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Coat of arms of Austria

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Coat of arms of Austria

The coat of arms of Austria, known in German as the "Bundeswappen Österreichs" (Federal Coat of Arms of Austria), is one of the oldest and most symbolic emblems of the country. Its history dates back several centuries, and it has seen many variations over time. Here's a description of the current coat of arms:

Design

  • Eagle: At the heart of the coat of arms is a black, double-headed eagle. The double-headed eagle is a symbol with Byzantine and Holy Roman Empire origins, representing the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary for centuries.

  • Feathers: The eagle's feathers are meticulously detailed, emphasizing its majesty and power.

  • Breast Shield: On the eagle's chest is a shield with three horizontal bands. The top and bottom bands are red, while the middle one is white. This red-white-red combination is a direct representation of the Austrian flag.

  • Crown: Above the eagle's heads is a mural crown. This particular crown symbolizes the middle class of Austria and the country's bourgeois freedom.

  • Chains: Around the eagle's legs are broken chains, symbolizing the liberation of Austria and its independence.

  • Sickle and Hammer: In each of the eagle's talons, it holds a tool. In the left talon, there is a sickle, and in the right, there's a hammer. These tools represent the farmers and the working class, respectively, emphasizing the unity of these essential components of Austrian society.

Historical Context

The use of the eagle in Austria's coat of arms can be traced back to the Holy Roman Empire, where the double-headed eagle was a common symbol of imperial power. The current design elements, especially the sickle, hammer, and broken chains, were added after World War II to signify a democratic and independent Austria after years of Nazi rule.

Conclusion

The coat of arms of Austria is more than just an emblem; it's a tapestry of the nation's rich history, values, and aspirations. Each element tells a story, from the ancient origins of the double-headed eagle to the post-war symbols of unity and freedom. Today, it stands as a proud representation of the Austrian Republic and its resilient spirit.