The national emblem of Armenia, also known as the coat of arms, is a rich and detailed symbol that encapsulates the country’s ancient heritage, enduring sovereignty, and national pride. Officially adopted on April 19, 1992, following Armenia’s independence from the Soviet Union, the emblem reflects both historical continuity and the rebirth of the Armenian state.
At the center of the coat of arms is a shield divided into four quadrants, each representing one of the four historic Armenian kingdoms, with a central image symbolizing the Republic of Armenia itself. The shield is supported on either side by two noble animals: an eagle and a lion.
Elements of the Shield:
Top Left – Kingdom of Bagratuni (9th–11th centuries):
Depicted by a lion with a cross, symbolizing strength and faith, referencing the era when Ani was the capital of Armenia.
Top Right – Kingdom of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh):
Shows a two-headed eagle, representing the Principality of Cilicia and its ties with European heraldry, particularly during the Crusades.
Bottom Left – Arsacid (Arshakuni) Dynasty (1st–5th centuries):
Features an eagle, reflecting royal authority and the kingdom’s long-lasting cultural legacy.
Bottom Right – Rubenid Dynasty of Cilician Armenia (12th–14th centuries):
Contains a lion and a cross, symbolizing bravery and Christianity.
Center – Mount Ararat with Noah’s Ark:
In the heart of the shield stands Mount Ararat, the national symbol of Armenia, with Noah’s Ark resting on its peak — a reference to the biblical story of the ark coming to rest on Ararat, believed to be in historic Armenian territory. Though Ararat lies in modern-day Turkey, it remains an iconic cultural and spiritual symbol for Armenians.
Supporters:
Eagle (left):
Traditionally symbolizes power, independence, and resilience. The eagle has appeared in Armenian royal insignia since ancient times.
Lion (right):
Represents nobility, courage, and strength. Like the eagle, the lion has deep historical ties to Armenian royal iconography.
Both animals are shown standing proudly and protectively, signifying the guardianship of the Armenian nation.
Additional Symbolic Elements:
Beneath the shield are five objects, symbolizing the strength and unity of the nation:
A sword: Represents the nation’s struggle for freedom and the fight against oppression.
A broken chain: Symbolizes liberation from tyranny and independence.
A wheat ear and a feather: Represent the hard work of the Armenian people, their agricultural traditions, and their rich literary and cultural heritage.
The national emblem of Armenia is a powerful visual summary of the country’s thousands of years of history, its Christian heritage, and its aspiration for peace, sovereignty, and cultural richness. It combines elements from ancient Armenian kingdoms with modern national symbolism, tying the past and present together in one cohesive national identity.