College of Arms, City of London, Greater London
This building dates from 1670-77 and was built in 2 phases for the College of Heralds. It was originally a courtyard building but has since been cut through by Queen Victoria Street. The College of Arms is the official archive of the coats of arms and pedigrees (family trees) of English, Welsh, Northern Irish and Commonwealth families and their descendants. The officers of the College are known as heralds. They date back to the early middle ages when heralds organised tournaments. Knights were recognised by the arms they bore on their shields. The heralds therefore became experts in coats of arms and genealogy. They also organise state occasions such as Royal funerals and the Coronation.
