Nancy Trivia: What Does a Thistle Have to Do with This French City? 🌿

Let’s play a little trivia! 👇

Question:
The coat of arms of Nancy, France, features a thistle. What was the thistle originally a symbol of?

a) The Virgin Mary
b) Defense and Protection
c) The Victorian Era

Think you know the answer?

If you guessed a) The Virgin Mary, you’re right!

While the thistle might not be the first symbol that comes to mind when thinking of the Virgin Mary, in medieval times it held deep spiritual significance. In the case of Nancy, the thistle served as both a religious emblem and a unique symbol of the city's identity.

Over time, the thistle also came to represent resilience, defense, and protection—fitting for a city with a history of strength and revival, from battles to rebuilding its beloved opera house. 🌱

So next time you spot the thistle on Nancy’s coat of arms, you’ll know it’s more than just a pretty plant—it’s a proud symbol of faith, heritage, and the enduring spirit of the city.

Stay tuned for more trivia and tales as we celebrate the rich history and culture of our Sister City, Nancy, France.