MaltaPost will issue a set of 4 stamps depicting scenes from the live crib in Gozo - Bethlehem f'Għajnsielem, a yearly production staged by the inhabitants of Ghajnsielem in Gozo.

The pageant seeks to replicate, in a live manner, the atmosphere and environs of Bethlehem at the time when Jesus Christ was born over 2000 years ago. The event commences with the reenactments of Mary and Joseph's trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem and is concluded with the adoration of the Magi on the Epiphany.

The stamps carry a face value of €0.26, €0.59, €0.63 and €1.16. The €0.26 stamp draws focus on the traditional Nativity scene, while the €0.59 stamp gives prominence to the Magi as they visit the Holy Family. The €0.63 stamp features shepherds close to a fire with the Għajnsielem church in the background and the €1.16 stamp portrays the Holy Family in the stable. Photographer Daniel Cilia shot the photos featured on the stamps.

The stamps have been set by MaltaPost and will be issued in sheets of 10 stamps. Each stamp measures 44mm x 31mm with a perforation of 14.1 x 14.2 (comb.), while the sheets measure 119mm x 186mm. The Malta stamps bear the Maltese Crosses watermark. Printex Limited produced the set in offset and the issue consists of 1,300,000 of the €0.26, 260,000 of the €0.59, 80,000 of the €0.63 and 28,000 of the €1.16.

This Philatelic Issue will be available for sale from Monday 17 November 2014 from all Post Offices in Malta and Gozo, online at www.maltaphilately.com or by mail from the Philatelic Bureau, MaltaPost p.l.c. 305, Qormi Road, Marsa, MTP 1001; Telephone: 2596 1740, e-mail: info@maltaphilately.com.

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