The Flag of Austria reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Flag of Austria

The Flag of Austria has three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red.

The flag was adopted by Frederick II Babenberg as Duke of Austria in the 13th century.

According to tradition, Frederick was involved in a fierce battle during the Crusades. After the battle his white surcoat was completely drenched in blood. When he removed his belt the cloth underneath was untouched by the blood. So taken was he by the singular sight he adopted the colours and scheme as his banner.

The Austrian flag is said to be the oldest national flag design in the world.

The Civil Flag of Austria was adopted on May 1, 1945.

The State Flag contains the national arms in the centre.

External links

• Flags of the World: Austria
• The Symbols of Austria

National flags

List of national flags | Gallery of national flags

List of national coats of arms

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