Lebanon’s national flag has two red horizontal bands separated by a wider white band containing a green cedar tree. The cedar is one of the country’s oldest and most recognisable symbols.

What does the Lebanese flag look like?

The white middle band is twice the height of either red band. A green cedar tree occupies the centre and touches neither the red stripes nor the edges.

Why a cedar tree?

The cedars of Lebanon have been celebrated since antiquity and are mentioned repeatedly in ancient texts. The tree came to represent endurance, longevity and the Lebanese landscape.

History of the flag

The modern red-white-red cedar flag was adopted in November 1943 during the independence struggle against the French Mandate. Its form is defined in the Lebanese Constitution.

Lebanon flag facts

• Adopted: 1943
• Colors: red, white and green
• National symbol: cedar tree
• Central white band: double width