Portuguese legend states how the body of the saint was bought to the Algarve in 1173 whilst on its way to the capital to be interred at Lisbon Cathedral by King Afonso I.

[1] This legend made its way into Portuguese folklore, resulting in the scene being used to represent Lisbon.

Draped immediately below is the collar of the Order of the Tower and Sword, which was awarded to the city on 3 June 1920 by President António José de Almeida.

[2][3] Beneath the coat of arms there is a white scroll bearing the motto MUI NOBRE E SEMPRE LEAL CIDADE DE LISBOA ("Most noble and ever loyal city of Lisbon").

Above the coat of arms there is a golden mural crown with five visible towers, indicating Lisbon's city and capital status.