The Small European Postal Administrations Cooperation (SEPAC), of which Malta is a member, brings together thirteen European postal operators. Each year, participating members issue stamps based on a common theme. For 2026, the selected theme is "Iconic Landmarks", celebrating places of outstanding cultural, historical and architectural significance across Europe.
To mark this joint issue, MaltaPost is releasing a set of two stamps showcasing two distinctive landmarks that reflect the rich heritage of the Maltese Islands.
The 0.50 stamp depicts the Xwejni Salt Pans in Gozo, which stretch for approximately three kilometres along the Island's rugged northern coastline between Qbajjar Bay and Reqqa Point. Hand-hewn over centuries into the coastal limestone, these geometric salt pans preserve the age-old tradition of harvesting sea salt using just the natural elements of sun and wind. Renowned for their striking patterns and spectacular coastal setting, the Xwejni Salt Pans are a testament to Gozo's maritime heritage and the craftsmanship of generations of local salt producers. Completing the composition is Il-Qolla l-Bajda, the iconic white clay hillock with its rounded silhouette providing a dramatic backdrop to one of Gozo's most picturesque coastal landscapes.
(Stamp photograph by Mariah Grech)
The 2.21 stamp, MaltaPost's official entry for the 2026 SEPAC joint issue competition, portrays the Tritons' Fountain, one of Malta's most recognisable landmarks and a striking symbol of the gateway to Valletta. Inaugurated in 1959, the fountain features three bronze Tritons supporting a wide basin - a major public monument.
The design captures the fountain within its historic Floriana setting, with the imposing church of St Publius dominating the skyline and the elegant dome of the Sarria church. Also featured is Antonio Sciortino's Christ the King Monument, erected to commemorate the 1913 International Eucharistic Congress held in Malta, adding further historical significance to this distinguished urban landscape.
(Stamp photograph by Daniel Cilia)
