The Flag of Portugal
The flag of Portugal features a unique design with a two-color field split into green on the hoist side and red on the fly side. Centered over the boundary between the colors is the national coat of arms, consisting of a shield (containing five blue shields arranged in a cross, each with five white dots) within a red border adorned with seven gold castles, and a navigational instrument, the armillary sphere, behind it. The unusual 2:3 proportion and the bright colors make it distinct among national flags.
History of The Flag of Portugal
The flag of Portugal as it is known today was officially adopted on June 30, 1911, shortly after the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910, which overthrew the monarchy. The green and red colors were chosen for their connection to the Republican movement in Portugal. The green is said to represent hope, while the red symbolizes the blood of those who died serving the nation. The central emblem, the coat of arms, has medieval origins and has undergone various modifications over the centuries. The armillary sphere, a navigational tool, highlights Portugal's significant achievements in maritime exploration during the Age of Discoveries. Prior to 1911, Portugal's flag featured the blue and white colors of the House of Braganza, the last royal family before the establishment of the Republic. The transition to the red and green flag marked a new era in Portuguese history, reflecting the change from monarchy to republic and emphasizing the country's rich maritime legacy and its aspirations toward the future.