Welsh Flag - Draig Goch
Welsh Flag
The Welsh flag, known in Welsh as Y Ddraig Goch (“The Red Dragon”), is one of the most distinctive national flags in the world. It features a red dragon passant on a green and white field and is a powerful symbol of Welsh identity, history, and pride.
Design and Appearance
The flag consists of:
- A red dragon at the centre.
- A white/grey upper field.
- A green lower field.
The bold red dragon stands out strongly against the green and white background, making the flag instantly recognisable.
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Historical Origins
The red dragon has ancient roots in Wales. Its origins are often linked to:
- Roman military standards, which used dragon symbols.
- Early Celtic mythology, where dragons symbolised power and protection.
- Welsh legend, particularly the tale of Lludd and Llefelys, in which a red dragon defeats a white dragon, symbolising the victory of the Welsh over invaders.
The dragon later became associated with Welsh princes and monarchs, including Cadwaladr, a 7th-century king of Gwynedd.
Adoption as the National Flag
Although the dragon had been a Welsh symbol for centuries, the current design of the flag was officially adopted in 1959. Before this, several versions of the dragon were used in different contexts, including royal badges and military emblems.
Meaning and Symbolism
- Red Dragon: Strength, courage, and the enduring spirit of the Welsh people
- Green and White: Colours traditionally associated with the Tudor dynasty, which had Welsh origins
Together, these elements represent Wales’s long history, resilience, and cultural heritage.
Modern Use and Significance
Today, the Welsh flag is flown:
- On public buildings across Wales
- During national celebrations such as St David’s Day
- At sporting events, where it is a strong symbol of national pride
The flag plays an important role in expressing Welsh identity both within the United Kingdom and internationally. The flag has won many awards for the best flag, in best flag competitions.
Welsh Flag of Patagonia
The Welsh colony in Patagonia, Argentina known as Y Wladfa began in 1865. It occurred mainly along the coast of the Chubut Province in Patagonia. The Welsh Argentine community is centred on Gaiman, Trelew and Trevelin. The flag is the Argentinian flag with a Welsh dragon in the centre.
Why is Welsh Flag not in the Union Jack?
The official answer is that it is! The Welsh flag colours, nor the dragon appears on the Union Flag because when the first Union Flag was created in 1606, the Principality of Wales by that time was already united with England and was no longer a separate principality. However, in 1959 Queen Elizabeth announced that ‘only the Red Dragon on a green and white flag should be flown on government buildings in Wales’. Sounds a bit like 'gobbledygook' but let's remember, the Welsh flag has just been voted the best flag in the world...
Conclusion
The Welsh flag is far more than a national emblem. With its striking red dragon and deep historical roots, it represents centuries of legend, struggle, and pride. As a symbol of Wales, it continues to unite people and celebrate the country’s unique culture and history.
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