Bavaria
The iconic flag of Bavaria features the famous white and blue lozenge (diamond) pattern — a field of alternating white and blue fusils arranged diagonally. This distinctive pattern, known as the Rautenmuster, dates back to the Wittelsbach dynasty who ruled Bavaria for over 700 years. The lozenges originally appeared on the seal of Count Otto II of Wittelsbach around 1242. Tradition holds that the pattern must begin with white in the corner nearest the flagpole, though in practice variations exist. The simple yet bold geometric design makes it one of the most recognizable subnational flags in the world.
Bavaria is the only German state that calls itself a 'Freistaat' (Free State), a title retained from the abolition of the monarchy in 1918.
Adopted: 1953
