Heraldic designs came into general use among European nobility in the 12th century. Systematic, heritable heraldry had developed by the beginning of the 13th century. Exactly who had a right to use …

Jan 12, 2026 · Coat of arms, the principal part of a system of hereditary symbols dating back to early medieval Europe, used primarily to establish identity in battle. Arms evolved to denote family …

Peter O’Donoghue of The College of Arms explains the history behind coats of arms. Coats of arms, those colourful trappings of medieval chivalry, are still very much part of our modern world and those …

Explore the fascinating world of coat of arms symbols, their history, and legacy. Learn about using coat of arms and family crest symbols at home.

It is from this garment that the phrase “coat of arms” is derived. The origins of heraldry stretch back into ancient times. Warriors often decorated their shields with patterns and mythological motifs. Army …

Over the centuries its precision has benefited both historical research and artists and craftsmen demonstrating their skills in accurately reproducing the arms it described.

While a coat of arms were initially utilized by knights, they were eventually incorporated by both families and institutions. Depending upon the symbols and colors present in the coat of arms, different …