October 12, 2010. The papal crest that hangs from Benedict XVI window is sporting a new design this week. That was before and this is now. We still don't know if the changes are definitive or if it's just one version of the papal coat of arms.
The exterior is inspired by Pope Barberini's crest, which is found on the canopy or baldacchino of Saint Peter's main altar.
The main difference compared to the prior is the comeback of the papal triple crown, which highlights governmental function of the Pope.
A symbol present in all the papal crests of the last century, including that of Pope John Paul the second.
No longer visible in this version is the bishop's miter that represents the brotherhood between all bishops and the mission to teach Christians.
Since they're compatible, which one he decides to use will probably depend on the type of ceremony.
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