Spain Flag

The flag of Spain, commonly called the Rojigualda, has three horizontal bands: red, yellow and red. The yellow band is twice as tall as either red band. The normal proportions are 2:3 (height to length).

The version shown here includes the national coat of arms, offset toward the hoist. The red and yellow naval design dates to 1785; the model of the present coat of arms was published in 1981. These are different milestones in the flag's history.

The red and yellow naval design was selected for visibility at sea. Claims that the colors officially mean blood or wealth should not be treated as the legal definition of the flag.

The coat of arms combines Castile's castle, León's lion, Aragón's red bars, Navarre's chains and Granada's pomegranate. Its central shield carries three fleurs-de-lis. A royal crown and the Pillars of Hercules with the motto Plus Ultra complete the design. Law 33/1981 describes the arms.

On 28 May 1785, Charles III approved separate designs for the navy and merchant shipping. The red-yellow-red naval ensign was the precursor of today's national flag. In 1843, the red and yellow colors were extended to Army flags and standards under Isabella II. Source: Royal Guard history of the flag.

The 1978 Constitution describes the three bands. Law 33/1981 defines the coat of arms, while Law 39/1981 regulates flag use. The official drawing of the current arms was published by Royal Decree 2964/1981, effective on 19 December 1981.