Glamorgan Crest

The University of Glamorgan crest has been developed to closely reflect the University’s past and its future.
The design is called the Achievement of Arms, the most important part of which is the shield. In heraldry, the surface of a shield is known as the field, which is green in the Glamorgan crest to represent both the location of the University and the environmental disciplines studied at Glamorgan.

A symbolic depiction of Pontypridd’s historic bridge appears in the centre of the shield, while the three books bear the words “Cofia Ddysgu Byw.” The word are those of Rhondda miner and poet Ben Bowen (1878 – 1902) and mean “remember to learn to live” which was the motto of the Glamorgan College of Education at Barry incorporated into the institution in 1975.

Above the shield is the helm, which is associated with corporate bodies. On top of the helm within the torse of twisted silk silver and green is the crest. The crest features the Welsh dragon with outstretched wings holding a gold computer ferrite memory store matrix, representing the technological aspects of the University and the marriage of old with new.

Each of the dragon’s wings is charged with a gold chevron which refers to Iestyn ap Gwrgan, the last King of Glamorgan and to the mediaeval family of De Clare, Lords of Glamorgan. From the helm hangs the mantle in red and silver, the livery colours attributed to Iestyn ap Gwrgan.

Supporting the shield are two dragons, which represent Wales and the Orient, reflecting the international nature of the University. The pickaxe and cogwheel symbolise not only the heavy industries which fuelled the development of the Welsh economy, but also the vocational nature of the courses offered at Glamorgan.

The granting of Ensigns Armorial is an exercise of the Royal Prerogative and, as such, is testament to the esteem in which the University of Glamorgan is held.