The western neighbor of Great Britain has fought for its independence for too long, which is why it can be proud that the symbol on its main emblem has ancient roots. The modern coat of arms of Ireland was approved in November 1945, but the golden harp, which occupies the central place, has been used by the Irish for centuries in official documents and heraldry.
Free Ireland symbol
Many connoisseurs of painting assess the coat of arms of Ireland as a masterpiece of artistic thought, so the depth of design and simplicity of implementation are so striking. Three colors were chosen for the main symbol of the country:
- gold for the image of the harp;
- the silver with which the strings are painted;
- azure is a deep blue for the field.
Each of these colors is loved by the monarchs of all countries and continents, on the coats of arms of many modern states of the world you can see one or another tone, or their combination.
Musical symbol of the country
The choice of the harp, which seems to be an ordinary musical instrument, is explained by deep traditions and one of the most ancient Irish legends. In addition, having chosen it as the main state emblem, Ireland thus stood out among all the countries of the planet. Not a single musical instrument - not a single coat of arms.
The first harp was a gift from the gods to Dagda, the earthly ruler of Ireland, after which it was kidnapped by evil deities, but found and returned to the owner by representatives of light and sun. It has been known as a symbol of Ireland since the 13th century. The harp's mission is not only beautiful music that inspires heroic deeds for the sake of the country, its significance for every Irishman is much greater.
Firstly, she was the head of the Irish orchestra. It is not without reason that archaeologists still find tools or their fragments during excavations, the most ancient of which are 500-600 years old.
Secondly, the famous monarchs John and Edward I decorated Irish coins with a harp. Already in 1541, after the formation of the Kingdom of Ireland under the leadership of Henry I of Ireland, it became the symbol of the country and also appeared on the local currency.
After the unification of the three states - England, Scotland and Ireland - the harp took its rightful place on one of the fields of the shield of the United Kingdom, and from there it went to roam according to other coats of arms derived from the main symbol of the country.
The modern independent Ireland remains faithful to traditions and the coat of arms, the image of which can be seen on official documents, seals, coins and banknotes. It is also used by the president and government of the country.
