The Vatican City has issued a special stamp marking the 600th anniversary of the founding of Leuven University, a Roman Catholic institution. The stamp features an image of Pope Martin V, who recognised the university in 1425.
The former rector of Leuven University, Marc Vervenne, is in Rome where the special stamp is being presented. ‘The stamp refers to the history of the university: the Roman Catholic ecclesiastical authorities recognise the historic university’s two wings, Flemish KU Leuven and Francophone UCLouvain.’
‘The image on the stamp features the seals of the two universities and an image of Pope Martin V, who on 9 December 1425 issued a document recognising the newly founded University of Leuven. Due to the omnipresence of the Church at that time, it was customary for the Pope to grant recognition.’
The stamp cannot be used in Belgium. The stamp is only valid in the Vatican City. 'For collectors it will be a sought-after item,' says Vervenne.