Flag of Vatican City

Europe

518

1929

VA | 1:1

Symbolism

Yellow and white represent the gold and silver keys of Saint Peter. The crossed keys represent the Papacy's spiritual and worldly power, and the papal tiara tops them.

History

Adopted on June 7, 1929, when Pope Pius XI signed the Lateran Treaty with Italy, establishing Vatican City as an independent state.

Construction

A 1:1 ratio (square). A vertical bicolour of yellow (hoist) and white (fly), with the crossed keys of Saint Peter and the papal tiara centered in the white band.

Color Meanings

yellow: The gold key of Saint Peter representing spiritual power

white: The silver key of Saint Peter representing worldly power

Country Facts

Population: 518

<0.1% of Europe
Capital: Vatican City
Languages: Italian, Latin
Continent: Europe
Landlocked: Yes
Borders: Italy
ISO 3166-1: VA

Flag Identification

Adopted: June 7, 1929
Proportions: 1:1
Total Colors: 3
Key Symbols: Emblem

Influences

Lateran Treaty established sovereign state

Flags with resemblance

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

Brunei

Related flags

Flag Protocol

One of only two square national flags in the world
The coat of arms must be centered in the white band

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