History of the Austrian flag

The roots of today's Austrian flag date back to the 13th century. The coat of arms of the respected Babenberg Henry II Jasomirgott is considered to be the origin of this symbolism. A significant moment in Austria's history was its elevation to a duchy in 1156, at which time the single-headed eagle coat of arms adorned the image. This unique emblem was later replaced by the striking red-white-red banded shield, marking a turning point in heraldry and presenting this remarkable color combination for the first time.

The legend of the bandage shield tells of the siege of Acre during the Third Crusade (1189-1191), in which the courageous Duke Leopold V of Babenberg also took part. After the battle, his robe was soaked in blood, except for a white stripe - the later "bandage" - where his sword belt ran. This symbol of blood and bravery became the basis of an important Austrian legend that still shapes the history of the country today.

The red-white-red flag was already used on various occasions in medieval Austria. Despite their temporary neglect, the colors remained on the breastplate of the imperial eagle of the Habsburgs. In 1786, Emperor Joseph II adopted these colors as the naval flag, but official occasions continued to be marked with the imperial colors black and yellow. It was not until the end of the monarchy in 1918 that the red-white-red design became the official flag of the Republic of Austria. Despite their rule, the Habsburg dynasty also used the red-white-red symbol, which continued to serve as a symbol of identification and representation of the dynasty during the Holy Roman Empire and the Austrian Empire.

With the revolutionary changes of the 19th century, the red-white-red flag began to take on a deeper meaning. During the March Revolution of 1848, the flag was officially recognized as the flag of the archduchies of the time. This marked a turning point at which the colors no longer merely represented the dynasty, but became a national symbol of unity and cohesion.

The beginning of the 20th century brought further changes. During the National Socialist era, the Austrian flag was replaced by the swastika flag, and it was not until the liberation in 1945 that Austria regained its independence and the red-white-red tricolor once again took center stage. The flag stood for the return to freedom and democracy and symbolized hope for a better future.