Catalan Symbols

Catalan Symbols

The oldest Catalan symbol is the Coat of arms of Catalonia, one of the oldest coats of arms in Europe. It dates back to the 9th century, according to a legend that says that the four red bars (Quatre Pals or Quatre Barres) are the result of Charles the Bald, known also as Charles II, king of West Francia, smearing four bloodied fingers over Wilfred the Hairy's golden shield, after the latter had fought bravely against the Saracens.

Catalonia's symbols as defined in the Statute of Catalonia: are the flag, the national day, and the anthem:

• The flag of Catalonia or Senyera (its name in Catalan), based on the coat of arms, is presently the most representative official symbol.
• The commonly called La Diada, the National Day of Catalonia is on 11 September. It commemorates the 1714 Siege of Barcelona defeat during the War of the Spanish Succession.
• "Els Segadors" (The Reapers) is the official anthem of Catalonia. It has been an unofficial anthem of the Catalan people since the late 19th century, and recognized by law as official since 1993.

These symbols have often a political and revindicative significance.

The highest civil distinction awarded in Catalonia is the St George's Cross (Creu de Sant Jordi).