Libya National Flag

The National Transitional Council officially adopted the flag previously used in Libya between 1951 and 1969, as the emblem of the Libyan Republic. It is the one the Libyan protesters carried when they took to the streets in February 2011.

The flag of the Kingdom of Libya was adopted when Libya gained independence in 1951. It consists of a white crescent and star on a triband red-black-green design, with the central black band being twice the width of the outer bands. Each band symbolizes one the three Libyan Provinces: Tripoli, Cyrenaica and Fezzan.

The Sanussi dynasty banner

The Sanussi Order, the main Muslim order that most Libyans followed, was characterized by following of the middle path. During their fight against the Italians, the Libyans waved the black banner of Idris Sanussi, with its white crescent and star in the centre. The crescent and star, universal symbols of Islam, were used in the flag of the Ottoman Empire from 1793, and were chosen as part of the flag design by many of the successor states of the Ottoman Empire. The Emirate of Cyreanica adopted the flag, between 1949 and 1951.

With Libyan independence and the crowning of King Idris, the Sanussi banner became the central part of the Libyan flag.

Flag of Tripolitania

The green color was the color of the original flag of Tripolitania, whilst also representing prosperity in Islam.

The red Band represents Fezzan, and is the symbol of the blood of the Libyan martyrs that was shed during the Italian occupation.

The Libyan national flag is one designed with purpose and originality, reflecting our country’s history and unique character. It is for this reason that it has been taken up by Libyans once again as a sign of our regained independence during the revolution.