Coat of arms of Madrid

Coat of Arms of Madrid City

Coat of arms of Madrid is the official heraldic symbol representing the city of Madrid, the capital of Spain. The coat of arms features a range of elements that symbolize the city's history, culture, and patron saints. It is used by the city council and appears on official documents, flags, and various municipal properties.

Description

The coat of arms of Madrid consists of a shield that is divided into two primary sections. The upper section, or chief, displays a black bear standing on its hind legs, leaning against a strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo). The lower section features seven silver stars on a blue field. The bear and the strawberry tree are set against a silver (white) background, while the stars are arranged in two rows, four above and three below.

The bear and the strawberry tree (madroño in Spanish) have a long association with Madrid and its surrounding region, symbolizing the fertile land and forests that were once abundant in the area. The seven stars are said to represent the Big Dipper constellation, pointing to the city's geographical location and possibly its historical connection to shepherding and livestock.

The shield is traditionally topped with a royal crown, reflecting Madrid's status as the royal capital since the 16th century. The crown used in the coat of arms is the Spanish royal crown, indicating the close ties between the city and the Spanish monarchy.

Historical Background

The origins of Madrid's coat of arms are not precisely documented, but it is believed to have evolved over several centuries. The bear and the strawberry tree motif is known to have been associated with the city since at least the 13th century. Initially, the bear was depicted in a more passive posture, without the tree, and over time, the current design with the bear standing against the strawberry tree was adopted.

The addition of the stars to the coat of arms is a more recent modification, believed to have been introduced in the 20th century to differentiate the city's emblem from similar heraldic symbols used by other entities in the region.

Usage

The coat of arms of Madrid is used extensively by the Madrid City Council and appears on various municipal assets, including buildings, official stationery, and the city's flag. The emblem symbolizes the authority of the city's government and is a prominent feature in official ceremonies and public events.

Legal Protection

The design and use of the coat of arms are protected by law, and any unauthorized use or modification is subject to legal penalties. The city council oversees the application and enforcement of these regulations to ensure the coat of arms is used appropriately and maintains its significance as a symbol of Madrid.

See Also

• Heraldry
• Flag of Madrid
• Symbols of Madrid