Mauritania Flag
National Flag of Mauritania
By Mohamadou Moctar · Last updated
What does the Mauritania flag mean?
Green and the crescent‑star are classic Islamic symbols, representing faith and the Sahara’s fertility. Gold represents the desert sands and hope. The red stripes added in 2017 symbolize the blood shed and sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and national defense.
Mauritania Flag Display
Quick facts
- Adopted:
- 12 October 2017 (original version from 1 April 1959)
- Aspect Ratio:
- 2:3
- Capital:
- Nouakchott
- Population:
- Approximately 4.8 million (2023)
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Shop now on AmazonMauritania Flag - Description
Mauritania’s national flag features a deep green field bearing a gold upward-pointing crescent and star, framed by horizontal red stripes at the top and bottom. The green and gold reflect Islamic tradition and the desert, while the red stripes commemorate national sacrifice and unity.
Mauritania Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
Mauritania Flag - History and Origins
Originally adopted on 1 April 1959 when Mauritania declared itself an autonomous republic, the flag remained unchanged at independence in November 1960. Following a referendum on 5 August 2017, red bands were added to the top and bottom in October 2017, to honor citizens' sacrifices. The new version was first raised on Independence Day, 28 November 2017.
Mauritania Flag - Design Elements
A green rectangle (60% height) with a centered gold crescent and star, flanked by red horizontal bands each covering 20% of flag height. Precise measurements and shade codes (CMYK, Pantone, RGB, HEX) are defined by law, ensuring consistent reproduction.
Mauritania Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
While flag law is embedded in constitutional reforms, display is customary on government buildings and Independence Day. National etiquette requires flags to be clean, flown at sunrise to sunset, and lowered to half‑mast during mourning. Desecration or misuse is discouraged and subject to public reproach.
Further reading: Flag of Mauritania on Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Mauritania Flag represent?
Green and the crescent‑star are classic Islamic symbols, representing faith and the Sahara’s fertility. Gold represents the desert sands and hope. The red stripes added in 2017 symbolize the blood shed and sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and national defense.
When was the Mauritania Flag adopted?
12 October 2017 (original version from 1 April 1959)
What is the aspect ratio of the Mauritania Flag?
The Mauritania flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3.