FEBRUARY 14, 2026 — In Belgium, the municipal council of Pajottegem has approved the official designs for its new flag and coat of arms, reports VRT NWS.
This marks a significant step for the entity formed by the merger of Gooik, Galmaarden, and Herne.
Although the merger took effect on January 1, 2025, the municipality had operated without official heraldic emblems for over a year. The new designs were developed by illustrator Marc Van de Cruyse in collaboration with local heritage associations and the Flemish Heraldic Council, a governmental advisory body responsible for provincial and municipal iconography.
It incorporates the hammers associated with Gooik, the lion from Galmaarden, and the sword of Herne.
Beyond these historical charges, the composition features a wave pattern intended to represent the rolling topography of the Pajottenland region.
A blue tincture was selected to symbolize the Mark River, which flows through the territory.
While the council has granted its local approval, the emblems remain provisional until they receive a formal decree from the Flemish government, after which they may be used in an official administrative capacity.
Image: deklaroen
