Coat of arms of the Prince of Spain

Coat of Arms of Juan Carlos of Spain as Prince

Coat of Arms of the Prince of Spain represents the heraldic symbol attributed to the heir apparent to the Spanish throne. The current design reflects centuries of tradition, combining elements that signify the prince's role and heritage. This coat of arms is a variant of the Spanish Royal Family's emblem, tailored to highlight the prince's position as the future monarch.

Design and Symbolism

The Coat of Arms of the Prince of Spain is rich in symbolism, incorporating elements from the Coat of arms of Spain with specific modifications that denote the heir's status. The shield is quartered, displaying the arms of the historical kingdoms that make up Spain: Castile, León, Aragon, and Navarre, along with Granada. Over all these, in point of honor, is a smaller shield representing the House of Bourbon-Anjou, the reigning dynasty of Spain.

The shield is surmounted by a crown, which is different from the king's crown. The crown of the Prince of Spain is a heraldic representation of the Crown Prince's rank, being a princely crown adorned with jewels and featuring a distinctive design that sets it apart from the monarch's crown.

Differences from the Royal Coat of Arms

While the Royal Coat of Arms of Spain features the Pillars of Hercules with the motto "Plus Ultra," symbolizing Spain's imperial history and endeavors beyond the European continent, the Prince's coat of arms typically omits these elements. This distinction underscores the prince's role as heir rather than sovereign.

Historical Evolution

The Coat of Arms of the Prince of Spain has evolved over time, reflecting changes in the political and dynastic landscape of the country. Each heir to the throne has borne a version of the coat of arms that aligns with the heraldic traditions of their era, while also incorporating personal symbols or modifications.

Usage

The Coat of Arms of the Prince of Spain is used in various contexts to denote the presence or property of the heir to the throne. It appears on personal items, official documents, and during ceremonial occasions. The emblem serves as a visual representation of the prince's identity and his responsibilities as the future monarch.

See Also

• Spanish Royal Family
• Coat of arms of Spain
• Heraldry
• Monarchy of Spain