In 1575, shortly after the Relief of Leiden, the newly founded university chose a particularly powerful symbol: the Roman goddess Minerva.
This choice was no accident. As goddess of wisdom, arts, peace and war, Minerva embodied exactly the values the young university wanted to promote. In a city that had just endured a successful siege, she symbolised both the intellectual aspirations and the combative spirit of the academic community.
Symbol of wisdom and strength
Minerva became the university's emblem early on. On the institution's first great seal, we see her depicted as a peaceful scholar: she is engrossed in a book, while her weapons - shield and spear - rest against the ground. This depiction emphasises the university's primary focus on the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge, while maintaining its vigilant character.
From seal to corporate identity
Over the centuries, the image of Minerva developed into a central element of university identity. The original seal was used for official documents and formed the basis for numerous variants. The image of the goddess appeared on:
- Official university seals and stamps
- Academic bulls and certificates
- Historical book bindings
- Title pages of university publications
Contemporary meaning
Even today, Minerva remains a powerful symbol for Leiden University. Her image unites various aspects of the academic mission:
- The pursuit of wisdom and knowledge
- The protection of academic freedom
- The connection between tradition and progress
- The combination of critical thinking and decisiveness
The age-old choice of Minerva as a university symbol still reflects the institution's core values: the pursuit of wisdom and truth, combined with social commitment and responsibility. Its continued presence in the university's logo reminds us of this rich tradition and enduring mission.
Log in om een reactie achter te laten of registeer je.