MundoAndino Home : Ecuador Guide at mundoandino
Coat of arms of Ecuador
The coat of arms of Ecuador in its current form was established in 1900 based on an older version of 1845.
Blazon
In the background of the oval shield is the mount Chimborazo, while the river originating from its base represents the Guayas. They both symbolize the beauty and wealth of the respective regions (Sierra or Costa). The ship on the river is named Guayas as well. In 1841 it was built in Guayaquil and was the first seaworthy steamship built on the South American west coast. Instead of a mast it features a Caduceus representing trade and economy. On top a golden sun surrounded by the astrological signs for Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer representing the months March to July to symbolize the duration of the March Revolution of 1845.
The condor on top of the shield stretches his wings to symbolize power, greatness and strength of Ecuador. The shield is flanked by four flags of Ecuador. The laurel on the left represents the victories of the republic. The palm leaf on the right side is a symbol of the martyrs of the fight for independence and liberty. The Fasces below the shield represents the republican dignity.
Usage
The coat of arms is used by the President, the parliament, the ministries and several other authorities and public institutions. It is part of the flag, and used on many coins and bills of the former currency Sucre and the coins used today, Centavos del dolar of Ecuadorian mintage.
External links
Coat of Arms description on the Ecuadorian Government's Webpage (Spanish)
http://estrada.bz/escudo_del_ecuador.htm *[Ecuadorian historian's Webpage] (Spanish)
Need more information for your travel research or homework?
Ask your questions at the forum about National symbols of Ecuador or help others to find answers.
This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article Coat of arms of Ecuador
