Coat of arms of Belgium

The national coat of arms of Belgium centers on a heraldic lion known as the Leo Belgicus, with crown, motto and supporters. It appears in state and royal emblems and reflects national unity and history.

The coat of arms of Belgium is the country's principal heraldic emblem. Its central device is a rampant lion traditionally called the Leo Belgicus, a symbol long associated with the Low Countries. The palette—black, yellow (gold) and red—echoes the national flag, while the motto expresses a guiding political principle: "Unity makes strength."

Design and principal elements

The common composition shows a shield bearing a lion, often rendered in gold on a dark field, with red accents on the tongue and claws. Above the shield sits a crown or coronet in official versions, and the whole is frequently supported by two lions or framed by ornamental branches. Variants exist: a simpler 'lesser' arms for government use and a more elaborate 'greater' or royal achievement that adds mantle, banners or other royal insignia.

History and symbolism

The lion motif dates back to medieval heraldry in the region and became widely associated with the Low Countries. The image of the Leo Belgicus was popularized in early modern maps and prints as a personification of the Dutch-speaking and neighboring territories. After Belgian independence in the 19th century, the lion and associated colors were adopted to represent the new nation; the motto in French and Dutch has been used to emphasize cohesion among diverse linguistic communities.

Uses and official variants

State emblems: simplified arms are employed by government ministries, public agencies and official documents.
Royal arms: the sovereign’s achievement includes additional regalia such as a royal crown, mantle and supporters.
Public display: the coat of arms appears on coins, seals, passports and at official ceremonies and buildings.

Notable distinctions

Belgium’s national arms are distinct from the arms of its constituent regions and communities, each of which may use different shields and symbols. The lion remains a unifying motif, reused in municipal arms and historical emblems across the country. The slogan "Unity makes strength" is often cited alongside the heraldry as an emblem of national identity and the attempt to reconcile linguistic and cultural diversity.