The 5 Oldest National Flags in Continuous Use Today

Living History: Flags That Pre-Date Modern Nations

While many modern flags were born from 20th-century anti-colonial movements, a handful of national symbols have flown continuously for hundreds of years, tracing their lineage back to medieval crusades and naval empires.

1. Denmark (The Dannebrog) - Circa 1219

Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's oldest continuously used national flag. According to Danish legend, the red banner with a white cross fell from the heavens during the Battle of Lyndanisse in 1219, rallying King Valdemar II's forces to victory.

2. Austria - 1230

Austria's striking red-white-red triband traces back to Duke Leopold V during the Siege of Acre (1191). Legend holds that after fierce combat, his white surcoat was completely drenched in blood except for the white cloth beneath his wide sword belt.

3. Latvia - 1279

Documented in the medieval Rhymed Chronicle of Livonia, the distinctive carmine-red flag with a narrow white stripe is among the world's oldest tribal military banners, resurrected in 1918 upon Latvian statehood.

4. The Netherlands - 1572

Originally the orange-white-blue "Prince's Flag" of William of Orange, the orange band was transitioned to vermilion red in the 17th century for superior visibility at sea against coastal fog. It inspired dozens of world flags, including Russia and South Africa.