Flag of Croatia

Croatia Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesHR, HRV, 191
Official NameRepublic of Croatia
ContinentEurope
CapitalZagreb
Government TypeParliamentary republic
CurrencyCroatian Kuna (HRK)
Calling Code+385
Member OfUnited Nations, European Union, NATO, World Trade Organization
PopulationApprox. 4 million (as of 2023)
Total Area56,594 square kilometers
Highest PointDinara (1,831 meters or 6,007 feet)
Lowest PointAdriatic Sea (0 meters or 0 feet)
GDP Per CapitaApprox. $15,000 (as of 2023)
Life ExpectancyApprox. 78 years (as of 2023)
Internet TLD.hr

Croatian National Anthem

Lijepa naša domovino (Our Beautiful Homeland)

Our beautiful homeland,
O so fearless and gracious.
Our fathers’ ancient glory,
May you be blessed forever.
Dear, you are our only glory,
Dear, you are our only one,
Dear, where you are plains,
Dear, where you are mountains.

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Croatian Flag

The flag of Croatia was officially adopted on December 21, 1990, shortly before the country declared independence from Yugoslavia. The flag’s design and colors are deeply symbolic, reflecting Croatia’s history, culture, and national identity.

The flag consists of three horizontal stripes in red, white, and blue, which are traditional Pan-Slavic colors. These colors were chosen to reflect the country’s Slavic heritage and are shared with other Slavic nations. The central feature of the flag is the coat of arms of Croatia, which includes the red and white checkered field, known as the šahovnica, a symbol of Croatia since the 10th century. Above the checkered field are five smaller shields that represent the historical regions of Croatia.

The checkered pattern of the coat of arms is one of the oldest national symbols in Europe, symbolizing the alternating history of division and unity in the Croatian lands. The five shields above the checkered field represent the historical regions from which Croatia emerged: Croatia proper, Dubrovnik, Dalmatia, Istria, and Slavonia.

Since its adoption, the flag of Croatia has become a symbol of national pride and independence. It is a representation of the nation’s long history, its cultural heritage, and the resilience of its people. The flag is prominently displayed across the country, in public buildings, at national events, and in international settings. The design of the flag, with its historical symbols and traditional colors, encapsulates the spirit and identity of the Croatian nation and its journey through history as a sovereign state.