Liechtenstein Post is one of the Postal Services that is the first have introduced this year’s EUROPA philatelic issue, the theme of which is "Ancient Postal Routes". These are two commemorative stamps "Stagecoach" and "Mounted Messenger" that are released as a combination print on a miniature sheet of two stamps twice. Designer René Wolfinger made the issue appear nostalgic through steel engraving.
Lindau Messenger was important ancient postal route in Liechtenstein. It transported goods, money, and letters. The service operated between the Bavarian town of Lindau on Lake Constance and Milan, Italy, also passing through Austria, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. The exact date when the Lindau Messenger started to operate is not documented. However, it is assumed that he was already travelling along the arduous route on a fairly regular basis towards the end of the 15th century. In good weather, he completed the journey in five-and-a-half days but in snow and ice the trip took quite a bit longer.
See also other Europa stamps.
