue: 1985-06-12

Bridges and Engineering Structures

2008-11-24T17:00:00.008+01:00

A bridge is a form of cultural expression, a form of sculpture with a utilitarian function; sculpture for its lines, utilitarian for its practical purpose - connect two shores or two disconnected points.

Arrabida Bridge Oporto

The Arrabida Bridge was one most innovative projects of the last century, not only in Portugal but throughout the world, however its history and building tell a tale of controversy and courage. During construction, its 270-metre span (which for same time held the world record for comparable reinforced concrete structures) and single arch attracted the attention of engineering experts from around the world, who flocked to Portugal from all corners of the earth to witness the collapse of this engineering feat designed by Edgar Cardoso. In the event, to the sheer astonishment of the era's best reputed civil engineers, the bridge did not collapse and still standing today. This is the story of the Arrabida Bridge, completed in 1963 at the peak of Edgar Cardoso's international prestige.

25 de Abril Bridge, Lisbon
Inaugurated on 6th August 1966 and a landmark of Lisbon ever since, the 25 de Abril Bridge is a road and rail suspension bridge connecting the city of Lisbon to the city of Almada and a vital element in the country's transport system. Its original name, Salazar Bridge, was changed to 25 de Abril shortly after the revolution of 25th April 1974. At the time of its construction, the total cost of the bridge came to 11 million Euros. On the date of this inauguration, this impressive bridge was the fifth biggest suspension bridge in the world and the largest outside the USA. Forty years on, it is still the 66th largest in the world.

Santa Clara Bridge, Coimbra
Over the centuries, several bridge have been built at similar locations across the river Mondego in Coimbra. The first was built at the order of King Afonso Henriques in 1132; four centuries later, King Manuel ordered another, and it is this latter bridge that can be seen in engravings and photograph. Demolished in 1873, plans for the present day construction, a metal bridge with lower deck, began in 1946. The new Santa Clara Bridge over Coimbra's river Mondego, an undisputed emblem of the city Coimbra, was inaugurated on 30th October, 1954.

Amiza de Bridge, Minho/Galicia

The new bridge over the river Minho, connecting Vila Nova de Cerveira and Goian in the Galician municipality of Tomino, was inaugurated in June 2004. Named the 'Ponte da Amizade' or Bridge of Frendship, it stands as a symbol of relations between the Poruguese and Spanish. Built of pre-stressed reinforced concrete and 430 metres long, it was the fulfilment of a dream long cherished by the local populations, complementing the road link between Minho and Galicia.

Moisteiro Bridge over the River Douro, Oporto

Anyone traveling along the banks of the river Douro in the Albufeira do Carrapatelo region of cruising along the Douro on a tourist boat cannot fail to be struck by the rare beauty of the Mosteiro Bridge. The elegance and lightness of its remarkable concrete structure made almost diaphanous by a fine concrete truss structure are accentuated by the curved deck that extends over the river supported at either end by the pillars of the old bridge. Built by Empresa Industrial do Norte, it was dynamited by the monarchists in 1919, restored in 1927 and rehabilitated by Estradas de Portugal (Portuguese Road Administration) in 2008.

Bridge over the River Arade, Portimao

Inaugurated on 12th September, 1991, the bridge over the river Arade is remarkable feat of engineering. A cable-stayed bridge with one central span and two side spans, it extends 842 metres, supported only at its two ends and suspended entirely from its towers. It is built totally of prestressed reinforced concrete and stays of steel strand. It plays a pivotal role in the economic development of the Arade estuary zone, revitalizing a geographic area of huge strategic and economic interest and a zone of unique beauty.

Stamp Issue: 2008-10-16

Iberian Bridges

2008-11-24T16:00:00.007+01:00

Joint issue Portugal with Spain.

Of the 1215 kilometres of frontier separating Portugal and Spain, almost 400 - around one third - are marked out by extensive stretches of the rivers Minho, Douro. Tagus and Guadiana, all of which originate in Spain. Since immemorial time, these rivers have been the setting for both conflict and peace between the peoples on the two sides. Occupying a well-defined geographic macro-area - the Iberian Peninsula - the Portuguese and Spanish have a common history dating back many thousands of years. In the past, they lived united under one power for over one thousand years: first the Roman Empire (3rd century BC to 5th century AD), followed by the Suevi and Visigoths (6th and 7th centuries) and finally the Arab Empire (8th to 11th centuries).

The Alcantara Bridge (from the Arab Al-qantara, meaning "bridge"), designed by Gaius Julius Lacer, was built during the romanisation of Iberia in around 106 AD. Today, the history of this Iberian monument standing 61 metres high, 194 long and 8 wide, where the Alagon and Tagus rivers meet and as the latter enters its international section, is an eloquent testimony to centuries of Portuguese-Spanish relations.

Some nineteen hundred years later, the International Bridge over the river Guadiana connecting Vila Real de Santo Antonio in Portugal and Ayamonte in Spain was built. Inaugurated in 1991, this pre-stressed concrete cable-stayed bridge, with a 324 metres span, is a symbol of modern-day relations between the two countries, which since 1986 have been developing under the auspices of a larger and more powerful institution - the European Union.

Stamp Issue: 2006-09-14

Landmark Bridge

2008-11-24T08:37:00.016+01:00

The featured bridges in this commemorative stamp issue span Australia’s history and show a diversity of construction materials and styles ranging from the stone bridge of convict days to the engineering and architectural wonders of current times. The bridges are ‘landmarks’ because of their physical position and status, or their historic or engineering qualities.

Ross Bridge, Tasmania
Spanning the Macquarie River, the elegant Ross Bridge was completed in 1836 and is regarded as the finest masonry bridge of its period. It is renowned for its decorative carved stonework depicting Celtic symbols and images of contemporary figures. Government engineer John Lee Archer was commissioned to build the bridge, and although Archer designed it, credit for its construction belongs to two convict stonemasons, James Colbeck and Daniel Herbert, who were emancipated on completion of the bridge. The sandstone bridge has three equal arches and is flanked at each corner by curved flights of stone steps sweeping down to the river banks. However the bridge’s real distinction comes from the 186 carvings on the arches. Some of the carvings are symbolic or iconographic. Others are representational, depicting people, dogs and other animals, birds, sheaves of wheat and bales of wool, and so on.

Lockyer Creek Bridge, Queensland
Located between Helidon and Murphy’s Creek the Lockyer Creek Bridge was built in 1911, and is one of two similar cast-in-situ reinforced concrete arch railway bridges in this locality. The bridge has three spans, each supported on two arches. This elegant bridge was a major engineering achievement at the time, and is still one of the largest spans of its type in Australia.
Lockyer Creek Bridge, which still carries main line rail traffic, has been placed on the Queensland Heritage Register. In Australia concrete arch railway bridges are unique to Queensland and South Australia.

Sydney Harbour Bridge, New South Wales
Australia’s most famous bridge, and one of the largest single-arch steel bridges in the world, links Sydney’s central city with North Sydney. It carries eight lanes of road traffic and two railway tracks, a footway and a cycle path. Since 1998 the bridge has also become an adventure destination for thousands of tourists who undertake the acclaimed BridgeClimb. The arch, which was built out progressively from each shore, was joined successfully on the night of 19 August 1930. Over the next 18 months the steel decking was hung from the arch and the roadway completed. The four pylons at each end of the bridge are purely decorative. They were made of concrete and faced with granite, transported to the site by three purpose-built ships.

Birkenhead Bridge, South Australia
Built in 1940 Birkenhead Bridge services both road and shipping traffic for South Australia’s major port, Port Adelaide. The twin bascule span bridge crosses the upper reaches of the Port River and links the LeFevre Peninsula with the Adelaide metropolitan area. ‘Bascule’ refers to the ‘see-saw’ action of the lifting mechanism. Each leaf or slab of the bridge is counterbalanced with weights inside the bases of the structure, allowing them to tilt upwards to allow ships through without using too much power. The bridge opens for vessels which cannot otherwise pass under it.

Bolte Bridge, Victoria
With its four spans the six-lane Bolte Bridge is one of the largest balanced cantilever cast-
in-situ box girder bridges in Australia. Bolte Bridge crosses the Yarra River west of the city of Melbourne. The bridge is a vital part of City Link, a city bypass designed to minimise traffic crossing the city centre and relieve traffic congestion on arterial and local roads. Five land-based piers support the bridge. The central pier is set on a man-made island in the middle of the river.
Although they serve no structural purpose the elegant twin towers at the centre of the bridge are its distinguishing feature. Made of reinforced concrete, the slender towers create a dramatic visual focal point and a powerful new landmark for Melbourne.

Stamp Issue: 2004-03-02

Bridges of Malaysia

2008-11-20T18:14:00.037+01:00

This series showcase these innovative bridges up to the time of Malaysia's Independence in 1957. This collection of historical structures that have played a major role in the growth of industries like tin mining, rubber and the overall economy of the nation are given due recognition.

Merdeka Bridge, Kedah
The Merdeka Bridge, built in 1955, was officially launched in 1957, the year Malaya achieved independence. Spanning the Sungei Muda, the longest river in Kedah, the bridge serves a major link for transportation of goods and people. The river also marks the border between Penang and Kedah. Sungei Muda also provides water for consumption and irrigation of rice fields to Penang's province of Seberang Perai. This concrete truss girder bridge was designed and built by the Malaysian Public Works Department.

Victoria Bridge in Karai
The oldest railway bridge in Malaya is the Victoria Bridge in Karai, Perak. Built in 1897 by the Perak State Railway, it was the most advanced bridge in terms of its engineering in the Far East at that time. This bridge provided a communication link for the growth of the tin mining industry and the development of the mining towns in the Malayan Peninsular. With the opening of this bridge, the whole of the west coast from Perai to Johor Bahru was linked by rail.

Kota Bridge, Klang
The city of Klang is divided by the Klang River and was linked by the Brickfield Bridge built in 1907. It was destroyed in 1941 during World War II, resulting in great difficulty in transportation and communication, especially for goods transported from Klang Port to other cities. In 1958 a double decker bridge was constructed, the first such bridge in Malaya, with a pedestrian walkway at the lower half. This double decker truss girder bridge was named the Kota Bridge (Jambatan Kota).

Sungai Segamat Bridge
This bridge was build in 1933, to provide means of transportation to the Segamat district as an initiative by the government to develop the district for its agricultural activities and to boost its economy. The Sungai Segamat Bridge is a Steel Pratt Girder Bridge type with the length of 99.43 metres. It provides railway crossing over the Segamat River.

Stamp Issue: 2008-02-28

Korean Bridge Series (4th)

2008-11-20T11:37:00.008+01:00

In this fourth segment of the Korean Bridge series, such representative suspension and truss bridges of Korea as Gwangan Bridge, Seongsu Bridge, Seongsan Bridge, and Yeongjong Bridge are featured. A suspension bridge has two main towers at each end, between which cables hang. A truss bridge is shored up by a web of triangles composed of timbers or steel rods.

(1) Gwangan Bridge
Gwangan Bridge lies across the sea between Namcheon-dong, Suyeong-gu and U-dong, Haewundae-gu of Busan city. It was completed in 2002 as a double-deck bridge combining the features of a suspension bridge as well as a truss bridge. Of its total length of 7,420m, the suspension-bridge section extends 900m. This is the longest among all suspension bridges in Korea, thus launching a new era in Korea's bridge construction methods. Boasting beautiful illumination comprising about 100,000 different colors, the Bridge provides a splendid sight. The bridge is 18~25m wide.

(2) Seongsu Bridge
Linking Seongsu-dong and Apgujeong-dong of Seoul, Seongsu Bridge is 1,160m long. To relieve the traffic congestion of Seoul, the Bridge was completed in 1979 as a truss-bridge, becoming the 11th bridge built over Han River. Since its disastrous collapse in 1994, two rounds of restoration work were conducted. In 1997, the Bridge was reopened with 4 lanes that only directly linked North to South, with no ramps to enter from adjoining roads. In 2004, the Bridge width was expanded from 19.4m to 35m, becoming an 8-lane bridge.

(3) Seongsan Bridge
Boasting excellent representative beauty through the representation of harmony between half-moon-shaped Oriental curvature and lineal beauty, Seongsan Bridge was completed in 1980 as the 12th bridge over Han River. Linking Mangwon-dong and Yanghwa-dong of Seoul, the Bridge connects to Seobu Trunk Road and Gyeongin Highway. As a result, much traffic crosses over the Bridge. As a truss bridge, the Bridge is 1,415m long and 27m wide and has 6 lanes.

(4) Yeongjong Bridge
Shaped after traditional eaves of time-honored Korean houses, Yeongjong Bridge links Gyeongseo-dong (Jang Island) and Unbuk-dong (Yeongjong Island) of Incheon City. The Bridge was completed in 2000 after 60 months of construction that started in 1995. As the exclusive link to Incheon International Airport, the Bridge has two decks which are used for both general traffic and railroad conveyance. The Bridge is 36.1m wide and 4,420m long, 550m of which comprise the suspension bridge section and 2,250m for the truss bridge section.

Stamp Issue: 2007-09-28

Korean Bridge Series (3rd)

2008-11-20T11:27:00.003+01:00

In this third series of Korean bridges, such representative cable-stayed bridges of Korea as the Olympic Bridge, Seohae Bridge, Jindo Bridge, Changseon-Samcheonpo Bridge are introduced. Utilized when the distance between bridge columns is lengthy, cable-stayed bridges present a beautiful appearance shored up by cables hanging from the main tower.

(1) Olympic Bridge
In commemoration of the 1988 Seoul Olympic Game, the Olympic Bridge was completed in 1990, linking Guui-dong, Gwangjin-gu and Pungnap-dong Songpa-gu. At the center of the Bridge stands its 88m-high main tower that symbolizes the 1988 Seoul Olympic Game. At each side of the main tower are 12 hanging cables, with the number of cables totaling 24, meant to symbolize the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul. The Bridge is 30m wide and 1.47km long, of which the cable-stayed section of the bridge extends 300m.

(2) Seohae Bridge
Its supports shaped like the Seohae Bridge links Pyeongtaek city, Gyeonggi Province and Dangjin county, South Chungcheong Province. Opened in 2000, this Bridge is emerging as the gateway to the West Sea commerce that will lead the era of Northeast Asian trade. As the largest cable-stayed bridge in Korea, its main towers are 182m high and the distance between each is 470m, allowing a 50,000-ton vessel to pass between them under the Bridge. The Bridge is 31.41m wide and 7.31km long, of which the cable-stayed section of the bridge is 990m.

(3) Jindo Bridge
Laid across the Wooldolmok Straits (also called Myeongryang Straits), which is famous for Admiral Yi Sunshin¡'s sweeping victory over the Japanese forces, the Jindo Bridge links Jindo county and Haenam county in South Jeolla Province. This Bridge was constructed using as its inspiration the Joseon naval forces and the womenfolks performing during the Japanese invasion of Korea. Opened in 1984 as the nation's first cable-stayed bridge, this Bridge has now become a twin bridge, as the second Jindo Bridge was added in 2005. The two Jindo Bridges are both 484m long, with their width being 11.7m and 12.5m, respectively.

(4) Changseon-Samcheonpo Bridge
Opened in 2003, the Changseon-Samcheonpo Bridge links Namhae county and Sacheon city in South Gyeongsang Province. Comprised of four sub-bridges (the Samcheonpo Bridge, Choyang Bridge, Neukdo Bridge and Changseon Bridge) and harmonized with the superb scenic beauty of Hallyeohaesang National Maritime Park, the Bridge presents a magnificent spectacle. Of the four sub-bridges, only the Samcheonpo Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge. Changseon-Samcheonpo Bridge is 3.4km long (Samcheonpo Bridge section being 436m) and 14.5m wide.

Stamp Issue: 2006-09-26

Korean Bridge Series (2nd)

2008-11-20T11:17:00.002+01:00

The second part of the Korean Bridge series presents postage stamps with arch bridges, including Hangang Bridge, Expogyo (Bridge), Tongyeong Bridge, and Banghwa Bridge.
Built from as early as 4000B.C., arch bridges have architecturally ideal structures, as arches dissipate loads effectively. Not only that, arch bridges have long been popular for their beauty. Historic literature shows that Koreans also built arch bridges from the 8th century including Cheongungyo (Bridge) and Baegungyo (Bridge) at Bulguksa temple.

(1) Hangang Bridge
Hangang Bridge, also known as a "pedestrian bridge" as it was mostly used by people and carriages, was built in 1917 as a gateway from the center of Seoul to Noryangjin in the southern part of the city. As traffic increased, the bridge was reconstructed as an arch bridge in 1937. In 1982, an identical bridge was built next to it, constituting twin bridges. Length: 841m Width: 20m

(2) Expogyo (Bridge)
Expogyo (Bridge) was built in 1993 over Gapcheon stream stretching from Daejeon city center to Yuseong city in time for the successful hosting of the 1993 Daejeon International Expo. A red and a blue arch cross above the bridge, symbolizing the Great Absolute of Yin and Yang. Also, 100 cables were installed in the shape of a folding fan to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Korea's first participation in an International Exposition. Length: 330m Width: 18m

(3) Tongyeong Bridge
Tongyeong Bridge, which links Dang-dong and Misu-dong over Chungmu canal, was opened to public in 1998. Over the span of its 149-meter long arch, 196 lights were installed, which reflect a rugby ball shape of lights over the canal at night, in a feast of lights along with green lighting. Length: 591m Width: 20.7 m.

(4) Banghwa Bridge
Banghwa Bridge, completed in 2000, was designed to be reminiscent of the landing and taking off of planes. This 27th bridge over the Han River links Banghwa-dong in Gangseo-gu, Seoul and Goyang City in Gyeonggi-do. The total length of the bridge is 2, 559 meters, which is the longest of the bridges over the Han River. With a width of 31.11m and 6 lanes in both directions, the bridge greatly improves the flow of traffic to and from the airport.

Stamp Issue: 2005-09-23

Korean Bridge Series (1st)

2008-11-20T11:07:00.004+01:00

The Korea Post will issue the "Korean Bridge Series" during the next five years to introduce the beauty of Korean bridges. In the first stamps of the series, old bridges that give a hint of the wisdom and artistic sense of Korea's ancestors are introduced.

(1) Jincheon Nongdari Bridge
(Tangible Cultural Asset No. 28 of Chungcheongbuk-do Province) Located at Segeumcheon Stream in Jincheon, Chungcheongbuk-do Province, the bridge is quite unique as it is constructed of small pebbles assembled as if they were the scales of a fish. Presumed to have been built in the late Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), the original length of the bridge is estimated to have been more than 100 meters. Now, however, the bridge is 93 meters long and only 25 piles among the original 28 remain. With a width of more than 1 meter, the bridge remains intact until this day, having withstood the harsh summer monsoon seasons even though no lime or other adhesive building material was used in construction, indicating how advanced scientific methods of construction were at the time.

(2) Seungseongyo Bridge
(Treasury No. 400) Situated at Seonamsa Buddhist Temple in Suncheon, Jeollanam-do Province, the Seungseongyo Bridge is a granite structure built in the shape of an arch. Constructed during the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910), the foundation of the bridge is made of natural rocks, and the construction is sophisticated enough to withstand powerful floods. When constructing the bridge, long carved rocks were connected with each other to create a rainbow-shape arch, which forms a complete half circle. And at the center of the bridge, a rock is carved in the shape of a dragon's head that protrudes to the below, creating an ornamental effect and adding beauty to the bridge.

(3) Geumcheongyo Bridge
Located at Changdeokgung Royal Palace, which is registered as UNESCO's World Cultural Asset, Geumcheongyo Bridge was constructed in 1411 (11th year of King Taejong's reign during the Joseon Dynasty) and is the oldest stone bridge among those remaining in Seoul. Standing 12.9 meters long and 12.5 meters wide, two arches are built from the foundation rocks in the stream bed. A rock carved in the shape of a mythical unicorn lion is located on the south side of the foundation rock, and that of a turtle is installed on the north side. Behind the carved rocks where the arches meet, is a carving of the face of a ghost, which is meant to chase away demons.

(4) Jeongotgyo Bridge
(Historical Asset No. 160) Located at Seongdong-gu, Seoul is the Jeongotgyo Bridge (also known as the Salgojidari Bridge) which was a major transportation route linking Hanyang (the capital city of the Joseon Dynasty) and the southeastern region. The bridge, the biggest of its kind built during the early Joseon Dynasty, is made of 64 rock pillars. To reduce the resistance of the water, the rock pillars were cut into diamond shapes. Unfortunately, parts of the bridge were damaged due to torrential rains during the 1920s. The bridge was restored in the 1970s; however, its appearance does differ from that of the original.

Stamp Issue: 2004-09-24

Bridges of Rhodesia

2008-11-13T12:39:00.015+01:00

3d. This stamp shows a Low-level Bridge or causeway. The majority of these bridges were built between 1926 and 1933 in an endeavour to improve Rhodesia's road communications at a low cost. Grants from the Beit Trust. Although under water at time during a particularly heavy rainy season the bridge provided and still do in some places, a sure and safe crossing point for most of the year.

9d. The subject of this stamp is the bridge over the Mpudzi river 26 miles from Umtali on the Umtali-Birchenough road. The single 100-foot span which rises 40 feet from the river is an open spandrel twin-rib arch with a trestle approach. The bridge has a double carriageway and an overall length of 220 feet. It was designed and built by the Southern Rhodesia Government and was comleted in September, 1961.

1/6d. The bridge depicted on this stamp crosses the Umniati river 116 miles from Salisbury on the main trunk road to Bulawayo and is typical of those found on Rhodesian highways today. This high-lever all-weather has an overall length of 500 ft. and consists of five filled spandrel arches with spans of 100 ft. on mass concrete abutments and piers. This was also designed and built by the Southern Rhodesia Government. It was completed in September, 1956.

2/6. This stamp depicts one of the most well know of Rhodesian Bridge - The Birchenough Bridge which crosses the Sabi river 71 miles from Umtali on the road to Fort Victoria. It was a gift to the people of Southern Rhodesia from Beit Trust and was named after the Charmain of the Beit Railway Trust, Sir Harry Birchenough. The single arch of the bridge rises 280 ft. above the river and has a span of 1,080 ft. The bridge which weighs 1,500 tons, was designed by Sir Ralph Freeman on the lines of his bridge over Sidney Harbour and was built by Messrs Dorman Long Limited of Great Britain. The bridge was opened by Sir Herbert Stanley, Governor of Southern Rhodesia in 1935.

Stamp Issue: 1969-09-18

Charles Bridge - 650 years

2008-11-12T15:32:00.008+01:00

Charles Bridge is the oldest bridge in Prague. It belongs to the most beautiful bridges in the world. Originally it was called the Stone Bridge, later Prague Bridge. In 1870 it was renamed Charles Bridge. It is located in the place of the original Romanesque Juditin Bridge, destroyed by the 1342 floods. The base stone of the new bridge was laid by the Emperor Charles IV on 9.7.1357 at 5:31 a.m., which was the best time according to astrologers. The construction was committed to Petr Parléř and his works. The bridge, almost 520 m long, up to 10 m wide and based on 16 arches, was finished in 1402. At that time it belonged to the largest ones in Europe. It is made of sandstone blocks and protected by towers erected on both its ends. The Old Town Bridge Tower is considered as one of the most beautiful gothic buildings. The bridge is the gallery of 30 mostly baroque sculptures made, inter alia, by M. B. Braun and F. M. Brokoff. The sandstone original sculptures have gradually been replaced with replicas. Until the 20th century Charles Bridge was used as a major way of communication. From 1965 it has been used by pedestrians only and is one of the most attractive Prague sights.The miniature sheet and the postage stamp commemorate the 650th anniversary of the beginning of construction of this gothic jewel.

Stamps Issue: 2007-06-20

Bridges in Poland

2008-11-11T17:00:00.003+01:00

First Day Cover The Polish Post presents a series of 4 stamps with famous Polish bridges constructed in the 19th, 20th and 21st century.

Bridge in Maurzyce
The first welded bridge in the world was designed by engineer Stefan Bryła in 1928. It was built on the Słudwia river (left Bzura's tributary). Welding significantly decreased the bridge's weight; earlier steel elements used to be joined by rivets or bolts. The bridge's weight is 55 tons.

Ernest Malinowski bridge in Toruń
An iron truss bridge for railway built between 1870-1873 to connect railway lines and serve as fortifications in a lower part of the Vistula river. It covers the so - called Stara Wisła and Kępa Bazarowa. Its 20 meter high towers were decorated with figures that were removed in 1920 as they reminded of the town's Prussian history. The towers themselves were disassembled in the 50's of the 20th century. By 1934 it was the only bridge in Toruń for trains, cars and pedestrians. The bridge was destroyed two times in the II World War - by the Polish troops (in September 1939) and then by the German troops (in January 1945). After the war, the bridge was rebuilt. In 1999 it was named by Ernest Malinowski - famous engineer who constructed a railway line in the Andes.

Siekierkowski Bridge in Warsaw
Built between 2000-2002, however planned already during the interwar period. It is one of the elements of the 8-km long Trasa Siekierkowska yet to be finished. This seventh bridge on the Vistula river is a cable-stayed bridge supported by two pylons, with no pillars in the river current. Its characteristic orange cables are to warn and protect birds against any crashing.

Poniatowski Bridge in Warsaw
Built between 1904-1914 as a Warsaw's third bridge on the Vistula river, designed by engineers M. Marszewski and W. Paszkowski and supervised by S. Szyller - author of the Warsaw University of Technology (Politechnika Warszawska) buildings. Its characteristic features are neo-Polish renaissance towers and pavilion on the viaduct over Powiśle. Poniatowski bridge was seriously damaged in 1915 by the retreating Russian troops and rebuilt in 1921-1926. It was on this bridge when in 1926, during the May Coup d'Etat, Józef Piłsudski met Stanisław Wojciechowski. The bridge was for the second time destroyed by the German troops during the Warsaw Uprising in 1944. Poniatowski bridge was rebuilt after the war (in 1946), however in a poorer shape, without decorative balustrades and some benches.

Stamp Issue: 2008-08-29
number 4223-4226
http://www.poczta-polska.pl/znaczki/en/index.php

Capital Cities of EU States

2008-11-10T16:46:00.007+01:00

The series "Capital Cities of EU States" continues since 2005 on. As yet the following cities have been presented on its stamps: Budapest, Berlin, Dublin, Lisbon, Paris, Rome, Stockholm, Tallinn, Valletta and Vilnius.
London - Tower Bridge
History of London stems from the epoch of Roman Empire. Since the 11th century it is the capital city of England, and also the biggest city and harbour in the country. Great Britain belongs to the European Community since 1973, and therefore it is the EU Member State since its origins.Tower Bridge, one of the best recognizable symbols of London, is built of steel and its style is neo-Gothic. Its lower part is a drawbridge, allowing passage of the really big ships, while in its upper part the foot bridge is situated. Tower Bridge was built in the end of the 19th century as the second London bridge on River Thames. In the Victorian age it has been an example of the modern industrial construction.

Ljubljana - the Dragon's Bridge
History of Slovenia is much complicated, as the Balkan region was troubled with innumerable wars for ages. The striving of Slovenians to independence has revived during the Napoleon's epoch, and could manifest again only after the fall of the Josip Broz Tito's communist regime. Slovenia has separated from Yougoslavia in 1991, in 1992 it became the member of UN, and in 2004 it has joined the EU.The capital's name Lublana means "beloved". It is situated on the river Ljubljanica, over which there are a few beautiful bridges. One of them, the famous "Dragon's Bridge" (Zmajski Most), can be seen on the stamp. It was built about 1900 according to the design of Jurij Zaninović in Secession style, basically of the reinforced concrete.

Stamp Issue: 2007-10-24
number 4184, 4188

Poles in the world

2008-11-09T21:01:00.018+01:00

The Polish Post has just introduced two stamps devoted to Poles who lived and worked abroad, and did extraordinary things. They left a permanent image, making the name of Poland famous.

Ernest Malinowski, whose 100th anniversary of death will be celebrated on March 3rd this year, is the constructor of the famous Central Trans-Andean Railway in Peru. It is called a marvel of the engineering art of the 19th century. It is 218 km long (from Callao to Oroya) and most of it is located over 2000m over the sea level. It riches its highest peak in Ticlio: 4818m over the sea level, and this is why it is a railway located at the highest point in the world. A special sign placed there is presented on the FDC envelope accompanying the stamp. The stamp itself represents a portrait of Ernest Malinowski and a bridge over Verrugas canyon, belonging to the biggest constructions of this type in the world - it is 175m long and its height is 77 m.

Rudolf Modrzejewski, known in the United States as Ralph Modjeski, son of the famous actress, Helena, also became famous as a constructor of bridges. His most famous constructions include the Benjamin Franklin Bridge on the Delaware river in Philadelphia, which is presented in the second stamp. It was erected in 1926 and it had a record-breaking suspended span and elastic steel pylons 110m high. His work during the construction of the Trans-Bay bridge in San Francisco and in Quebec was also evaluated very positively.
Stamp Issue: 1999-02-12
number 3598, 3599
http://www.poczta-polska.pl/znaczki/en/polacy.php