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Flag of The Netherlands

Europe
18.1M
1937
Flag of The Netherlands
NL | 2:3

Official Palette

Symbolism

Red represents bravery, strength, and valor. White represents peace and honesty. Blue represents vigilance, truth, loyalty, and justice.

History

The oldest tricolor still in continuous use. Originally orange, white, and blue (the 'Prince's Flag' of William of Orange), the orange was replaced by red in the 17th century for better visibility at sea.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio. Three equal horizontal bands of red, white, and blue.

Color Meanings

red: Bravery, strength, and valor
white: Peace and honesty
blue: Vigilance, truth, loyalty, and justice

Country Facts

Population
18.1M

1.9% of Europe

Capital
Amsterdam
Languages
Dutch
Continent
Europe
Subregion
Benelux
Landlocked
No
Borders
Flag of Belgium BelgiumFlag of Germany Germany
ISO 3166-1
NL

Flag Identification

Adopted
February 19, 1937
Proportions

2:3 (≈1.500)

23
Total Colors
3
Primary Layout
Horizontal bands

Influences

Prinsenvlag (Prince's Flag)

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs — compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

Flag Protocol

  • The oldest tricolor still in continuous use
  • An orange pennant is added to the flag on birthdays of the Royal House

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