Royal Standard of Scotland facts for kids
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| Name | Royal Standard of Scotland Lion Rampant of Scotland Banner of the King of Scots |
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| Proportion | 5:4 |
| Adopted | Circa 1222 |
| Design | Red (Gules) lion rampant with blue (Azure) claws and tongue, within a red double border having a motif of alternating heraldic lilies, on a yellow (Or) field. |
The Royal Standard of Scotland is a special flag. It is also called the Lion Rampant of Scotland. This flag is the official banner of the Scottish Royal Arms.
Historically, the Kings of Scots used this flag. It is different from Scotland's national flag, the Saltire. The Royal Standard has very strict rules about who can use it. Only certain high-ranking officials can fly it. They use it when they represent the King or Queen in Scotland. You can also see it at royal homes in Scotland when the King or Queen is not there.
What is the Lion Rampant?
The Lion Rampant is a lion standing on its back legs. It has its claws out, ready to strike. This design is a very old symbol of Scottish royalty.
The first time we know the Lion Rampant was used as a royal symbol was in 1222. This was during the time of King Alexander II. Later, during the reign of King Alexander III (1249–1286), the flag got its fancy border. This border is a double line with lily shapes.
This lion symbol was on the shield of the royal coat of arms for the ancient Kingdom of Scotland. The King of Scots used this flag until 1603. That year, King James VI of Scotland also became King of England and Ireland. This event is known as the Union of the Crowns.
Since 1603, the Lion Rampant has been part of the royal symbols for British monarchs. It helps to show that Scotland is part of the United Kingdom. You can still see it today on the Royal Standard of the United Kingdom. Even though its use is limited, the Royal Standard of Scotland is still a very famous symbol of Scotland.
Scotland's National Flag: The Saltire
The Flag of Scotland is also known as the Saint Andrew's Cross. Most people call it The Saltire. This is the official national flag of Scotland.
The Saltire is the flag that everyone can fly. It shows their loyalty to Scotland and their Scottish identity. The Scottish Government flies the Saltire on its buildings every day. It flies from 8 AM until sunset, with a few exceptions. For example, it might not fly on certain United Kingdom national holidays.
Images for kids
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Royal Banner flying above Holyrood Palace
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Back of Alexander II's Great Seal, showing the Lion rampant on his horse and shield.
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The Royal Banner of Scotland flying above Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh.
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See also
In Spanish: Estandarte Real de Escocia para niños
