National emblems are, by their very nature, a point of patriotic pride. They represent something historic or metaphoric or catastrophic or anatomic or … well, sometimes it’s a bit unclear. Here are a few of our favourites.
The featured image of the Magnificent Frigatebird is by andreinvs.
Merlion – Singapore
Argh, it’s a lion – get in the car! No, wait, it’s a fish! No wait, it’s… an… umm, merlion?
This mythical beast supposedly represents a combination of Singapore’s fishing origins and its original name of “Lion City”.
Ironically, if lions had ever naturally appeared on the island, they would have had to have swum more than 2,000 miles to get there, so fishtails would be handy.
The three-pillared building in the distance is the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The Infinity Pool is the banana-shaped structure at the top. It’s one of our favourite highest swimming pools.
Lily of the Valley – Finland
Don’t let looks deceive you – this pretty little flower is extremely poisonous when consumed. What are you trying to say to the world here, Finland?
You’re a pretty country but you might kill us?
Or is it to do with the flower’s aroma which apparently has the ability to improve sperm fertility (hence its popularity in, ahem, bridal bouquets).
Oh Finland, you giveth and you taketh away!
Magnificent Frigatebird – Antigua and Barbuda
If you’re going to pick something for a national emblem, you can’t go wrong with an animal that has the word “magnificent” in its name.
And just look at it! That throat could plug a leak in your roof.
