12-05-2024 The Coat of Arms of Valencia
If you're visiting Oliva beach on a family getaway, you’ll probably want to take a trip to the city of Valencia, which is less than an hour’s drive away. While sightseeing in Valencia, you’re likely to encounter the city’s coat of arms in several iconic spots: La Lonja de la Seda, the North Station, the Colón Market, the City Hall, and more. But why does the coat of arms of Valencia feature a bat?
Lo Rat Penat is the popular name for the heraldic representation of a bat atop the royal crown, wings spread, on Valencia’s coat of arms. It symbolizes greatness, protection, and vigilance. This emblem is widely recognized across Spain and owes its origin to one of the most famous legends of the Valencian Community.
Although, truth be told, you might be more familiar with the emblem of Valencia Football Club!
According to the tale, during the siege of Valencia by King James I the Conqueror, the Arabs used bats to ward off mosquitoes, believing that as long as bats flew through the night, the city would remain protected and undefeated.
However, fate had other plans. One of these mammals flew into the Christian camp where King James I and his Aragonese troops were stationed, in what is now the Ruzafa neighborhood, outside the city’s ancient walls.
It’s said that the bat fluttered vigorously against a drum and knocked over several weapons, alerting the Christians that the enemy was approaching.
The Conqueror king emerged victorious and, as a token of reward and gratitude, he placed the bat atop his helmet and royal shield. From that moment, the role of the bat as a savior transcended history and found a place in Valencia’s legacy.
The story of Lo Rat Penat is prominently featured in various monuments, buildings, pieces of modern art, and even serves as a theme for numerous cultural events. It’s also the logo of the local football team.
So, if you’re staying in a vacation rental in Oliva or Valencia, don’t forget to share this fascinating anecdote with your family and friends!
