What does the orb with a cross on top mean?

The globus cruciger (Latin for “cross-bearing orb”), also known as “the orb and cross”, is an orb surmounted by a cross. The cross represents Christ’s dominion over the orb of the world, literally held in the hand of an earthly ruler.

Why do most European flags have crosses?

Many predominantly Christian states show a cross, symbolising Christianity, on their national flag. The so-called Scandinavian crosses or Nordic crosses on the flags of the Nordic countries–Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden–also represent Christianity.

How many stars are on the EU flag?

12
The European flag symbolises both the European Union and, more broadly, the identity and unity of Europe. It features a circle of 12 gold stars on a blue background. They stand for the ideals of unity, solidarity and harmony among the peoples of Europe.

What is the ball in the crown jewels?

The Sovereign’s Orb
The Sovereign’s Orb is a piece of coronation regalia. It was created for the coronation of Charles II in 1661 from the royal goldsmith Robert Viner. It is made of gold, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, amethyst, diamonds, pearls, and enamel. It has been used at all coronations and events after the one of Charles II.

Why do kings hold orbs?

The royal orb is a traditional symbol of monarchical power. The royal orb symbolises the earth. Since Hellenic times, the globe has served as a sign of sovereign power. The Roman emperors used the globe as a symbol of their world domination, usually with the goddess of victory positioned on top.

What country’s flag has a blue cross?

Finland
The Finnish flag with “the blue of our lakes and the white snow of our winters”, as a poet described these symbolic colours in 1870, was made official in a law enacted on May 29, 1918, less than six months after Finland had achieved independence. The flag features a blue cross on a white background.

What do queens hold in their hands?

The Sovereign’s sceptre is one of two sceptres used in the coronation ceremony, and is also known as the Sovereign’s sceptre with the cross, representing the temporal power of The King or Queen, and is associated with good governance.

What is the oldest Crown in the world?

Crown of Princess Blanche
The Crown of Princess Blanche, also called the Palatine Crown or Bohemian Crown, is the oldest surviving royal crown known to have been in England, and probably dates to 1370–80. It is made of gold with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, enamel and pearls.

Do queens have scepters?

For the coronation of Charles II of England, new sceptres with the Cross and the Dove were made, and though slightly altered, they are still in use today. Two sceptres for the queen consort, one with a cross, and the other with a dove, have been subsequently added.