Rota (papal signature)

For the canonical tribunal, see Roman Rota.

The rota is one of the symbols used by the pope to authenticate documents such as papal bulls. It is a cross inscribed in two concentric circles. Pope Leo IX was the first pope to use it.

Rota of Pope Alexander III, AD 1175

The four inner quadrants contain: "Petrus", "Paulus", the pope's name, and the pope's ordinal number. The pope's autograph or motto is sometimes inscribed between the concentric circles.

A rota was also used by monarchs for the authentication of documents and diplomas.^[a]

See also

• Catholicism portal

• Signum manus
• Tughra
• Khelrtva

Notes

1. For instance, it was used by William I and William II of Sicily.^[1]