Christmas 2010 – Ireland

An Post issued two commemorative stamps depicting the Annunciation and the Nativity.

The feast of the Annunciation marks the visit of the Angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary, during which he told her that she would be the mother of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. It is celebrated on 25 March each year, and occurs 9 months before the birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. The Nativity tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ and the journey of Joseph and Mary, as they travel from the city of Nazareth to Bethlehem. As there was no room for them at the Inn in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth in a manger, wrapped the Baby Jesus in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in straw.

The robin is a significant symbol of Christmas and there are many traditional and mythical fables of this little creature in the Bible. Robins are one of the most-loved song birds in Ireland. They are small, standing about 7cm high, with a distinctive red breast.

Title: Christmas 2010 – Ireland
Date of Issue: 4 November 2010
Country: Ireland
Denominations: 55c, 82c