Coat of arms of Mauritius

Coat of arms of Mauritius is the national symbol of the Republic of Mauritius. The current version was officially adopted on 25 August 1906, following the country's status as a British colony. The coat of arms is a significant emblem that represents the island's history, culture, and natural attributes. It is used in official government documents and is a symbol of authority and identity for the nation.

Description

The coat of arms of Mauritius features several elements that highlight the country's unique features and historical background. The design consists of:

• Shield: The central element is a shield which has four quarters. The first and fourth quarters show a ship representing the European settlers' arrival. The second quarter features three palm trees, symbolizing the tropical environment of Mauritius. The third quarter displays a key, signifying the strategic importance of Mauritius as a gateway to the Indian Ocean.
• Supporters: On either side of the shield, there are two animals indigenous to the island: the dodo bird on the left and the sambar deer on the right. The dodo, now extinct, symbolizes the unique biodiversity of Mauritius, while the sambar deer represents the wildlife introduced to the island.
• Crest: Above the shield is a naval crown, which reflects Mauritius's maritime history and its significance as a naval power during the colonial period.
• Motto: Below the shield, the national motto of Mauritius, "Stella Clavisque Maris Indici" (Star and Key of the Indian Ocean), is inscribed on a scroll. This motto emphasizes Mauritius's strategic position and its role as a central point in maritime routes across the Indian Ocean.

Symbolism

Each element of the coat of arms carries deep symbolic meaning related to Mauritius's heritage and natural beauty. The ship symbolizes the arrival of settlers, including the Dutch, French, and British, who have shaped the island's history. The palm trees and the dodo bird highlight the island's rich biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts. The key signifies Mauritius's strategic importance in international trade and security in the Indian Ocean region.

Usage

The coat of arms is used by the government of Mauritius and appears on official documents, including passports and currency. It is also present in governmental buildings and institutions, serving as a symbol of authority and national pride.

History

The coat of arms of Mauritius has undergone several changes since its first introduction. The current version was adopted in 1906 when Mauritius was a British colony. Over the years, it has remained a constant symbol of the nation's identity, reflecting its history, culture, and aspirations.

See also

• Flag of Mauritius
• National symbols of Mauritius
• History of Mauritius