Austria: Vertical Hoisting of Flags

Österreich

Last modified: 2004-01-29 by marcus schmöger
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• Vertical Hoisting
• Forms of hoisting flags in Germany, Austria and adjacent countries

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• Austria
• Austria: Index of all pages

Vertical Hoisting

ratio variable, commonly around 3:10~, by Zeljko Heimer
[Click for larger view.]

The ratio of the vertical flag is not prescribed (but shown in an accompanying drawing in Album des Pavillons 2000 as close to 3:10~). It is prescribed always to be hoisted from a crossbar, and it is forbidden for the vertical flag to include the coat of arms (though, I could swear I have seen them in use).
Zeljko Heimer, 20 February 2001

One of the biggest problems for vexillologists in Austria is the widespread use of the so-called "Hausfahnen" or "Hängefahnen".  Their ratio not being prescribed, they come in all lengths - up to 20 meters suspended from rooftops. This tradition goes back centuries, the advantage being of course that in land-locked, no-navy Austria there are times without wind in which vertical flags "do show" while horizontal flags do not unfurl.

Since the state flag was regulated in 1984, the vertical flag with an eagle is slowly going out of use, being discouraged by flagmakers.
Peter Diem, 16 August 2002

Note that vertically hanging flags are part of the Central European tradition, of which Austria is the core, and it would be all but logical that these flags would be then used everywhere else around but in Austria. Vertical flags are in frequent use in Bavaria, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia etc. As Dr. Diem says, the tradition goes back centuries, and should not be shunned. And, it should not be a problem for vexillologists. They should (as we should on FOTW) note the usage and practice, compare it with legislation etc. Slovenian local flags deal with this problem properly, providing legislative basis for this custom that is certainly backed with the weather conditions and wish for the best, most useful and most decorative flag display.
Zeljko Heimer, 20 August 2002

Forms of hoisting flags in Germany, Austria and adjacent countries