Design
The flag of the German state of Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) consists of two equal horizontal bands, white above red. The civil flag (Landesflagge) displays only these bands. The state flag (Landesdienstflagge) places the state coat of arms at the centre of the bicolour. The coat of arms is a white (silver) horse, known as the Saxon steed, on a red shield. The official proportions of the flag are 3 : 5.
Symbolism
- Colours – The white‑and‑red scheme reflects historic colours associated with the Hanseatic League and the medieval Saxon tradition.
- Coat of arms – The white horse is the heraldic emblem of the historic Duchy of Saxony and has been used by the region since the Middle Ages.
History
The current bicolour design derives from earlier regional flags that employed white and red. The civil flag was officially adopted on 13 May 1951. The state flag incorporating the coat of arms was subsequently approved on 4 December 1952. Both flags replaced earlier provisional designs used during the Allied occupation after World War II.
Usage
The plain white‑over‑red bicolour may be displayed by private individuals and organisations as a civil flag. The version bearing the state coat of arms is used by state authorities, governmental buildings, and for official functions. The flag is flown on public holidays, state ceremonies, and at the state’s representative buildings.
Legal status
The flag’s design and usage are regulated by the Lower Saxony state law on symbols (Niedersächsisches Gesetz über die Hoheitszeichen). The law specifies the colours, proportions, and permissible contexts for both the civil and state flags.
