Laois (county)

Heraldry of the World
Civic heraldry of the Ireland

COUNTY LAOIS

Official blazon

Origin/meaning

The chevronels or inverted V's, rising towards the top of the shield represent the Slieve Bloom Mountains and the Rock of Dunamaise and are charged with seven ermine spots representing the seven leading families or 'tribes' of Laois. The heraldic fountains of white and blue represent the source and beginning of the rivers Nore and Barrow. The fountains are also a mark of the county, showing its colours of white and blue.

The lion rampant in base is that of Ó Mordha, Kings of Laois. The background is gold, the colour of the Ó Mordha lion and stars.The motto "L báirt leis an bpobal" means "Together with the People".