The Royal Standard of the United Kingdom, also known as the Royal Standard Forty Green, is the official flag of the British monarch. It is flown at royal residences and other locations where the monarch is present. The Royal Standard is a symbol of the monarch's presence and is an important part of British pageantry and tradition.
History of the Royal Standard
The Royal Standard has a long and complex history, with its origins dating back to the medieval period. The first recorded use of a royal standard was in the 12th century, during the reign of King Henry II. Over the centuries, the design of the Royal Standard has undergone several changes, with different monarchs adding their own coats of arms and symbols to the flag. The current design of the Royal Standard, which features the coats of arms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, was adopted in the 19th century.
Design of the Royal Standard
The Royal Standard is a rectangular flag with a width-to-length ratio of 1:2. It features the coats of arms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, which are arranged in a specific pattern. The flag has a blue field, with the cross of Saint George (the patron saint of England) in the upper left corner. The cross of Saint Andrew (the patron saint of Scotland) is in the upper right corner, and the cross of Saint Patrick (the patron saint of Ireland) is in the lower left corner. The flag also features the royal crown, which is positioned in the center of the flag.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Coat of Arms of England | Features three lions passant guardant |
| Coat of Arms of Scotland | Features a red lion rampant on a gold field |
| Coat of Arms of Ireland | Features a gold harp on a blue field |
Protocol for Flying the Royal Standard
The Royal Standard is flown according to strict protocol, which is set by the British government. The flag is flown at royal residences, such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, when the monarch is in residence. It is also flown at government buildings, such as the Houses of Parliament, on certain occasions. The Royal Standard is never flown at half-mast, as it is considered a symbol of the monarch’s presence and authority.
Special Occasions
The Royal Standard is flown on special occasions, such as the monarch’s birthday, the anniversary of their accession to the throne, and during state visits. It is also flown during royal weddings and other important events. The flag is an important part of British pageantry and is often flown during ceremonial events, such as the Trooping the Colour ceremony, which takes place annually in June.
The Royal Standard is also flown at Commonwealth Games and other international sporting events, where it is used to represent the United Kingdom. The flag is an important symbol of British identity and is recognized around the world as a symbol of the British monarch's authority and presence.
What is the significance of the Royal Standard?
+The Royal Standard is a symbol of the British monarch's authority and presence. It is flown at royal residences, government buildings, and other locations where the monarch is present.
How is the Royal Standard designed?
+The Royal Standard features the coats of arms of England, Scotland, and Ireland, which are arranged in a specific pattern. The flag has a blue field, with the cross of Saint George in the upper left corner, the cross of Saint Andrew in the upper right corner, and the cross of Saint Patrick in the lower left corner.
When is the Royal Standard flown?
+The Royal Standard is flown at royal residences, government buildings, and other locations where the monarch is present. It is also flown on special occasions, such as the monarch's birthday, the anniversary of their accession to the throne, and during state visits.
In conclusion, the Royal Standard Forty Green is an important symbol of the British monarch’s authority and presence. Its design and protocol for flying are steeped in history and tradition, and it continues to play an important role in British pageantry and ceremony. Whether flown at royal residences, government buildings, or during special occasions, the Royal Standard is a powerful symbol of British identity and a reminder of the monarch’s enduring presence and authority.
