Coat of arms of The Hague

Den Haag wapen

The Coat of Arms of The Hague represents the official heraldic emblem of The Hague, a prominent city and the administrative capital of the Netherlands. This coat of arms holds significant historical value and is a symbol of the city's authority and identity.

Description

The coat of arms of The Hague features a stork holding a black eel in its beak, set against a green field. This imagery is deeply rooted in the city's history and folklore. The stork, often associated with delivering babies, is a symbol of vigilance and purity, while the eel represents the fishing industry, which was one of the early sources of livelihood for the inhabitants of The Hague.

Blazon

The official blazon, or heraldic description, of The Hague's coat of arms is as follows: Vert, a stork argent, beaked and membered gules, holding in its beak an eel sable. This heraldic language describes a green (vert) shield with a silver (argent) stork that has red (gules) beak and legs, holding a black (sable) eel in its beak.

History

The use of the stork in The Hague's coat of arms dates back to the medieval period. The symbol was first recorded in the 16th century, but it is believed to have been in use for several centuries prior. The stork was a common sight in the marshy lands around The Hague, which contributed to its selection as a symbol for the city. Over the years, the design of the coat of arms has remained relatively unchanged, signifying the enduring nature of The Hague's identity.

Usage

The coat of arms is used by the city council and appears on official documents, municipal properties, and public monuments. It serves as a visual representation of The Hague in various capacities, including diplomatic and ceremonial occasions. The emblem is also incorporated into the logos and branding of some city services and events, underlining its significance as a symbol of civic pride and heritage.

Legal Protection

The coat of arms is protected under Dutch law, which regulates the use of municipal coats of arms to prevent unauthorized or inappropriate use. This ensures that the emblem remains a respected symbol of The Hague and its values.

See Also

• Heraldry
• Coat of arms of the Netherlands
• List of cities in the Netherlands