Lüneburg
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Heraldry of the World Civic heraldry of Germany - Deutsche Wappen (Gemeindewappen/Kreiswappen) |
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LÜNEBURG
State : Niedersachsen
District (Kreis) : Lüneburg
Additions : 1943 Hagen, Lüne; 1974 Häcklingen, Ochtmissen, Oedeme, Rettmer
Origin/meaning
Lüneburg received city rights in the early 13th century and was one of the main cities in the Duchy of Braunschweig. One of the branches of the Welfen dynasty also named themselves after the city, Braunschweig-Lüneburg.
The oldest known seal dates from 1247 and shows already a castle with in the gate the arms of the Dukes of Braunschweig, however, without the hearts. The use of this composition as arms is known since the early 17th century. All seals and arms have since shown the same composition, even though the shape of the castle has changed considerably during the centuries. Also, some images show the lion facing left, instead of right. Often also a helmet with peacock feathers and a crescent was used as a crest; as well as two lions as supporters.
 The seal from 1247 |
 The arms as shown in 1891 |
 Seal from around 1900 |
 The arms in the Kaffee Hag albums +/- 1925 |
 The present logo-style arms as used by the city of Lüneburg |
The use of arms in the city:
 The arms on an old merchant's house ([1]) |
 The arms on the city hall (image send to me by mail) |
Literature : Stadler,1964-1971, 8 volumes; Ahrens, 1891