Why does Wales have a red dragon on the flag?
THE Welsh flag has become a symbol of national pride for the country, with it’s dragon appearing all over Wales.
Rob Page’s side have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in over 60 years, with supporters desperate to see the likes of Gareth Bale in action in Qatar.
GettyRob Page has led Wales to their first World Cup since 1958[/caption]
ReutersWales captain Gareth Bale scored two goals in the play-off semi-final against Austria[/caption]
They are up against fierce rivals England in group B, with the big showdown scheduled for November 29.
The players will wear a red dragon on their shirt and the reason behind it is very interesting.
Where does the Welsh dragon originate from?
The red dragon originates from an ancient Welsh legend involving a Celtic king named Vortigern.
After finding a place to build his castle on the hills of Dinas Emrys, Vortigen was warned that his plans for the castle were directly above an underground lake, where two dragons were sleeping.
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Upon starting the building, Vortigen came across two dragons, one red, and one white.
After a fierce battle, the red dragon won and has gone on to represent a symbol of Welsh pride and independence.
A later excavation in 1945 found castle ruins and evidence of a lake dating back to Vortigen’s time. Perhaps, dragons aren’t just a myth after all.
Why does Wales have a red dragon on the flag?
The red dragon was depicted in various battles by British soldiers on their way to Rome in the fourth century.
Welsh kings later adopted the emblem to show their authority and power.
Hulton Archive – GettyIvor Allchurch wears the red dragon on his chest in 1957[/caption]
AFP – GettyWales last played at the World Cup in 1958 where Pele’s goal for Brazil knocked them out[/caption]
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The country’s first official use of the flag is thought to be during the thirteenth century, during the Battle of Bosworth Field in England.
Today, the dragon is a symbol of national pride and fearlessness, with the Welsh football team hoping to match it’s meaning at this year’s Qatar World Cup.
Whereas the Welsh rugby team use the Prince of Wales’ feathers as their logo, the football team have adopted the red dragon for the last century and happily make it their monkier.
Wales’ national anthem is also one of the most famous in the world and will be belted out at the World Cup for the first time since 1958.
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