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Azorean symbols explained
Posted 4/13/2012 Updated 4/13/2012
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Commentary by Eduardo Lima
65th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
4/13/2012 - LAJES FIELD, Portugal -- The Azores has been an autonomous region since 1976, although being an integral part of Portugal. As such, it has created its own symbols, namely a flag, coat of arms and the regional anthem.
The Azorean flag is somewhat similar to the former royal Portuguese flag used between 1830 and 1910, with the exception that the Portuguese coat of arms was moved from the center to the top left corner of the flag. It features blue and white colors, the golden goshawk is centered under an arch of nine golden stars, which represent the nine Azorean islands. The goshawk bird (Açor) is considered a symbol of the Azores, thus the reason why it appears in the flag.
The official coat of arms of the Azores is formed by nine gold stars superimposed on a red bordure, representing the nine islands of the Azores. The bordure surrounds a silver shield on which a blue eagle is displayed with wings elevated. The crest is a closed helm surrounded by a wreath, topped by another blue eagle.
The shield is supported by two chained black bulls, each holding a flagpole with Christian symbols. At the very bottom is a banner with the motto Antes Morrer Livres Que Em Paz Sugeitos (rather die free than in peace be subjected), a statement made by Ciprião de Figueiredo in 1582 to Phillip II of Spain, refusing the submission of Terceira Island to the Spaniards in exchange for favors.
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