What Is the Real Flag of Paris?

By Robert Palmer

Paris, the City of Lights, is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. But have you ever wondered what the real flag of Paris is?

Many people mistakenly believe that the French flag represents Paris, but this is not entirely true. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning behind the real flag of Paris.

The Origins of the Flag

The official flag of Paris, also known as the “Banner of Arms,” dates back to 1358 during the reign of King Charles V. The flag features a vertical red stripe on a white background with a coat of arms in the center. The coat of arms consists of a ship with gold sails on blue water and two silver-colored fish on either side.

Symbolism Behind the Flag

There are several interpretations behind the symbolism represented by the flag. One interpretation suggests that the ship represents commerce and trade since Paris was an important trading center during medieval times. The two fish on either side symbolize prosperity and abundance.

Another theory suggests that the ship represents Saint Genevieve, who is considered to be one of Paris’s patron saints. Legend has it that Saint Genevieve guided a boat upstream to bring supplies to Paris during a time when it was under siege by invaders.

The Use of Red and White Colors

The colors used in the flag also have significant meaning. Red was a common color used in medieval flags and represented bravery and strength. White, on the other hand, represented purity and innocence.

Use in Modern Times

Today, you can still see the Banner of Arms displayed throughout various parts of Paris such as government buildings or during official events like parades or ceremonies. However, it is not as commonly seen as other symbols associated with Paris such as images of the Eiffel Tower or the French flag.

The French Flag

While the French flag does not represent Paris specifically, it is still an important symbol for France as a whole. The flag features three vertical stripes, blue, white, and red, with blue on the left side representing liberty and freedom, white representing equality, and red representing fraternity and brotherhood.

Conclusion

So next time you visit Paris or see images of the city, remember that the real flag of Paris is not the French flag but rather the Banner of Arms. The symbolism behind this historic flag serves as a reminder of Paris’s rich history and cultural significance.