Austria

The flag of Austria consists of three equal sized horizontal bands of the colours (from top) red, white and red. The Austrian flag's proportions are 2:3.

The flag of Austria was baased on the coat of arms of the Babenberg dynasty, dating back to the 13th century AD. The flag is believed to have been invented by Duke Leopold V of Austria during the Siege of Acre. Legend has it that following this battle, the Duke's white surcoat was totally covered in blood. Upon removing his belt, the white section beneath the belt remained unstained, giving rise to the red, white and red design seen on the present day flag of Austria.

The current flag design has been in official use as Austria's national flag since the conclusion of the first world war in 1918, a time at which Austria was reduced to a smaller republic following the defeat of the large and powerful Austro-Hungarian Empire.

The flag of Austria flies