Coat of arms of Austria

Austria's provincial coats of arms are not only iconic symbols of the country, but also witnesses to a profound history. Each coat of arms tells its own story, conveys traditions and provides insights into the country's cultural, political and social developments . This guide takes you on a journey of discovery through the history and meaning of these coats of arms.

The diversity of Austria: The nine federal states with their unique coats of arms. ©Sven_Knie/stock.adobe.com

History of the coats of arms of the federal states: A look back to the Middle Ages

The origins of the coats of arms of the federal states date back to the Middle Ages . In their beginnings, they were mostly simple symbols that represented the power and influence of the sovereigns of the time. Many coats of arms feature animals such as lions, eagles or bears, which symbolize strength and power. Over time, the coats of arms of the federal states became increasingly complex and detailed. New symbols and motifs were added to them, reflecting the history and culture of the respective region. Many coats of arms also feature elements of the local flora and fauna, historical buildings or people.

Even in the Middle Ages, flags on castles and palaces symbolized power and rule. ©Jack/stock.adobe.com

Signs of progress: the development of coats of arms

The development of the coats of arms of the federal provinces was closely linked to the political and social changes in Austria. After the end of the monarchy in 1918, the coats of arms were modernized and adapted to the new political circumstances. In the period that followed, the coats of arms of the federal provinces were repeatedly changed and adapted. New elements were added or existing elements changed in order to adapt the coats of arms to current events and developments.

Salzburg coat of arms in the wind - pride and tradition in front of an alpine panorama.

austria's heritage: our provincial coat of arms

The coats of arms of the federal provinces are an important part of Austrian culture and identity today. They are a symbol of the diversity and unity of the country and shape the collective consciousness of the people. The coats of arms can be seen on flags, buildings and other public places and remind people of the history and traditions of their homeland. They are an important link between the past and the present and help to preserve the memory of Austria's history.

from chains to crowns: Federal coat of arms deciphered

The Austrian coat of arms features a majestic black eagle crowned by a golden mural crown with three battlements.

The Austrian coat of arms - an iconic symbol with great historical significance ©Maxi_2015/stock.adobe.com

This crown embodies the republic, its citizens and democracy in action. The eagle holds in its talons both a sickle, a symbol of the peasantry, and a hammer, representing the working class. These elements represent a further development of the heraldic representation that was previously present in the imperial coat of arms with the imperial crown, sword/sceptre and orb. In 1945, the broken chains on the eagle's talons were added as a symbol of liberation from National Socialist rule. On the eagle's chest is the shield, a red shield with a silver crossbar. It is particularly noteworthy that the coat of arms is always shown free-floating and without a shield, which emphasizes its uniqueness and historical significance.

Symbols of Austria's diversity

The coats of arms of Austria's federal states are a fascinating insight into the country's history, culture and identity. Each coat of arms, with its specific colors and symbols, embodies the uniqueness and pride of the respective federal state. When you look at these coats of arms, you embark on an exciting journey through time through Austrian history. It is worth learning more about these fascinating symbols and appreciating their significance in Austrian culture.

Diversity in the wind: The flags of the Austrian federal states with their coats of arms ©elmar_gubisch/stock.adobe.com

from vienna to vorarlberg: a flag journey through austria

Burgenland: A red, golden-crowned eagle on a rock in a golden shield. On its breast is a small shield alternately divided into red and cuirass (fur decoration), flanked by two black crosses.

Carinthia: A shield in gold and red. On the left side are three black colored lions with red tongues, followed by a silver bar. In the red part a silver bar(banded shield).

Upper Austria: Shows a golden eagle in the split shield in front in black, behind three times split by silver and red. The whole is crowned by the Austrian archducal hat.

Lower Austria: Shows five golden eagles in a blue background. It was originally used around 1335 as the sign of St. Leopold. In 1360, Duke Rudolf IV integrated it as the symbol of Old Austria.

Upper Austria: Presents on a divided shield a golden eagle on a black background and next to it a design in silver and red, divided three times. It is crowned by the Austrian archducal hat.

Salzburg: Salzburg's coat of arms shows a division of gold and red, with a black lion on the left and a silver bar on the right. A princely hat is enthroned above the shield.

Styria: Presents itself with a green coat of arms showing a silver, fire-breathing panther. This symbol goes back to a seal of Duke Ottokar from the 12th century.

Tyrol: The coat of arms shows a silver shield with a red eagle crowned in gold with two wing claspers and cloverleaf ends and a green wreath behind its head.

Vorarlberg: It shows in a silver shield a red, black fimbriated and 3-part church flag on 3 red rings, which are crossed in the upper part by 2 and in each of the 3 bibs by 3 black narrow bars.

Vienna: It shows a red shield with a white cross inside. In addition, it can be used in the form of a breast shield in the figure of a black, golden eagle.

Further links:

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flaggen_und_Wappen_der_L%C3%A4nder_%C3%96sterreichs

https://austria-forum.org/af/Wissenssammlungen/Symbole/Bundesl%C3%A4nderwappen

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