Our Seal explained

Let's explain their symbolism in detail:

Circular latin text

The latin text starting at the left side "per scientiam ad sapientiam" means "from science to wisdom". According to the DIKW (Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom) principle it means, that the way to wisdom is paved by science, which comprises data gathering, extracting the relevant information and compiling knowledge out of it.

On the lower end you can find the abbreviation IPPD in lower case letters and the official year the IPPD incorporated: 2026. Although the IPPD was founded as a non for profit already in 2024, we use the date of incorporation in the seal.

Gothic background

A gothic background can be found on many seals of Universities founded in the 13th to 16th centuries. While there is a similarity to ecclestial architecture, similar architectural principles are found in secular buildings like city halls, as well. The main meaning ,in deed, is a more secular one: the sublime architecture represents the generosity of the founder (typically the kings or emperors), which is a prerequisite to attract outstanding scholars, provide excellent science and high quality education.

The statues

In the center you find Hygieia, the greek goddess. She's the patron saint of pharmacists and namesake for the word hygiene. In the hands you find two interesting elements: The snake and the flat poison bowl; two elements still used as insignia of pharmaceutical emblems: As pharmacists we know how to handle very potent compounds and according to Theophrastus von Hohenheim (also known as Paracelsus), it's the dose that makes a poison being poisonous. Just like Hygieia as pharmacists we should aquire and use all our comprehensive knowledge and understanding of compounds (let me add formulations, processes and products) for the benefit of our patients.

On her right side you find Galenos, namesake of Galenics. Galenos of Pergamon was -amongst other- a greek physician, medical researcher and contributed to several scienitifc disciplines; in particular to pharmacology and logic and probably also mechanics. He compiled a compendium on dignostics and therapeutic remedies Therfore, he's often depicted with mortar and pestle, another two insignia of pharmacists.

To her left is none other than Pythagoras, who can be recognized by his right angle triangle. He is depicted as symbol for natural scineces; mathematics, statistics and geometry in particular.

While both Pythagoras and Galenos contribute theis skills to Hygieia, the culmination of knowledge leads to wisdom, that ops it all: The Owl as bird of wisdom resides in the tower, yes can also fly around and spread that wisdom all around the globe.

Flowers

Intertwined with the inscription and besides the gothic building, you can find flowers as symbol for growth, flourishing, and blooming.