Discover the two nations that share this classic and historic color combination.
The horizontal triband of red, white, and red is a historic and powerful flag design, famously adopted by two sovereign nations: Austria and Lebanon. Although they share the same color arrangement, their unique central symbols and histories tell fascinatingly different stories of ancient battles and modern identity.
Symbolism of the Colors: In both flags, the red stripes are said to represent the blood shed for freedom and the nation. The central white band universally stands for peace and purity. This timeless combination creates a visually balanced and deeply meaningful national emblem.
The flag of Austria is one of the oldest national flags in the world. According to legend, the design dates back to 1191, when Duke Leopold V's white tunic was stained red with blood in battle, leaving only a white stripe where his belt had been. The red and white triband was officially readopted as Austria's national flag in 1945.
Adopted in 1943, the flag of Lebanon features the same red-white-red stripes, but with a prominent green Cedar tree in the center. The red stripes symbolize the blood of martyrs, while the white represents the snow-capped mountains of Lebanon as a symbol of peace. The Cedar of Lebanon is an ancient symbol of the country, representing holiness, eternity, and strength.
The two sovereign countries with a horizontal red-white-red flag are Austria and Lebanon. While both use the same color pattern, Lebanon's flag is distinguished by the green Cedar tree in the center.
The Cedar tree is a powerful symbol for Lebanon, representing strength, resilience, eternity, and peace. The green cedar stands out against the white band, which symbolizes the snow-capped mountains of Lebanon.
The Austrian flag is one of the oldest national flags. Legend attributes its origin to Duke Leopold V of Austria after a fierce battle in 1191. His white surcoat was completely stained with blood, except for the area covered by his belt, creating the iconic red-white-red pattern.
