Coat of arms of Basque Country (autonomous community)

Escudo del Pais Vasco

Coat of arms of the Basque Country (autonomous community) is the official heraldic symbol representing the Basque Country, an autonomous community in northern Spain. The coat of arms, also known as the Arms of Euskadi or Euskal Herriko Armarria in Basque, encapsulates the historical and cultural heritage of the Basque people.

Description

The coat of arms consists of a shield divided into four quarters, each representing historical territories of the Basque Country. The quarters are arranged as follows:

• The first quarter, on the top left, displays the arms of Álava, which feature a silver tower on a red field. The tower is flanked by two golden cauldrons, each with two sable (black) serpent heads emerging from the top.
• The second quarter, on the top right, shows the arms of Biscay, a red field with a silver bridge and a church beneath, representing the Church of San Antón, and a wolf passing through the bridge, symbolizing loyalty and vigilance.
• The third quarter, on the bottom left, contains the arms of Gipuzkoa, which depict a silver cross potent, a heraldic cross with each arm ending in a crossbar, on a green field. This symbolizes the Christian faith and the defense of the territory.
• The fourth quarter, on the bottom right, features the chains of Navarre, a gold field with chains linked together in a hexagonal pattern, surrounding an emerald. This emblem commemorates the victory of the Navarrese King Sancho VII at the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212.

Above the shield, there is a crest consisting of the Lauburu, a traditional Basque symbol resembling a swastika, which stands for prosperity and the continuous cycle of life. The shield is usually depicted without supporters or a motto, emphasizing the simplicity and unity of the Basque people.

Symbolism

The coat of arms of the Basque Country embodies the unity and identity of the Basque people, while also respecting the individuality of its historical territories. Each quarter of the shield represents one of the Basque provinces, highlighting their unique contributions to the region's heritage. The Lauburu as a crest symbolizes the ancient culture and enduring spirit of the Basque people.

Legal status and usage

The coat of arms was officially adopted by the Basque Government following the establishment of the autonomous community in the late 20th century. It is used in official documents, public buildings, and events representing the Basque Country. The emblem serves not only as a symbol of the government and its authority but also as a representation of the Basque people's pride and collective identity.

See also

• Basque Country
• Heraldry
• Lauburu
• Álava
• Biscay
• Gipuzkoa
• Navarre