The Origin of the Portuguese Flag – Shields, Castles, and History
The Origin of the Portuguese Flag – Shields, Castles, and History
The Portuguese flag is one of the most recognisable national symbols in Europe, combining striking colours with historical symbols that tell the story of Portugal’s past. Its green and red background, crowned by a complex coat of arms, is more than just decorative it reflects centuries of history, conquest, and national pride.
The Colours: Green and Red
The green and red colours of the Portuguese flag are relatively modern, officially adopted in 1911 following the establishment of the Portuguese Republic. Some historians suggest that green represents hope, while red symbolizes the blood of those who defended the nation. Others argue that the colors were chosen to distance the new republic from the blue and white of the monarchy.
The Coat of Arms: Shields and Castles
At the center of the flag lies Portugal’s coat of arms, composed of five small blue shields arranged in a cross and seven golden castles surrounding them. Each of these elements carries symbolic weight.
The Shields (Quinas)
The five blue shields are called “quinas” and are often said to represent the five Moorish kings defeated by Portugal’s first king, Afonso I, at the Battle of Ourique in 1139.
Each shield contains five small white dots, which some historians interpret as the five wounds of Christ, linking Portugal’s military victories to divine favor.
The Castles
The seven castles surrounding the shields may symbolise the fortresses that defended Portugal during the Reconquista, the centuries-long campaign to reclaim Iberian lands from Muslim rule.
Another theory suggests they represent the municipalities that originally made up the Kingdom of Portugal, highlighting the unity and territorial integrity of the early nation.
Legacy and National Identity
Together, the green and red background with the intricate coat of arms captures Portugal’s rich history of struggle, faith, and sovereignty. Every time the flag flies over Lisbon, Tomar, or Porto, it is a reminder of a nation that carved its identity through centuries of courage and determination.