A national symbol is a symbol of any entity considering itself and manifesting itself to the world as a national community – namely sovereign states, but also nations and countries in a state of colonial or other dependence, (con)federal integration, or even an ethnocultural community considered a 'nationality' despite the absence of political autonomy. National symbols intend to unite people by creating visual, verbal, or iconic representations of the national people, values, goals, or history. These symbols are often rallied around as part of celebrations of patriotism or aspiring nationalism (such as independence, autonomy or separation movements) and are designed to be inclusive and representative of all the peoples of the national community.
Common official national symbols
- The flag of a nation-state
- The coat of arms, seal or stamp of the land and/or ruling dynasty
- The associated device and/or motto can also be use separately
- The national colours, often derived from the above
- emblematic animals and plants/flowers, whether related to the above or not
- either the above or more abstract symbols, especially crosses,
- National anthems, royal and imperial hymns; alongside such official hymn(s) custom may also recognize the national symbol value of very popular songs, such as
- The office of the Head of State, and in case of a monarchy (often to some extent even after its political elimination) certain of its regalia, such as crown jewels
- The Father of the Nation and other founding fathers
- The Mother of the Nation and other founding mothers
Common unofficial national symbols
- National myths about the country's history or founding
- National epics
- National dishes
- National dress - this can have a more official character in the case of court dress or military uniforms
- National Day
- National instrument
- Nationalism
- National pastimes
- Folk dances
- Folk hero
- Folk instrument
- Folk music
- Culture hero
- 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
