Country Flags That Feature a Dragon

A dragon is a mythical creature that is believed to spit fire and have the ability to fly. Dragons are also storied to be powerful and to symbolize strength. In battle shields and flags, they have historically been used to intimidate opponents. Today, the countries of Bhutan, Wales, and Malta all have flags that feature dragons.

Bhutan

A dragon is prominently displayed on the flag of Bhutan on the middle of the flag's orange and yellow stripes. The orange stripes symbolize the spiritual culture of Buddhism while the yellow color represents traditions. A close look at the dragon reveals that it is donned in a special garment called the Kabney. The scarf is white to symbolize the purity of the actions and the thoughts of the citizens of Bhutan irrespective of their race. There are jewels present on the dragon which symbolize the wealth that Bhutan possesses and the security of the country. The dragon appears to be snarling, which is a sign that the people are willing to defend their country against invaders.

Wales

The Welsh flag has a red dragon that is prominently displayed behind the white and green colors. Historically, it represents the times of King Henry VII who used the dragon as the battle symbol during the Battle of Bosworth Field. The Romans are believed to have brought the dragon symbol with them during their occupation of Britain. In addition, it was the symbol of the monarchy and other ancient leaders during the Romano-British era. The symbol was not used widely in Wales during this time since it represented the British authority and was used in the coat of arms and by the armies of the English crown. Under King Henry V, the battalions prominently displayed the red dragon during battles such as the one at Agincourt. During the invasion of England led by Henry Tudor, it was displayed on Saint Paul’s Cathedral after a victory parade throughout Wales. Green and white colors were later added as the reign of King Henry V progressed.

Malta

A very close look at the Maltese flag will reveal an unexpected dragon. The flag is made up of two colors, white and red, with a small cross at the top corner. At the center of the small cross is a very small depiction of a dragon being fought by Saint George. Since it is believed that Saint George had killed a dragon, it is was awarded to Malta with the George Cross for bravery and excellent assistance towards the allies during the Second World War. The island nation had played a vital role by providing land that was used by the allies as forward operating bases and trauma hospitals for wounded allied soldiers. Saint George is celebrated as a saint who had refused to recant his Christian beliefs and was put to death by the Romans. He is also believed to be the patron of the Mediterranean Islands of Malta.