The Flag of Europe, often called the European Flag, is the common emblem used by both the Council of Europe and the European Union to represent the continent of Europe.
Description
The design shows twelve golden, five-pointed stars arranged in a circle set against a blue field (commonly described as azure). The stars are upright and evenly spaced, forming a ring that is centred on the flag's field.
Meaning and use
- The number of stars—twelve—is generally understood as a symbol of completeness, unity or perfection rather than a reference to a specific number of countries.
- Originally introduced as a continental emblem, the flag is widely used in official and informal contexts across institutions and public events in Europe.
History
The symbol was created in 1955 and that same year was officially adopted by the Council of Europe as a pan-European symbol. Over time the European Union also adopted the emblem for its own use, and it is now commonly associated with both organisations.