Official Palette
Symbolism
The red-carmine color represents the blood shed for independence, while the white stripe represents peace, truth, and right.
History
One of the oldest flags in the world, dating back to the 13th century. It was adopted as the national flag in 1918, banned during the Soviet era, and reinstated in 1990.
Construction
A 1:2 ratio. A horizontal triband of carmine-red, white, and carmine-red. The white band is narrower (1/5th of the height) than the red bands (2/5ths each).
Color Meanings
red: The blood shed by heroes for independence (Latvian red)
white: Peace, truth, and the sheet used to wrap a wounded leader
Country Facts
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- February 27, 1990
- Proportions
1:2
- Total Colors
- 2
- Primary Layout
- Horizontal bands
Influences
Wounded leader legend from the 13th century
Flags with resemblance
Visually close designs. Compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The white stripe must be exactly 1/5th of the total height
- Must be treated with the utmost reverence as one of the world's oldest flags
Practice
Think you know the flags of Europe? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.