Important Flags You'll See in Barcelona

In Barcelona, you may come across multiple flags but they all have similar colors and designs, it can be confusing especially when some are more politically charged than others. Whether you’re on a return trip or coming to Barcelona for the first time, it can be helpful to know the difference between these flags to better understand the history of the region.

La Senyera

This is the official flag of Catalonia. The term “senyera” is actually Catalan for flag but it is generally used to refer to this particular flag. The red and gold stripes represent the coat of arms of the Crown of Aragon; rulers over the area during the Medieval period. The flag is believed to date back to the 9th century and is one of the oldest still flown in Europe. The Senyera is far less controversial than most of the other flags on this list as is predominately just a symbol of the Catalonian region and its culture.

(Photo source: Wikipedia, http://goo.gl/qYbdBf)

La Estelada Blava (blue)

Traveling around you will quickly notice that this is the most common of the Barcelona flags. It is the symbol of the separatist movement in Catalonia and represents their desire to gain independence from the rest of Spain. Although the blue triangle and white star are said to be inspired by the Cuban flag, Catalonia’s independence movement dates back to the War of the Spanish Succession when Catalonia lost much of its autonomy and rights.

(Photo source: Wikipedia, http://goo.gl/CafN1W)

(Photo source: Wikipedia, http://goo.gl/YOxQFB)

La Rojigualda

The official flag of Spain, it has the red and gold stripes of the other three and also features the coat of arms of the Spanish royal crown. In 1843, Queen Isabella II made it the country’s official flag. You will probably see this flag the least as you walk around Barcelona due to the politics at play here (not to mention, the Catalan people have a very Catalonia-specific sense of pride).

If you want to travel around the city itself with an experienced guide to see all the different flags we have, click HERE to learn more about our Barcelona City Tours: Private Vehicle “BCN Insider” 4-hour!

Text: Caroline Guardabassi

Important Flags You’ll See in Barcelona

La Rojigualda

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