Flag of Spain

This national flag consists of three horizontal stripes in red, yellow, and red, with the central yellow band being twice the height of each red band. Positioned on the yellow stripe towards the hoist side is the national coat of arms, which includes a crowned shield supported by two columns.

The primary colors are derived from the traditional heraldry of the Crown of Aragon and the Kingdom of Castile. Within the coat of arms, the five distinct sections of the shield represent the historical kingdoms of Castile, León, Aragon, Navarre, and Granada. Flanking the shield, the Pillars of Hercules symbolize the Strait of Gibraltar and the nation's maritime heritage, inscribed with the Latin motto 'Plus Ultra.' A central escutcheon featuring three fleurs-de-lis represents the reigning House of Bourbon-Anjou.

Originating in 1785, the red and yellow scheme was selected by King Charles III to serve as a naval ensign, replacing the white flags that were common among Bourbon-ruled territories. This design survived various political transitions, despite a brief period from 1931 to 1939 when the Second Republic adopted a red, yellow, and purple tricolor. The present iteration was formally regulated on October 28, 1981, following the transition to a constitutional monarchy.