Latvia’s national flag is carmine red with a narrow horizontal white stripe. Its unusual 2:1:2 stripe proportions and dark red shade make it distinct from the similar red-white-red flag of Austria.
What does the Latvian flag look like?
The flag has two broad carmine-red bands separated by a narrower white band. The vertical color proportions are officially 2:1:2, and the overall flag ratio is 1:2.
How old is the Latvian flag?
A red-white-red banner associated with Latvian territory is mentioned in the thirteenth-century Livonian Rhymed Chronicle. The modern national design developed during the Latvian national movement and was drawn in the early twentieth century by artist Ansis Cīrulis.
Modern history
Latvia’s Constitutional Assembly adopted a law on the flag in 1921. After Soviet occupation in 1940, possession and display of the independent Latvian flag were suppressed. It re-emerged during the late-1980s Awakening movement, and its official status was restored on February 27, 1990.
Latvia flag facts
- Colors: carmine red and white
- Stripe proportions: 2:1:2
- Flag ratio: 1:2
- Law adopted: 1921
- Status restored: 1990
Source
Primary reference: President of Latvia — National Symbols.
