In 1965, Qatar joined the international effort to raise awareness about the preservation of Nubian monuments, a monumental task spearheaded by UNESCO to save endangered ancient Egyptian temples and landmarks from submersion caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. To commemorate this significant campaign, Qatar issued a beautiful series of stamps on January 17, 1965. This issue remains a striking example of how philately can capture and promote cultural and historical preservation efforts.
Historical Context
The Nubian monuments, including the Great Temple of Isis at Philae and other historical landmarks, faced an existential threat due to the rising waters of Lake Nasser, formed as a result of the Aswan High Dam. UNESCO launched an unprecedented international campaign to save these monuments, calling on nations worldwide to contribute resources and raise awareness for their preservation. The campaign successfully relocated several temples, including Abu Simbel and Philae, safeguarding them for future generations.
Qatar’s issuance of these stamps demonstrated its support for this global initiative, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in preserving humanity’s shared cultural heritage. The designs on these stamps showcase iconic elements of Nubian architecture and art, emphasizing their historical and aesthetic value.
Design Details
The set features three distinct designs, each celebrating an architectural marvel from the Nubian monuments:
- 2 Naye Paise (NP) Multicolored
- Depicts a column with an open papyrus capital, adorned with religious reliefs and hieroglyphs from the Great Temple of Isis, representing the 30th Dynasty and the Ptolemaic Era.
- 3 NP Multicolored
- Shows the columns and the right wing of the entrance pylon with the inner yard of the Great Temple of Isis.
- 5 NP Multicolored
- Features Trajan’s Kiosk as seen from the southeast, showcasing five unfinished Hathor columns from the Roman Period.
These vivid illustrations on the stamps not only capture the architectural beauty of the Nubian monuments but also symbolize the global responsibility to protect such treasures.
Stamp Denominations and Face Values
| Value | Description | Mi No. |
|---|---|---|
| 2 NP | Column with open papyrus capital, Great Temple of Isis | 48 |
| 3 NP | Columns and right wing of entrance pylon, Great Temple of Isis | 49 |
| 5 NP | Trajan’s Kiosk from the southeast, with 5 unfinished Hathor columns | 50 |
| 1.50 R | Multicolored | 51 |
| 2 R | Multicolored | 52 |
Legacy of the Issue
This stamp series underscores Qatar’s engagement in global cultural initiatives during the mid-20th century. By highlighting the preservation of Nubian monuments, these stamps served not only as functional postage but also as a medium to educate and inspire people worldwide about the importance of safeguarding our shared heritage. The Nubian preservation campaign remains a landmark example of international collaboration, and these stamps are a testament to Qatar’s role in supporting this cause.
Closing Thoughts
For philatelists and history enthusiasts alike, the 1965 UNESCO campaign stamps from Qatar offer a window into a pivotal moment in cultural preservation history. They are not just collectible items, but also enduring reminders of the collective efforts made to save humanity’s irreplaceable treasures. Whether admired for their design or their historical significance, these stamps continue to tell a story of unity and preservation that resonates to this day.