Coat of arms of Puerto Rico

Coat of arms of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico

Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico

The Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico represents and symbolizes the Island of Puerto Rico and its people. The origins of the current coat of arms date back to 1511, when the Spanish Crown granted the island its first coat of arms. However, the current version was officially adopted by the government of Puerto Rico on June 3, 1976, through a law signed by then-Governor Rafael Hernández Colón. The coat of arms has a deep historical background and is loaded with symbols that reflect the island's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Description

The coat of arms is a heraldic symbol that consists of a shield, a crown, and a banner. The shield is divided into three parts, each with its own set of symbols. In the upper left section, a green background features a golden lamb holding a silver flag with a red cross, symbolizing Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Puerto Rico. The upper right section displays a castle on a gold field, representing the Kingdom of Castile, and the lower section shows a rampant lion on a silver field, symbolizing the Kingdom of León. These elements reflect Puerto Rico's history as a Spanish colony.

Surrounding the shield are four crosses of Jerusalem, symbolizing the spread of Christianity. The shield is topped with a three-towered castle wall, which represents the Crown of Castile and the fortified city of San Juan. Above the castle wall sits a blue ribbon with the motto "JOANNES EST NOMEN EJUS" (John is his name), a reference to Saint John the Baptist.

Symbolism

The coat of arms of Puerto Rico is rich in symbolism. The lamb with the flag represents the religious freedom and Christian heritage of the island. The castle and lion symbolize the Spanish Crown and the courage of the Puerto Rican people. The crosses of Jerusalem highlight the island's Christianization. The three towers symbolize the three branches of the Puerto Rican government, while the walls represent the fortifications of San Juan, emphasizing Puerto Rico's strategic importance in the Caribbean.

Legal Status and Use

The coat of arms is used by the government of Puerto Rico to authenticate certain documents. Its use is regulated by law, and it is a symbol of pride and cultural identity for Puerto Ricans. The coat of arms appears on the flag of the Governor of Puerto Rico and is used by various government agencies and institutions.

Controversies and Changes

Over the years, there have been minor controversies regarding the use and modification of the coat of arms. However, any changes have been made with respect to its historical significance and the legal framework governing its use.

Conclusion

The coat of arms of Puerto Rico is a symbol of the island's rich history, culture, and heritage. It reflects the legacy of the Spanish era, the Christianization of the island, and the pride of the Puerto Rican people. As a heraldic symbol, it continues to represent the identity and the governmental authority of Puerto Rico.