Flag of Moldova

Design and elements

The basic layout reflects three equal vertical bands. The colours are traditionally described as blue (hoist), yellow (centre) and red (fly). The central emblem is the national coat of arms, which sits on the yellow stripe and visually distinguishes the flag from other similar tricolours.

• Tricolour pattern: vertical stripes of three colours.
• Blue: the hoist colour, often associated with liberty and the sky.
• Yellow: the central band, used as the background for the coat of arms.
• Red: the fly colour, commonly representing bravery and strength.

The coat of arms itself includes a heraldic shield element that features a stylised aurochs head surrounded by traditional symbols. Together the emblem and tricolour form the full state flag.

History and origins

The colour scheme is historically linked to the wider Romanian cultural area, where blue–yellow–red tricolours have been in use since the 19th century. The present arrangement with the national coat of arms emerged around the time when Moldova moved toward independence in the early 1990s and was subsequently formalized by national legislation.

Use, protocol and notable facts

The flag serves as the national banner for government institutions and appears at diplomatic missions. Variations and discussions over shades, proportions and the presence of the coat of arms have occurred in public debate; the emblem is the key feature that differentiates Moldova's flag from similar flags in the region. For further reading consult the linked references above.