Aalen

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AALEN

State : Baden-Württemberg
District (Kreis) : Ostalbkreis (until 1972 Aalen)
Additions : 1938 Unterrombach; 1972 Dewangen, Ebnat, Fachsenfeld, Hofen, Unterkochen, Waldhausen, Wasseralfingen

Official blazon

In Gold der schwarze Reichsadler, belegt mit einem roten Brustschild, darin ein gekrümmter silberner Aal.

Origin/meaning

The eel on the arms of Aalen is a canting symbol. It is already known as the symbol for the city since 1385. The town received city rights in 1339, and became an imperial town in 1360. Nevertheless the arms remained the simple eel. Only in some seals the imperial eagle appeared, but not before 1691. The colour of the eel is known since the 16^th century. The arms were officially granted in 1939, but in 1956 the arms were changed (the claws and bill of the eagle became black instead of red).Before 1939 the city only used the eel on the shield as city arms, and the eagle as a supporter.