The History of Heraldry

Heraldry, in its broad meaning, traditionally had to do with the functions of a herald. Heraldry arose almost spontaneously in Medieval Europe around the 12th Century, coinciding with the development of armor, and the time of the crusades. This resulted in distinctive insignia being painted on the knight's shield and embroidered on his surcoat, which was the only means by which the warrior could be identified.