The Mystique of the Key

For many centuries, keys represented authority, security, and power. Gods, goddesses, and saints are described as holders of the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven, to Bottomless Pit, to Gates of Earth and Sea. Kings, emperors, nobles of the court, and cities and towns incorporated the symbol of the key into banners, coats of arms and official seals. The delivery of keys to a castle, fortress, or city was a ceremonial event, as is the presentation of the Key-To-The-City today to a visiting dignitary.

Shown here is a large Roman key.