The Madrid flag is a symbol of the capital city of Spain. It is composed of seven white stars and a coat of arms on a crimson background. The flag bears a lot of significance to the people of Madrid as it represents their identity and history.
History
The Madrid flag has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. During this time, the city was under the rule of King Alfonso VI, who established Madrid as the capital city of Spain in 1085.
The king granted Madrid its coat of arms, which consisted of seven white stars and a bear standing on a strawberry tree. This coat of arms was later incorporated into the Madrid flag.
Meaning
The seven white stars on the Madrid flag represent the constellation Ursa Minor or Little Bear. This constellation is also known as La Osa Menor in Spanish, which means “the smaller bear.” The bear standing on a strawberry tree in the coat of arms represents an ancient legend about the founding of Madrid.
According to legend, two knights named Don Rodrigo and Don Vellido fought over who would rule the newly conquered territory where Madrid now stands. They decided to settle their dispute with a duel, and Don Vellido emerged victorious. As he was about to kill his opponent, he was attacked by a bear that had been drawn to the area by the scent of strawberries growing on nearby trees.
Don Rodrigo saw this as a sign from God and spared Don Vellido’s life. He then decided to name the city after this event, calling it “Magerit,” which means “place with many streams” in Arabic.
Symbolism
The crimson background on the Madrid flag represents strength and courage. It is also associated with bloodshed and sacrifice, reminding people that freedom comes at a cost.
The seven stars represent perfection and completeness. They are arranged in a U-shape to symbolize the constellation Ursa Minor, which is also known as the “Little Dipper.” This constellation is visible all year round from Madrid and has been used for navigation since ancient times.
The bear on the strawberry tree in the coat of arms represents Madrid’s connection to nature and its appreciation for the environment. It also symbolizes the city’s resilience and determination to overcome obstacles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Madrid flag is a symbol of the city’s rich history, identity, and values. Its design incorporates elements that represent Madrid’s connection to nature, its determination to overcome challenges, and its appreciation for perfection and completeness. The flag serves as a reminder of Madrid’s past and present, inspiring its citizens to strive towards a brighter future.