The national coat of arms of Lithuania is a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and identity. It features a white knight on a red field, holding a sword in his right hand and a shield in his left. The shield is divided into two parts: the top half is blue with a golden double cross, while the bottom half is red with a silver Vytis, a symbol of the country’s historical past.
The colors of the coat of arms are significant. Red represents courage, bravery, and the blood of Lithuanian warriors who fought for their country’s independence. White symbolizes purity, honesty, and the snow that covers the country during the winter months. Blue represents the sky and the country’s aspirations for freedom and independence. Gold and silver represent wealth and prosperity.
The history of the Lithuanian coat of arms dates back to the 13th century when the Grand Duchy of Lithuania was established. The first known coat of arms was a shield with a white knight on a red field, which was used by the Grand Duke of Lithuania, Mindaugas. Over time, the coat of arms evolved, and different versions were used by various Lithuanian rulers.
In the 15th century, the coat of arms was standardized, and the Vytis was added to the shield. The Vytis is a symbol of a mounted knight, which represents the country’s military strength and readiness to defend its people. The double cross was added to the top half of the shield in the 16th century, symbolizing the country’s Christian faith.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Lithuania was occupied by various foreign powers, including Russia, Germany, and the Soviet Union. During this time, the Lithuanian coat of arms was banned, and the country was forced to use different symbols. However, after Lithuania regained its independence in 1990, the coat of arms was restored as a symbol of the country’s sovereignty and identity.
Today, the Lithuanian coat of arms is used on various official documents, including passports, currency, and government buildings. It is also used by various Lithuanian organizations and sports teams as a symbol of national pride.
In conclusion, the Lithuanian coat of arms is a symbol of the country’s sovereignty, identity, and historical past. It features a white knight on a red field, holding a sword and shield, with a blue and gold double cross and a red and silver Vytis on the shield. The colors of the coat of arms represent courage, purity, and aspirations for freedom and prosperity. The history of the coat of arms dates back to the 13th century, and it has evolved over time to become a symbol of national pride and identity.