On a closer look at the heraldic symbols of cities and regions of Russia, one tendency can be noted. In most cases they are similar, have the same symbols and colors. For example, the coat of arms of Kirov and the coat of arms of the region have minor differences regarding the location of the main elements on the shield.
Excursion into the history of Vyatka
Until 1934, Kirov was called Vyatka, at the heart of the modern symbol is the historical coat of arms, which in May 1781 was granted to the city by the great empress Catherine. But this heraldic sign is also based on earlier artifacts.
Scientists claim that the elements depicted on the coat of arms were borrowed from the Vyatka seal, which dates back to the 16th century. The same drawing was present on the banner of the Vyatka Dragoon Regiment. This heraldic symbol was used by the city authorities until 1917, then there was a long break due to a change in the political situation, the establishment of Soviet power.
In 2008, by the decision of the Kirov City Duma, the historical coat of arms was restored. In addition to the official approval by local authorities, he passed the necessary registration procedure, today it is entered in the State Heraldic Register.
Description of the coat of arms of Kirov
From the point of view of compositional construction, everything here is quite simple and concise. The main official symbol of Kirov consists of two important elements: the actual shield of the traditional French form for Russian cities; crowning the composition of the tower crown, complemented by a laurel wreath.
One of the most popular and beautiful colors, gold, has been chosen to paint the field of the shield. This shiny background depicts a right hand (right hand) emerging from an azure cloud. An invisible warrior's hand grips a bow with an arrow tucked in it. The bowstring is taut, that is, the weapon is on alert.
A bow with an arrow, in the opinion of many heraldry scholars, is one of the most ancient Russian heraldic symbols. This element has a deep symbolic meaning, it demonstrates the readiness of the residents of Kirov to defend the borders of the city.
The tower crown, which crowns the shield on the coat of arms, indicates the status of Kirov as a regional center. The golden laurel wreath, as in ancient Greece, is associated with victory. It is allowed to use both variants of the coat of arms, with or without the headdress of the monarch.
