TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The oldest flags in the world stand as powerful reminders of history, carrying legacies that have lasted through centuries. Each design reflects the cultural roots and identity that nations continue to cherish. More than fabric, these flags remain enduring symbols of pride and unity across generations.
List of the Oldest Flags in the World
While determining the oldest flags in the world sometimes leads to a slightly inaccurate history, Nubia Magazine and Oldest.org revealed the top ten countries for this category, including Denmark, the Netherlands, Argentina, and:
1. Denmark
Denmark has the oldest flag in the world, best known as the Dannebrog, who has defied time since centuries ago. Many believe that the fabric was once dropped from the sky when the battle of 1219 occurred. As a result, King Valdemar II took this heaven sign for his inspiration to win the strenuous war.
2. Scotland
The second-oldest flag in the world, the Scottish Saltire, has been a symbol of perseverance since centuries ago. Scotland’s founding father, King Angus Mac Fergus took the white cross-shaped cloud above the sky as the symbol of victory for the nation. Ultimately, the nation won the battle that took place in 832 CE.
3. Netherlands
The Prinsenvlag of the Netherlands, first introduced in the late 16th century, carries deep historical meaning woven into its fabric. Originating in 1572, its bold horizontal stripes of orange, white, and blue became a defining emblem of Dutch identity. More than just colors, the flag symbolized the nation’s enduring fight for independence.
4. Nepal
With its crimson backdrop and blue-bordered celestial emblems, Nepal’s flag is striking in both design and history. Although the current version was standardized in the 19th century, its origins reach back much further. For centuries, it drew inspiration from traditional banners long used throughout the Himalayan kingdom.
5. United Kingdom
First adopted in 1606, the United Kingdom boasts one of the oldest flags in the world. Its original design symbolized the union of England and Scotland, combining the crosses of Saint Andrew, Saint Patrick, and Saint George. By 1801, the flag had evolved to include Ireland’s place in the union.
6. Chile
In 1817, during its fight for independence from Spain, Chile introduced La Estrella Solitaria (The Lone Star) as its national flag. Featuring a single star alongside blue, white, and red stripes, the design carried powerful meaning. Each element symbolized Chile’s determination to secure freedom and affirm its sovereignty.
7. Argentina
In 1818, Argentina adopted the Sun of May as a powerful emblem of independence. Set against horizontal stripes of light blue and white, the flag carried deep symbolic meaning. Together, its elements reflect the nation’s long struggle and ultimate triumph in gaining freedom.
8. Peru
With its bold red and white vertical stripes, Peru holds one of the oldest flags in the world. Officially adopted in 1825, the design carries deep national symbolism. The red is often seen as the blood of patriots, while the white represents the purity and innocence of freedom.
9. Uruguay
After gaining its independence, Uruguay declared its flag in the year 1828, where nine stripes of blue and white blended together with the Sun of May. Atop of the country’s revolutionary heritage, the design also reflects Uruguay’s connection to the independence movement within the Latin America region.
10. France
Rounding out the list of the oldest flags in the world, France’s Tricolore has stood since 1794, born out of the French Revolution. Its three bold stripes of blue, white, and red carry profound meaning. Together, they embody the enduring ideals of freedom, equality, and fraternity.
The oldest flags in the world are living pieces of history, each one tells a story of struggle, triumph, and enduring identity that continues to unite people across generations. As symbols of freedom, faith, and resilience, these flags remind us that the threads of the past still shape the pride of nations today.
To quench your thirst for history, check also the oldest countries in Europe, and oldest writing systems in the world.
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