The European flag

Against the background of blue sky, the stars form a circle, symbolising union. The number of stars is fixed, twelve being the symbol of perfection and completeness and bringing to mind the apostles, the sons of Jacob, the labours of Hercules, the months in the year, etc.

From its foundation in 1949 the Council of Europe was aware of the need to give Europe a symbol with which its inhabitants could identify. On 25 October 1955 the Parliamentary Assembly unanimously approved the emblem of a circle of gold stars on a blue background. On 9 December 1955 the organisation's Committee of Ministers adopted the star-studded flag, which was launched officially on 13 December of the same year in Paris.

A symbol for the whole of Europe

In 1983 the European Parliament in turn adopted the flag devised by the Council of Europe and recommended that it become the European Communities' emblem. The European Council gave its approval in June 1985. The European Union's institutions began to use the flag in 1986.

The European flag has since become synonymous with a shared political project which unites all Europeans, transcending their diversity.

History of the European flag

Imagine the European flag

The European flag we know today—a circle of twelve gold stars on a deep blue background—was chosen for its perfect blend of neutrality, timelessness, and simplicity. Its design avoids religious or national symbols, embracing universal ideals of unity and harmony. The number 12, a symbol of perfection and stability, ensures the flag remains unchanged regardless of Europe’s growth. And its clean, elegant design is instantly recognisable and easy to reproduce.

But did you know this iconic flag was nearly completely different? The journey to its final form involved several intriguing alternatives. Let’s explore the fascinating alternative designs that could have represented Europe!

Alternative designs for the European flag

The journey to the European flag’s final design—a circle of twelve gold stars on a serene blue background—this iconic symbol, was filled with creative possibilities and alternative designs, each with its own unique vision for representing Europe’s unity in diversity.

Let’s explore some of the alternative ideas that were considered!

Cross designs

Some of the early ideas featured a gold cross on a blue background, reflecting Europe’s shared Christian heritage.

There were variations too, like single or multiple cross designs, but these were seen as potentially divisive in such a religiously diverse continent.

Stars on different backgrounds

Designs with stars on green, white, or red backgrounds were proposed.

Another concept had stars on a white background, but it felt too similar to existing national flags and lacked uniqueness.

The number of stars

Early designs featured a star for each member state of the Council of Europe (initially 15).

Concerns arose that the number would need to change as new members joined, leading to confusion.

Design by Arsène Heitz

Arsène Heitz, the designer of the final flag, originally proposed a design with a crown of stars surrounding a blue background.

Some designs included religious imagery, like references to the Virgin Mary, but these were set aside to keep the flag secular.

Circle vs. other shapes

Some proposals featured stars arranged in arcs, rows, or patterns other than a circle.

Ultimately, the circle of stars won out for its powerful symbolism of unity and equality, steering clear of any hierarchy.

Colour choices

Different colour combinations, including red, green, and gold, were tested for their visual impact and symbolism.

Blue and gold were selected for their association with peace, harmony, and historical ties to European heraldry.

Curious to see what might have been? Take a closer look at the alternative design proposals for the European flag here

Copyright

Any natural or legal person (‘user') may use the European emblem or any of its elements, subject to the following conditions of use.

Conditions of use

The use of the European emblem and/or any of its elements is allowed, irrespective of whether the use is of a non-profit or commercial nature, unless:

(a) the use creates the incorrect impression or assumption that there is a connection between the user and any of the institutions, bodies, offices, agencies and organs of the European Union or the Council of Europe;

(b) the use leads the public to believe erroneously that the user benefits from the support, sponsorship, approval or consent of any of the institutions, bodies, offices, agencies and organs of the European Union or the Council of Europe;

(c) the use is in connection with any objective or activity which is incompatible with the aims and principles of the European Union or of the Council of Europe, or which would be otherwise unlawful.

Trade mark and related issues

The use of the European emblem in accordance with the conditions in the previous section does not mean consent to registration of the emblem or an imitation thereof as a trade mark or any other IP right. The European Commission ([email protected]) and the Council of Europe ([email protected]) will continue the monitoring of applications for registration of the European emblem or part thereof as (part of) IP rights, in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.