The Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico is a symbol of the island’s rich history and culture. It was officially adopted in 1976, but its origins can be traced back to the 16th century when Puerto Rico was a Spanish colony.
The Coat of Arms features a shield divided into three sections. The top section depicts a castle, which represents the island’s Spanish heritage. The middle section shows a green band with three golden towers, which represents the three historic regions of Puerto Rico: San Juan, Ponce, and Aguadilla. The bottom section features a blue band with a white wave, which represents the island’s connection to the sea.
Above the shield is a golden crown, which represents Puerto Rico’s status as a commonwealth of the United States. On either side of the shield are two flags: the Puerto Rican flag and the American flag.
The Coat of Arms also includes a motto: “Joannes Est Nomen Eius,” which means “John is his name.” This refers to Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of Puerto Rico.
Overall, the Coat of Arms of Puerto Rico is a powerful symbol of the island’s history, culture, and connection to the United States. It represents the island’s Spanish heritage, its three historic regions, and its connection to the sea. It also acknowledges Puerto Rico’s status as a commonwealth of the United States while maintaining its unique identity and culture.