Saint Helena

Here comes one of the dearest postcards ever in my collection. It's from Saint Helena, an island of volcanic origin in the South Atlantic Ocean. Saint Helena measures about 16 by 8 kilometres and has a population of 4,255. The island was uninhabited when discovered by the Portuguese in 1502. It is one of the most isolated islands in the world. For centuries, it was an important stopover for ships sailing to Europe from Asia and South Africa. The British also used the island as a place of exile, most notably for Napoleon I, Dinuzuli kaCetshwayo and more than 5000 Boer prisoners. Saint Helena is Britan's second oldest remaining colony, after Bermuda. 

This postcard shows Longwood  House. It was the residence of Napoleon Bonapare, during his exile on Saint Helena (1815-1821). It lies on a windswept plain some 6 km from Jamestown. Formerly the summer residence of the Lieutenant Governor, it was converted for the use of Napoleon. Longwood House is now a museum owned by the French government.

This gem arrived from dear Camilla, who lives on the island of St Helena. Thank you so much dear, you definitely made my day! :)