The Portuguese flag was adopted on June 30, 1911, after years of struggle for the nation's independence. It is a symbol of patriotism and honors the country's Republic.

Description of the Portuguese Flag

The Portuguese flag is divided into two sections: on the left, 1/3 is green, and on the right, the remaining 2/3 are red. Green represents the hope of the people, while red reflects the people's struggle and sacrifice for their nation.

At the line dividing the two colors, the national coat of arms stands out. It features a golden spherical astrolabe, with Portugal's shield overlaid on top. The shield is bordered by a red band where seven golden castles are depicted, while at the center (on a white background) sit five blue shields dotted with white circles.

Symbolism of the Portuguese Flag

· The green band: a new hope for the people, following the republican uprising

· The red band: the courage and blood of the people in their nationalist struggle

· The spherical astrolabe: honoring the legacy of Portugal's maritime explorers

· The seven castles: representing the seven historic Portuguese cities that were reconquered

· The five shields or escutcheons: commemorating the five victories of Afonso Henriques

· The five points: these bezants symbolize the five wounds of Christ the Savior

History of the Flag

13 flags preceded the current design. Portugal experienced foreign domination, particularly through colonial waves of conquest. The current flag was adopted on June 30, 1911, after years of struggle for the nation's independence.