Coat of arms of Bellingwedde

Bellingwedde wapen

Coat of arms of Bellingwedde

The Coat of arms of Bellingwedde represents the heraldic symbol for the former municipality of Bellingwedde, located in the province of Groningen, Netherlands. The coat of arms holds significant historical and cultural value, encapsulating the identity and heritage of the region until its dissolution in 2018, when Bellingwedde merged with Vlagtwedde to form the new municipality of Westerwolde.

Description

The coat of arms of Bellingwedde is described in heraldic terms as follows: "Azure, a fess argent, in chief a crown or between two stars of the same, in base a garb or." This translates to a blue shield with a horizontal silver stripe across the middle. Above the stripe, there is a golden crown flanked by two golden stars, and below it, a golden wheatsheaf (garb).

Symbolism

Each element of the coat of arms carries its own significance, reflective of Bellingwedde's history and geography:

• The blue field represents the abundant water in the area, including rivers and canals that have been crucial for transportation and agriculture.
• The silver fess (horizontal stripe) symbolizes the B.L. Tijdenskanaal, a significant canal that runs through the municipality, facilitating trade and agriculture.
• The golden crown is indicative of the royal privileges or freedoms historically granted to the region.
• The golden stars are symbolic of guidance and excellence, possibly reflecting the community's aspirations or its notable historical figures.
• The golden wheatsheaf underscores the importance of agriculture, particularly grain cultivation, to the local economy and way of life.

History

The coat of arms was officially granted to Bellingwedde on [Date], following the establishment of the municipality. It served as the emblem of Bellingwedde throughout its existence, until the municipality was merged into Westerwolde in 2018. The design reflects both the natural features and the socio-economic backbone of the region, encapsulating its essence in heraldic form.

Legacy

With the dissolution of Bellingwedde, the coat of arms ceased to represent a municipal entity. However, it remains a symbol of the area's heritage and identity, preserved in historical records, local traditions, and the collective memory of its people. It also continues to be of interest to heraldists, historians, and those with a connection to the region.