The Coat of Arms of Querétaro is one of the most important symbols of the Mexican state of Querétaro, representing its history, culture, and identity. This coat of arms has a long tradition and deep meaning, reflecting the values and heritage of the region. In this text, we will explore the history and meaning of the Coat of Arms of Querétaro, highlighting its elements and the role it plays in representing the state.
Meaning and origin of the word “Querétaro” explained in a simple and objective way.
Querétaro is a word of indigenous origin that means "place of large stones" or "place where the stones shine." The name originates from the Otomi language , which was spoken by the native peoples of the region before the arrival of the Spanish.
The coat of arms of Querétaro is a symbol that represents the history and identity of the region. It was created during the colonial era and features elements that reflect indigenous culture and Spanish influence.
The coat of arms of Querétaro consists of a golden eagle on a blue background, symbolizing freedom and independence. In addition, it features two snakes in a spiral shape, representing the duality of life and death.
Coat of Arms of Querétaro: History and Meaning
The coat of arms of Querétaro is a symbolic representation of the Mexican legend referring to the conquest of Mexico during the Spanish Inquisition. Initially, this shield was granted by the Spanish crown in January 1656 under the title "Very noble and very loyal city of Santiago de Querétaro," but it would be modified some time later.
The coat of arms of Querétaro was granted by the Spanish Inquisition, at the time King Felipe IV handed over the coat of arms in 1656.
This had a very marked symbolism since it was handed over by the Spanish crown until its subsequent modification, with more traditional elements that represented times of struggle and victory.
Initially, the coat of arms of Querétaro represented the appearance of the Holy Cross and Santiago, the Apostle, during an eclipse that occurred during the battle for the conquest of the territory.
The fight between the Spanish and the Indians resulted in the surrender of the latter and the conquest of these lands.
Approved by the crown on September 29, 1712, the shield was exchanged years later by its inhabitants after Mexico became independent.
The central part of the shield was left as it was, but the Mexican shield was added, as well as its flag.
New symbols of war were also added, such as an eagle devouring a snake atop a prickly pear cactus.
In 1979, a decree was established establishing the new characteristics of the coat of arms and in 2015 the “Law of the Coat of Arms, Flag and Anthem of Querétaro” came into force.
In this new law, the importance of the shield was truly recognized and was read in chapter II:
“The coat of arms of the state of Querétaro is a civic symbol of the state's identity, worthy of honor and respect by all the inhabitants of the state, representing the foundation, history, customs, development and evolution of the people of Querétaro.”
What is its composition?
The first shield was divided into 3 sections.
At the top there was a sun that served as the base for the cross, next to it there was a star representing the eclipse with which the apostle James appeared as “the Holy Cross”.
In the lower left field, Santiago was depicted riding a white horse while wielding his sword. He placed the flag of the Spanish Inquisition.
In the lower right area there are 5 ears of wheat, a vine of grapes and a blue sky, representing the fertility of the lands of Querétaro.
When the shield was modified when Mexico was an independent country, the elements used apologized for integration into the Mexican federation (the eagle with the snake).
They also recall the resistance that existed during the Second Mexican Empire.
References
- Coat of arms of the state of Querétaro. Retrieved September 18, 2017, from: paratodomexico.com
- The Coat of Arms of Querétaro. Retrieved September 18, 2017, from: webqueretaro.com
- Coat of arms of Queretaro. Retrieved September 18, 2017, from wikipedia.org
- Querétaro. Retrieved September 18, 2017, froms.inafed.gob.mx
- Origin of the coat of arms of Querétaro. Retrieved September 18, 2017, from epoksqueretaro-vidacolonial.blogspot.com