1. Revolutionary Roots: A Journey to Independence

Which are the origin of the Italian flag?

In 1797, the green-white-red Tricolore became Italy’s national flag under the Cispadane Republic, a revolutionary state in Emilia-Romagna aimed to switch from the many monarchies ruling the peninsula to a democratic, united country. Influenced by the French Napoleonic campaigns, it symbolized a departure from traditional emblems towards identity and freedom.

The Tricolore retained significance during the 1800s, playing a crucial role in the Risorgimento, the process towards the Italian unification. After the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861, it became the official flag. Legislation in 1925 standardized the national and state flags, while post-World War II, in 1946, marked the official confirmation as the flag of the Italian Republic.

2. Vibrant Colours: Symbolism and Evolution

Which are the Italian flag colours?

The Italian flag features three vertical bands of green, white, and red, with green positioned at the hoist side. These colours are enshrined in Article 12 of the Constitution of the Italian Republic. They were published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale No. 298 on December 27, 1947, coming into force on January 1, 1948.

As the need for more precise descriptions arose, from 2003 to 2006, the colours were described as Bright Green Grass, Milky White and Red Tomato. In 2006 Fern Green, Bright White and Scarlet Red replaced the original names and they continue to be in use today.

	Colour name	RGB	Hex
	Fern Green	0, 140, 69	#008C45
	Bright White	244, 245, 240	#F4F5F0
	Flame Scarlet	205, 33, 42	#CD212A

3. Symbolic Meanings: A Tapestry of Significance

Which is the Italian flag meaning?

The Tricolore goes beyond being a mere combination of colours; each shade holds profound symbolism. Green embodies hope and reflects the beauty of the Italian landscape, white symbolizes faith and purity, and red stands for love, courage, and patriotism.

One popular interpretation links the colours to the geography of Italy itself: white for the snowy Alps, green for the plains and hills, and red for the blood shed during the Italian wars of independence. In a notable speech titled “Il Tricolore” on January 7, 1897, commemorating the centenary of the Tricolore’s adoption, poet Giosuè Carducci passionately delved into the meanings of these colours. He connected them to faith, hope, and the sacrifice of heroes.

4. Affectionate Nickname: Tricolore

What does Tricolore mean?

The endearing nickname “Tricolore” reflects Italians’ warmth and familiarity towards their national flag. Composed of “tri” (three) and “colore” (colour), it encapsulates the essence of the three colours that unite the nation.

5. Distinguishing Flags: Mexico, Ireland, Hungary

What is the difference between Italy’s and Mexico’s flags?

While the Italian and Mexican flags share similarities in their colours, the shades of green and red are different, as slightly different are also the proportions of the rectangles. The most visible difference however is the national coat of arms in the white central band of the Mexican flag, absent in the Italian one. It features an eagle perched on a cactus, holding a serpent in its beak – a symbol in Mexican folklore.

Another necessary distinction is with the Irish flag, where orange replaces red and the Hungarian, which features horizontal stripes, with red on top. The correct orientation of the Italian flag, with green at the top when placed horizontally, is a key detail that sets it apart.

6. National Flag Day: Commemorating Two Centuries of Legacy

What is the National Flag Day? 

In 1997, on the second centenary of the Italian Tricolore, January 7th was declared the National Day of the Flag. The day was called Festa del Tricolore. This annual celebration pays homage to the rich history and enduring symbolism embedded in Italy’s beloved Tricolore, reminding citizens of its profound role in shaping the nation’s identity and unity.

Do you know why Italy is called loke this? Read the story HERE