Greek heraldry, though not as developed as in other countries, has an interesting history by drawing upon its Byzantine Empire, Byzantine heritage and influences from the various western powers that have Frankokratia, occupied Greek lands. Heraldry is therefore seen as a foreign concept, and is widespread mostly in the Ionian Islands, Ionian and Aegean Islands (former Republic of Venice, Venetian and Republic of Genoa, Genoese possessions) and among the families of Phanariot origin
Ancient Greeks were among the first civilizations to use symbols consistently in order to identify a warrior, clan or a state. In Aeschylus’ tragedy ''Seven Against Thebes'' there is the first record of a shield blazon.
See also
* Byzantine heraldry
* Coat of arms of Greece
External links
The Greek Royal Heraldry 1863-1967
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Heraldry by country
Culture of Greece, Heraldry