ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Coat of arms of the University of Cambridge

The coat of arms is like a special picture that represents something important or special. In the case of the University of Cambridge, their coat of arms is a picture that shows important things about the university.

The coat of arms of the University of Cambridge has a shield as the main part of the picture. It is divided into four parts, called quarters. Each quarter has different symbols that represent important aspects of the university.

In the top left quarter, there is a picture of three gold lions on a red background. This is called the royal lions and represents the connection between the university and the British monarchy. The university was founded by royal permission, which means that it was allowed to be created by the kings and queens of England.

In the top right quarter, there is a picture of a book with a red cross on it. This is called the Saint George’s cross and represents the connection between the university and the city of Cambridge. Saint George is the patron saint of England, and the red cross is a symbol associated with him. The book represents learning and knowledge, which is what the university is all about.

In the bottom left quarter, there is a picture of a shield with three gold crowns on a blue background. This is called the coat of arms of the University. The three gold crowns represent the three colleges that existed when the university was founded – Peterhouse, Clare, and Pembroke. This shows the history and tradition of the university.

In the bottom right quarter, there is a picture of a gold lion on a red background. This is called the royal lion and represents the connection between the university and the British monarchy, just like the lions in the top left quarter.

Above the shield, there is a gold crown called a crest. This represents the authority and importance of the university.

Below the shield, there is a Latin motto that says “Hinc Lucem et Pocula Sacra,” which means “From here, light and sacred knowledge.” This motto represents the purpose of the university – to bring knowledge and understanding to the world.

Overall, the coat of arms of the University of Cambridge is a special picture that tells us about the history, tradition, and importance of the university. It shows the connection with the British monarchy and the city of Cambridge, and the focus on learning and knowledge.