Italy

Duke of the Abruzzi

Honouring the Duke of the Abruzzi: A Tribute on Somali Stamps (1934)

The 1934 Somali stamps overprinted with “ONORANZE AL DUCA DEGLI ABRUZZI” commemorate Prince Luigi Amedeo, the Duke of the Abruzzi, an extraordinary Italian figure celebrated for his contributions as an explorer, mountaineer, and visionary leader. This issue used stamps originally released in 1932, some with altered colours, to pay tribute to the Duke’s legacy in […]

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Michelangelo

Italy’s 1961 Tribute to Michelangelo: Sistine Chapel Frescoes on Stamps

In 1961, Poste Italiane released a stunning definitive stamp series celebrating the timeless artistry of Michelangelo. The stamps depict various characters from Michelangelo’s renowned frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, one of the most significant masterpieces of Renaissance art. The Sistine Chapel: A Historical Overview The Sistine Chapel, located in Vatican City, was

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Italy 1932 – Dante Alighieri Society Stamp Issue

In 1932, Italy released a series of postage and air mail stamps celebrating the Dante Alighieri Society, a prominent institution dedicated to promoting Italian language and culture globally. The set, catalogued as SG Nos. 314-325 (Postage) and 326-332 (Air), features some of Italy’s greatest historical figures, including poets, philosophers, and writers, alongside iconic works by

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Italo-Turkish War

Benghazi and the Italo-Turkish War: The Dawn of Modern Warfare

On October 20, 1911, Italian forces occupied Benghazi during the Italo-Turkish War, marking the beginning of Italian Libya. This conflict between the Kingdom of Italy and the Ottoman Empire was a relatively short but impactful war that reshaped the political and technological landscape of the 20th century. A Strategic Conflict The Italo-Turkish War, fought from

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ESTERO

1881 – 83 The Italian Overprint: “ESTERO” on the 2 Lire Orange-Red

The Italian Post Offices in the Ottoman Empire hold a fascinating place in philatelic history. Among their intriguing issues is the striking 2 lire orange-red stamp from the 1881–83 General Issue, distinguished by the bold “ESTERO” overprint. However, this particular denomination remains unique as it was prepared but never issued, making it a noteworthy curiosity

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Italy 1931 – Transatlantic Mass Formation Flight Stamp

Have you ever heard of a stamp that’s more than just a piece of paper? The Transatlantic Mass Formation Flight Stamp is a perfect example—a symbol of bravery, innovation, and history. This stamp doesn’t just tell a story; it connects us to a thrilling chapter in aviation’s golden age. Italo Balbo (1896–1940), a pioneering Italian

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Italy – The First Airmail Stamp Issued by Any Country

On June 27, 1917, Italy made postal history by issuing the world’s first airmail stamp. This was a special delivery stamp overprinted with three lines to commemorate an experimental flight between Rome and Turin. The 25-centesimi special delivery stamp featured the image of King Victor Emmanuel III on the left and the word “EXPRESSO” on

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