Coat of arms of the Prince of Asturias

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Coat of Arms of Leonor, Princess of Asturias

The Coat of Arms of the Prince of Asturias represents the heraldic symbols associated with the heir apparent to the Spanish throne, traditionally held by the Prince of Asturias. The title "Prince of Asturias" is analogous to the Prince of Wales in the United Kingdom, denoting the monarch's eldest son or daughter. The current design of the coat of arms reflects centuries of Spanish heraldry, incorporating elements that signify the prince's status and heritage.

Design and Symbolism

The coat of arms of the Prince of Asturias is a modified version of the Coat of arms of Spain, tailored to highlight the heir's distinct position within the royal family. It features a quartered shield, each section representing significant territories within Spain, and is differentiated from the monarch's emblem by specific details that denote the heir's status.

Shield

The shield is quartered, displaying the traditional arms of the kingdoms that formed Spain:

• In the first and fourth quarters, the arms of Castile are shown, represented by a castle.
• The second quarter displays the lion of León, symbolizing the Kingdom of León.
• The third quarter bears the chains of Navarre, a symbol of the Kingdom of Navarre.
• Over all, at the center, is a smaller shield with the arms of the House of Bourbon-Anjou, the ruling dynasty of Spain, featuring three fleurs-de-lis on a blue field.

Differences from the Monarch's Arms

The Prince of Asturias's coat of arms includes several elements that distinguish it from the king's:

• A blue label of three points across the top of the shield, a heraldic device used to signify the eldest son in many European royal families.
• The absence of the crown of the reigning monarch, replaced with a coronet specific to the Prince of Asturias.

Supporters and Motto

Unlike the royal coat of arms, the Prince of Asturias's emblem does not typically feature supporters. The motto, if included, is often the same as the monarch's, "Plus Ultra," meaning "Further Beyond," which reflects Spain's historical endeavors and aspirations.

Historical Evolution

The coat of arms has evolved over time, with changes reflecting shifts in political and dynastic landscapes. The current design, incorporating the Bourbon-Anjou arms, has been in use since the 18th century, following the War of Spanish Succession and the establishment of the Bourbon dynasty in Spain.

Usage

The coat of arms is used in various contexts to denote the Prince of Asturias's presence or patronage. It appears on official documents, military insignia, and properties associated with the prince. Additionally, it serves as a personal symbol for the heir apparent, used in less formal settings to represent their identity and role within the royal family.

See Also

• Spanish Royal Family
• Heraldry
• Monarchy of Spain
• Titles and customs of the Spanish monarchy