Symbolism
The red castle with a golden key represents the fortress of Gibraltar and its strategic key to the Mediterranean. The white field reflects peace and neutrality in heraldic tradition. The design derives from the coat of arms granted to the city by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1502.
History
The flag dates to Gibraltar's coat of arms granted in 1502 and was adapted as a white flag bearing the arms. It was formally established as the territory's flag in the 20th century and remains unchanged under British sovereignty.
Construction
A 1:2 ratio white field with a red castle and golden key centered.
Color Meanings
red: The fortress and British sovereignty since 1704
white: Peace and the field of the arms
gold: The key to the Strait of Gibraltar
Country Facts
- Continent
- Europe
- Landlocked
- No
- Borders
- ISO 3166-1
- GI
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- November 8, 1982
- Proportions
1:2
- Total Colors
- 2
- Key Symbols
- Emblem, Weapon
Influences
Coat of arms granted 1502
British White Ensign derivative
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The castle and key must appear centered when used as a banner of the arms
- Flown alongside the Union Jack on the Rock of Gibraltar
Practice
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