2026EUROMED – Traditional Mosaics of the Mediterranean (C) - First Day Cover

Mosaics have a Mediterranean tradition dating back almost three thousand years. Created as a more durable alternative to painting, they adorned the floors, walls and public buildings of ancient Greece and the Roman Empire. During the Byzantine period, they gained a new dimension with the use of glass and gold leaf. Islamic art developed complex geometric and vegetal motifs, while mosaics regained popularity in Renaissance Italy by connecting the ancient tradition with new artistic ideals. The characteristic colors of Mediterranean mosaics were inspired by the region’s natural landscape and are still frequently used in contemporary interior design.