Holy Roman Empire ''War Flag''

By Crusader1307

Designed to be flown and used in combat by Imperial Forces of The Holy Roman Empire, it predates The Imperial Banner by several hundred years. First documented in the 12th Century, The War Flag was a red field flag with a white Greek Cross placed over the entirety of the field (end to end). A “Swallow Tail” extension was affixed at the upper far right portion of the flag. This may also have been a first example of a guidon-style flag/banner. This flag was flown throughout many of The Crusades. The initial design of The War flag remained untouched until the 14th Century. Although not as heavily used by the 15th Century, it still was flown next to The Imperial Banner. Many other Nations and Kingdoms have incorporated this design into their own National colors.