Welsh Dragon

On the flag for almost 2,000 years.

The Red Dragon ('Y Ddraig Goch') has been associated with Wales since at least the 7th century. It appears on the modern Welsh flag — adopted officially in 1959 — and is the only national flag of a country in the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth to feature a mythical creature.

Why this animal?

Welsh mythology tells of a red dragon defeating a white dragon (representing the Saxons) in a battle prophesied by Merlin. The red dragon became a rallying symbol for Welsh resistance against English encroachment.

Things to know

·The Welsh flag's design predates the United Kingdom — it's older than the Union Jack.
·The motto 'Y Ddraig Goch Ddyry Cychwyn' translates roughly to 'The Red Dragon leads the way.'
·Despite being on the flag, the Welsh Dragon is NOT included on the UK royal coat of arms.
·Wales does have living national animals too: the red kite (a real raptor) was rescued from near-extinction in Wales in the 20th century.
·Dinosaurs — actual extinct reptiles often described as 'dragons' in folklore — have been excavated in Wales, including a small theropod nicknamed 'the Welsh dragon.'

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