The three lions are the emblem of England. William the Conqueror used two lions on a red background as his coat of arms and brought this symbol to the English throne. It was King Henry II who first used three lions on a red background, adding a lion to William the Conqueror's two when he married Eleanor of Aquitaine, probably to represent his marriage into that family. The three lions shield can be seen today on the England football team kit and is recognised around the world.
Armorial Shield With Three Lions Emblem
Contributed by Holy Trinity York Churches Conservation Trust
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