National Flag of Belgium

Proportions: 13:15
Belgian Flag Description:
The Belgian flag consists of three equal sized vertical stripes - the left stripe is black, the middle one is yellow and the right stripe is red.

Belgian Flag Meaning:
The colors of the Belgian flag are based on the coat of arms of the province of Brabant. The vertical stripe design was based on the design of France's flag.

Belgian Flag History:
The present day Belgian flag was adopted on Jan. 23, 1831 after Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830. During a revolution in 1789 the Belgian flag appeared with the same colors, but was designed with the stripes running horizontal.

Interesting Belgian Flag Facts:
If anybody shows public disrespect for the Belgian flag, by stepping on it, tearing it or burning it etc., they could be imprisoned for a period ranging from eight days up to one year - plus a fine.

The official proportions of the Belgian flag are 13:15, referring to the relationship of the width (height) to length. This makes the official Belgian flag virtually square in shape.