National symbols

National symbols are patriotic symbols representing nations and countries. Sometimes, symbols are used for cultural or ethnic groups that do not have their own country yet.

National symbols try to unite people or send a message by representing the national people, values, goals, or history. People often honor their nation, country, or group by celebrating their national symbol.

Common official national symbols

• The flag of a nation
• The coat of arms, seal (device) and stamp of the land and/or ruling dynasty
• The national colours
• Animals and plants/flowers, whether real or not
• Crosses or other symbols of religion
• National anthems, royal and imperial hymns
• The office of the Head of State
• The regalia of a monarchy, such as crown jewels
• The Father of the Nation and other founding fathers

Common unofficial national symbols

• National myths about the country's history or founding
• National epics
• National dishes
• National dress
• National holiday
• National instrument
• Nationalism (music)
• National pastimes
• Folk dances
• Folk hero
• Folk instrument
• Folk music
• Culture hero
• Tricksters
• Monuments and cliches associated with tourism
• National personifications
• Various other national emblems, including special plants, animals and objects associated with the nation,
• in a nation largely stamped by a particular religion, some of its mste revered symbols may be adopted as national symbols (occasionally even officially), e.g. the patron saint or equivalent deity, a major pilgrimage site, church or temple

Other pages

• National symbols of Canada
• Religion in national symbols
• National symbols of Pakistan
• United States state symbols
• List of international auto racing colors

Other websites

National Symbols of France Flag (tricolore), motto, emblem (coat of arms), Seal of State, Cockerel, Marianne, and the French national anthem - the Marseillaise.