The coat of arms of Georgia: history and modernity

The modern coat of arms of Georgia was approved in 2004. This is a large red shield, which is supported by two golden lions. On it there is an image of the silver figure of St. George (the main patron of the state), who kills with a spear of a dragon. Above, above the shield, is the golden Georgian crown. The modern coat of arms was created under the influence of cultural traditions. Therefore, in order to understand what each of its elements symbolizes, we should consider the heraldic history of Georgian lands.

Ancient History and Heraldry of Georgia

Even before our era on modern territory of Georgia, there were two kingdoms: Iberian and Colchis. The banner of the ruler of Colchis Vakhtang I is one of the oldest relics. Later, Georgian lands were part of various states: the Roman Empire, Byzantium, the Arab Caliphate. But the closest ties were established with Great Armenia. It was under her influence that Christianity was accepted in Georgia. And then for the first time in the symbolism of the ruling dynasty of Bagrationi appears the image of the Chiton of the Lord. The same figure was the main element of the coat of arms of Vakhtang VI. The emblem of the Bagrationi dynasty was a shield, on the sides of which stood two lions. In the four fields of the shield contained the following images: a golden power, a harp, a sling, a crossed scepter and a saber.

At this time, also appears the image of St. George the Victorious - the most revered of the saints on the territory of Georgia and Ossetia. The appearance of the legend of St. George the Victorious is associated with the activities of St. Nina (IV century).

Coat of arms of the Georgian kingdom

The coat of arms of Georgia in the XIX century. Was a combination of symbols of the Caucasian lands, which at that time were part of the Russian Empire.

• The first part symbolized Iveria. On a red background a silver horse was depicted. In two corners were located eight-pointed stars.
• The second part of the shield symbolized Kartaliniya. On the golden background was depicted a fire-breathing mountain. It was pierced by two black arrows.
• The third part is a symbol of the Kabardian territories. A small golden shield was depicted on a blue background. He lay on two silver crossed arrows. In the middle of the shield a red crescent was drawn.
• The fourth part is a symbol of Armenia. On the golden background was drawn a red lion, crowned with a crown.
• The end of the emblem symbolized the lands of Cherkasy and Gorski princes. On a gold background, there was a Circassian who was seated on a black galloping horse.
• On the central shield was the coat of arms of Georgia. On it was depicted George the Victorious, piercing a spear of a dragon.

Coat of arms of the Georgian Democratic Republic

Consider the flag and the coat of arms of Georgia in 1918-1921. It should be noted that the Georgian Democratic Republic was established on the territory of the Batumi region and two provinces: Tiflis and Kutaisi. The authors of the main symbols of the new formation were IA Sharleman and Ya. I. Nikoladze.

The coat of arms of Georgia in 1918-1921. Was a star with seven ends. In its center was a brown shield, on which was depicted George the Victorious, sitting on a white horse. In his right hand he held a spear of gold, and in the left - a shield. Over St. George was depicted eight-pointed stars (5 pieces), as well as a month and the sun.

Flag of Georgia in 1918-1921. Was a canvas color (dark shade of red). In the upper left corner were two bands: black and white. They symbolized the main colors of the Kartli-Kakhetian kingdom.

Flag and coat of arms of Georgia in the Soviet period

The Georgian SSR was proclaimed in 1921. The authors of her coat of arms were IA Charleman and EE Lansere. They were among the founders of the Georgian Democratic Republic in 1918. That is why the coat of arms of the GSSR differed significantly from other socialist symbols. It sounded more national than traditional Soviet motives.

In 1990, the main symbol of the republic regains even more national motives. Exact description of the coat of arms of Georgia 1990-2004. Can be found in the amendments to the Constitution of the GSPC. He was a seven-pointed star decorated with ornaments. In its center was drawn a circle of dogwood color. In it was St. George on a white horse, which stood on the top of the mountain. In his hand Pobedonosets held a spear. On top of it were five eight-pointed silver stars, the moon and the sun.

The modern coat of arms of Georgia: the meaning

The main elements of the modern coat of arms of this state:

• Red shield.
• Silver figure of St. George (patron of the state).
• Georgian Crown (symbol of the Bagrationi dynasty).
• Golden lions supporting the shield.
• The inscription: "Strength in Unity".

George the Victorious on the Georgian coat of arms is a symbol of Christian traditions and values. The image of this saint embodies the strength, will and unity of the people.
The main colors - red and gold - carry power and wealth. At the same time, the Georgian coat of arms contains white and silver shades. They symbolize the purity and power of the people in their state.