Coat of arms of Greece facts for kids

The national coat of arms of Greece.

The coat of arms of Greece is a special symbol for the country. It features a white cross on a blue shield. Two laurel branches surround the shield. This design represents Greece's history and values.

What is a Coat of Arms?

A coat of arms is like a unique badge or emblem for a country, family, or organization. It often shows symbols that are important to them. These symbols can tell a story about their history, beliefs, or strengths. Coats of arms have been used for hundreds of years. They help people recognize and identify different groups.

Symbols of Greece

The Greek coat of arms uses specific colors and shapes. Each part has a special meaning. These symbols are chosen to represent the nation's spirit.

The Blue and White Shield

The main part of the coat of arms is a shield. It is colored blue and white. These are the national colors of Greece. The blue often stands for the sky and the sea around Greece. The white can represent the purity of the Greek struggle for freedom. These colors are also found on the Greek flag.

The Cross

On the blue and white shield, there is a white cross. This cross is a strong symbol of Christianity. Most people in Greece are Orthodox Christians. The cross shows the deep religious faith of the Greek people. It also connects to the country's long history.

The Laurel Branches

Around the shield, you will see two branches of laurel. Laurel branches have been important symbols in Greece for a very long time. In ancient Greece, laurel wreaths were given to winners. They were a sign of victory and honor. Today, the laurel branches on the coat of arms still represent glory, honor, and peace. They remind us of Greece's rich ancient past.

A Look Back: History of the Coat of Arms

The design of Greece's coat of arms has changed a few times over the years. When Greece became an independent country in the 1820s, it needed its own symbols. The first designs often included symbols like the goddess Athena or an owl. These were linked to ancient Greek wisdom.

Later, the cross and shield became more common. This happened as Greece developed its modern identity. The current design with the blue shield, white cross, and laurel branches was officially adopted in 1975. It was chosen after a period of political change. This design is simple yet powerful. It clearly represents the nation.

Where You See It Today

You can see the Greek coat of arms in many places. It is used by the Greek government. You will find it on official documents, passports, and government buildings. It also appears on the uniforms of the armed forces. Sometimes, it is even used on coins. The coat of arms helps to show that something is officially from Greece. It is a proud symbol for all Greeks.

Images for kids

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  A Greek coat of arms with coloured laurel branches, used at an embassy.

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  Common but unofficial rendering in proper tincture.

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  Greater coats of arms without supporters, on a 20-drachma coin (1884)

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  Minor version of the coat of arms with crown and laurel wreath on a 20-drachma coin (1833)

See also

In Spanish: Escudo de Grecia para niños