Cambodia Flag Meaning: Angkor Wat, Blue & Red Explained
Cambodia’s national flag uses blue-red-blue horizontal bands with a white depiction of Angkor Wat in the centre. The temple is one of the country’s strongest symbols of Khmer civilization and national identity.
What is shown on Cambodia’s flag?
The central white emblem is Angkor Wat, the monumental temple complex built during the Khmer Empire.
Why is Angkor Wat on the flag?
Cambodian government material describes Angkor Wat as a symbol of the soul and prestige of the Khmer nation. Its use on the flag links the modern state with Cambodia’s ancient civilization.
What does the flag look like?
The flag has three horizontal bands: blue, red and blue. The central red band is twice the height of either blue band, and Angkor Wat appears in white in the centre.
What do blue and red represent?
Traditional Cambodian flag explanations associate blue with the monarchy and red with the nation, while white is linked with religion.
Why is the temple white?
The white temple creates strong contrast against the broad red centre band and reinforces the traditional connection between white and religion.
Is Angkor Wat unique on a national flag?
Cambodia is highly unusual in using a detailed monumental building as the central device on its national flag.
What does the Constitution say?
Article 6 of Cambodia’s Constitution establishes the national flag and refers to the official design in the constitutional annex.
Quick facts
| Central emblem | Angkor Wat |
|---|---|
| Colors | Blue, red, white |
| Band relationship | 1:2:1 |
| Constitutional status | Article 6 and Annex I |
