What Is the Symbol of the City of London?

By Anna Duncan

The City of London is a historic and vibrant city that is home to many iconic landmarks and symbols. One of the most recognizable symbols of this city is the heraldic emblem that represents it. This symbol has been used for centuries and has become an important part of London’s identity.

The symbol of the City of London is a red shield with a white cross on it. This emblem is known as the “Cross of St. George” and is also the national symbol of England. The red color in the shield represents courage and bravery, while the white cross represents purity and faith.

The history behind this emblem goes back to medieval times when knights would carry banners with their own unique designs into battle. The Cross of St. George was one such design that became popular among English knights during the Crusades.

Over time, this symbol became associated with England itself and was used on flags, coats of arms, and other official documents. When the City of London was granted its own coat of arms in 1539, it adopted the Cross of St. George as its central emblem.

Today, you can see this symbol prominently displayed all over London. It can be found on flags flown outside government buildings, on street signs, and even on public transport vehicles such as buses and taxis.

In addition to its use as a symbol for the City of London, the Cross of St. George has also become associated with English football (soccer) teams such as Manchester United and Chelsea FC who incorporate it into their logos.

Overall, the Cross of St. George is an important part of both English and London history that continues to be used today as a symbol for courage, purity, and faith. Its bold design makes it instantly recognizable and it will likely remain an iconic part of London’s identity for many years to come.

If you’re planning a trip to London or just want to learn more about its rich history, be sure to keep an eye out for the Cross of St. George and other symbols that make this city so special.