Description
Adoption
4 November 1875 (written into the Constitution, 151 years). The Constitution forbids changing it.
Designed byAttributed to King George Tupou I and a missionary (1875).
Design & Symbolism
Specs plus what each color and emblem means on this flag — tap an element to reveal its meaning.
Colors
Red#C10000 · Pantone 186 CRed depicts the blood of Christ and his sacrifice on the cross.
White#FFFFFFWhite depicts purity; the red cross, the kingdom's Christian faith.
Symbols & elements
Red crossThe cross in the canton marks the Christian faith, central to Tongan identity. The constitution states that the flag may never be changed.
Construction details
Proportions 1:2. A red field with a white canton at the upper hoist bearing a red Greek cross.
Construction sheet
Etiquette & protocol
How the flag should be used and displayed with respect.
Specific rules — Tonga
- The kingdom's Constitution provides that the flag may never be altered.
- It flies on public buildings and at official ceremonies.
Common conventions
- Keep the flag clean and never let it touch the ground.
- Never fly a torn or faded flag — repair or replace it.
- Illuminate the flag if it stays up at night.
- Never use the flag as clothing, packaging or advertising.
- Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, not in the trash.
Did you know?
The kingdom's Constitution formally forbids changing its flag, set in law since 1875.
