Firefighters Maltese Cross Symbol
The maltese cross is an eight pointed cross formed by four v shaped elements that each meet at its vertex.
Firefighters maltese cross symbol. If you visit malta you will also see the cross incorporated in the stonework on various houses. The maltese cross firefighters if you take a look at almost any fire apparatus today you re likely to see the maltese cross. John now the. Firefighter cross firefighter vector illustration in monocrome vintage style.
Find fire department or firefighters maltese cross symbol stock images in hd and millions of other royalty free stock photos illustrations and vectors in the shutterstock collection. It is used in the logo of many local institutions such as the malta tourism authority and of course it is also a part of the official sports uniform for the. While it s not really there for aesthetic appeal this emblem has a very rich history and it symbolized an elite group of people that have dedicated their lives to serve their everyone in need. According to many websites we need to go back to 1113 ad.
They chose the cross of calvary as their symbol since they fought their battles as a holy cause. This is when a special group of knights were founded in. The shape itself has origins dating back to byzantine culture in the 6th century. It is an eight pointed star with rounded edges and is the cross that looks most alike to the crosses on firefighter emblems today.
The maltese cross dates back to the crusades of the 14th century. The cross was later called the maltese cross and represented the principles of charity loyalty chivalry gallantry generosity to friend and foe protection of the weak and dexterity in service. It is a heraldic cross variant which developed from earlier forms of eight pointed crosses in the 16th century. Fire department emblem st florian maltese cross fire department volunteer firefighter icon.
Custom maltese cross firefighter logo vector design symbol colored vector illustration icon. Thousands of new high quality pictures added every day. What is the history of the maltese cross. But where did it come from and how did it transform into the symbol of the firefighter.
The maltese cross is a cross symbol consisting of four v or arrowhead shaped concave quadrilaterals converging at a central vertex at right angles two tips pointing outward symmetrically. Although chiefly associated with the knights hospitaller order of st. The original maltese cross firefighter s symbol along with its variations are thus displayed on the coats of firemen in several countries. Learn more about the history of the firefighter s maltese cross the maltese cross is used throughout the fire service in the united states as a symbol of honor courage and dedication.