by Laura Beth Caldwell

Created on: February 15, 2010

The royal flag of Scotland, also known as the Royal Standard of Scotland, is in actuality one of two flags representing Scotland. Featuring a red rampant lion on a yellow background, surrounded by stylized red lilies, the grandeur of this flag echoes nearly a millennium of Scottish pride.

The royal flag of Scotland can be traced back to medieval times with the reign of William I, also known as William the Lion. The first recorded use of the rampant lion as a royal emblem is with William's son, Alexander II in 1222. The image of a lion standing on its hind legs in an attack stance was featured on the royal coat of arms during this period. Alexander III incorporated a border of red stylized lilies, known as fleur-de-lis, during his reign in 1249-1286.

Use of the royal flag of Scotland is limited to that of the monarchy. In 1672 an Act of Parliament restricted the use of the royal flag by prohibiting citizens from displaying the royal banner. Any use of the royal flag, other than by the monarchy, became an offense. In 1707 the monarchy of England and Scotland were united making the heir to the throne of England the sovereign of Scotland as well. In 1934 King George V recognized the importance of allowing Scottish citizens to show their patriotism at soccer matches. He therefore permitted the use of hand-held royal flags at these sporting events. However, displaying a royal flag on a flagpole or building remains a restricted right of the monarchy.

The images used in the royal flag of Scotland are symbols of ancient heraldry and valor. The rampant lion, depicted in red with a blue tongue and claws on a yellow background, is a representation of dauntless courage. It symbolizes Scotland's struggle for nationalism and her fierce sense of patriotic loyalty. It should be noted that the blue dye used in the tongue and claws of the lion is often omitted by flag makers simply due to the cost of printing. The classic border of red stylized lilies is a symbol of purity, thereby representing the genuine pride of the Scotsman. A pride undiluted by centuries of foreign influence and assimilation.

The royal flag of Scotland should be differentiated from the national flag, also known as Saint Andrew's Cross. This flag portrays a white X-shaped cross, or Saltire, on a blue background, and is used as the common flag of Scotland. As with the royal flag, the national flag is rich in legend. The Saltire cross is said to represent the X-shaped cross on which the Apostle Andrew, Scotland's patron saint, was martyred. Images depicting the martyrdom of the Apostle Andrew on such a cross first appeared in Scotland in 1180. Though less dramatic than the rampant lion of the royal flag, the national flag is none-the-less a recognized and respected emblem of Scotland.

The royal flag of Scotland continues in use today, restricted by the monarchy as a royal emblem. It is displayed on royal buildings such as Dover House in London and St. Andrew's House in Edinburgh. However, its rich symbolism and pride is enjoyed by all, thanks to King George V, at soccer matches the world over.

Learn more about this author, Laura Beth Caldwell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.