The coat of arms of Finland has been officially used as the main state symbol of the country only since 1978. Although it is clear at first glance that the symbols depicted on it have a much longer history. Their roots can be found in the Middle Ages, when a stylized lion appeared on the statue of Gustav I Vasa, one of the most famous Swedish monarchs. The statue was installed in the Gothic cathedral in Uppsala.
Battle of the beasts for the throne
An interesting fact regarding the image of a lion on the coat of arms of Finland: at a certain period of time, a real struggle broke out between the supporters of the lion and the bear over which animal should take the central place on the main symbol. Even among the ancient Scandinavians, the lion was considered a symbol of power, the personification of power. Although, according to the assurances of individual scientists, it was not a lion, but a lynx, which is more familiar. Part of the population entered into discussion, proposing to replace the image of an exotic lion with a stylized bear. After all, this animal acts as a symbol of northern Finland, is one of the most popular characters in Finnish folklore and folk culture.
There was a project for the Great Coat of Arms of Finland, in which there was a place for both a lion (lynx) and a bear. However, this project was never officially approved, the lion remained the winner in the struggle for a place on the state symbol of the country.
Power and might
The coat of arms of Russia's northern neighbor clearly testifies to Finland's desire for independence, the creation of a strong state that can withstand any enemy. The lion is the main character on the state emblem of the country. Each of its details is special, each element plays a role. The design uses noble colors and shades:
- scarlet shield field;
- Golden Lion;
- the saber and sword are silver, their hilts are gold;
- nine silver rosettes decorating the field.
The lion is turned in profile, in his right paw a sword raised high up. The left animal holds the saber. He seems to be standing on it, symbolically trampling on it - this is a kind of allusion to the victory of Christians over Muslims. The shield is topped with a crown similar to those used by the German princes.
When Finland was part of the Russian Empire, this shield was placed against the background of the two-headed Russian eagle. At the same time, a detail was invented, which received the name of the Finnish crown. The Finns did not accept this crown. And only in 1886 the coat of arms of Finland appeared, which can still be seen on the official documents of the citizens of this country.
