Coat of arms of Orkney

Coat of arms of Orkney

Coat of arms of Orkney is the heraldic symbol representing Orkney, an archipelago located to the north of mainland Scotland. The coat of arms, granted by the Lord Lyon King of Arms, symbolizes Orkney's history, culture, and its Norse heritage.

Description

The coat of arms features a shield emblazoned with a blue background, representing the surrounding sea. At the center, a gold Viking longship sails, symbolizing Orkney's rich Norse history and its strategic maritime position. Above the shield, a helmet with a mantling of blue and gold is present, topped with a crest featuring a rampant lion, which is a common symbol in Scottish heraldry, indicating strength and bravery.

Blazon

The formal blazon, or heraldic description, of the Orkney coat of arms is: "Azure, a drakkar Or sailed Argent under full sail on a sea in base proper, a chief wavy Argent." This describes the blue background, the golden Viking ship with silver sails, and the wavy silver chief at the top of the shield, which may represent the waves of the sea surrounding Orkney.

History

The coat of arms was officially granted to the Orkney Islands Council on February 10, 1956. The design reflects the islands' Viking heritage, which dates back to the 8th century when Norsemen from Norway first arrived and eventually annexed the islands. The Orkney Islands were under Norwegian and later Danish control until 1472, when they were annexed by Scotland as part of the dowry for Margaret of Denmark's marriage to James III of Scotland.

Symbolism

Each element of the coat of arms holds significant meaning: - The Viking longship symbolizes Orkney's historical and cultural ties to Scandinavia. - The blue background represents the sea, crucial to Orkney's geography, history, and economy. - The rampant lion on the crest ties Orkney to Scotland, reflecting its status as part of the Scottish realm since the 15th century. - The wavy silver chief suggests the dynamic and ever-present relationship between the islands and the sea.

Use and Display

The coat of arms is used by the Orkney Islands Council as a means of identification and authority. It appears on official documents, signage, and various council properties. The emblem serves not only as a symbol of the council's authority but also as a reminder of Orkney's unique identity and heritage.

See Also

• Heraldry
• Orkney
• Viking Age
• Scotland