Scotland's National Animal Is a Unicorn: Why a Mythical Creature Represents a Real Country

Scotland's national animal is the unicorn, a mythical creature that has symbolized Scottish royalty and independence for over 600 years. Unlike most countries that choose real animals like lions, eagles, or bears, Scotland embraced a legendary creature that represents qualities the nation values: purity, innocence, power, and freedom.

Historical Origins of the Symbol

Scottish kings first used the unicorn as a heraldic symbol as early as the 1100s during the reign of King William I. However, it became the official national animal under King Robert III in the late 1300s. Medieval bestiaries depicted unicorns as wild, untamable beasts that only a virgin could capture.

Why Scotland Chose a Unicorn

Scotland deliberately selected the unicorn for its symbolic associations with power and independence. Medieval tradition held that the unicorn was the natural enemy of the lion, which served as England's symbol. According to legend, a free unicorn was a dangerous beast, but once captured, it became the most loyal of creatures.

The Chained Unicorn Mystery

Scottish heraldic unicorns almost always appear wearing a golden chain around their necks or bodies. They show that Scottish monarchs are strong enough to tame even the wildest, most powerful creatures. When Scotland and England united their crowns in 1603 under King James VI of Scotland, the British Royal Coat of Arms featured an English lion and a Scottish unicorn, both crowned.

Unicorns in British Symbolism

The British Royal Coat of Arms displays the historical relationship between Scotland and England through its supporting animals. The left side shows a crowned English lion standing on its hind legs. This pairing commemorates the 1603 Union of the Crowns when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England.

Unicorn Beliefs in Medieval Times

Medieval people sincerely believed unicorns existed as real animals. Travelers' tales from distant lands described them alongside elephants, rhinoceros, and other exotic beasts. Pharmacies sold powdered unicorn horn as medicine for hundreds of years.

Modern Scottish Unicorns

Unicorns remain prominently featured throughout Scotland today. Mercat crosses, historic market monuments found in Scottish towns, often feature unicorn sculptures. Stirling Castle displays beautiful 16th century unicorn tapestries called the Hunt of the Unicorn.