Postaci św. Michała Archanioła i św. Gabriela Archanioła w herbach polskich miast
The figures of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel in the coats of arms of Polish cities

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this publication is an analysis of Polish city coats of arms, which evoke the figures of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. At present, the images of these two Archangels can be found in the coats of arms of nine Polish cities. The figure of Archangel Michael is visible in the coats of arms of eight cities (Biała Podlaska, Dolsk, Łańcut, Sanok, Słomniki, Strzelin, Strzyżów, Zawidów). The Archangel Gabriel figures in only one coat of arms (Supraśl). Nearly all the cities (with the exception of Dolsk) that feature the two Archangels in their coats of arms, are located in eastern, south and south-western Poland. The images of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel are a relatively common motif in Polish urban heraldry. This popularity is evidence not only of the fairly widespread worship these divine messengers enjoyed and continue to enjoy in the country, but also strongly emphasizes the Christian roots of Poland.

• Details
• Contents