Well, we did Spain this month so it seems only logical to hop next door and check out its neighbor. That's right, kids- get out a bottle of port, learn how to spell Eusebio correctly and get ready- because this week, it's Portugal!
Adopted for national and civil usage June 30th, 1911 the current flag of Portugal was the first flag following the fall of the monarchy and the formation of the Republic. The red in the flag represents revolution, while the green in the flag represents a Portuguese explorer, Prince Henry the Navigator. Keeping in the theme of exploration, we find a armillary sphere in the center of the flag- which was an early navigational tool.
Together with the shield, the armillary forms the emblem of Portugal that appears on the Portuguese coat of arms. The armillary represents the importance of Portuguese exploration of the globe, while the seven gold castles in the red outside of the shield represent Portuguese expansion. The blue shields in the center represent King Alphonso Henriques who established Portugal as an independent kingdom.
Ladies and gentlemen-- Portugal! And until next time, remember to keep your flags flying- FREAK or otherwise!
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