Sicily's Flags: The Official Tricolor and the Beloved Trinacria

Sicily does not have a separate official national flag—it uses Italy's green-white-red tricolor. However, it has a powerful unofficial flag that flies everywhere on the island.

The Trinacria (Sicilian Flag)

Design: A white Medusa head (Gorgon) surrounded by three bent legs (triskelion) and three wheat ears, on a yellow-and-red diagonal field.

Symbolism:

• Triskelion: Three capes of Sicily (Pachino, Peloro, Lilibeo) or the island's triangular shape.
• Medusa: Protection from Athena's shield; also represents the Gorgon slain by Perseus.
• Wheat: Sicily's historical role as Rome's granary.
• Colors: Yellow for Palermo, red for Corleone (key cities in 1282 Vespers revolt).

Usage & Status

• Adopted by Sicilian Regional Assembly in 2000.
• Flies alongside Italian and EU flags on public buildings.
• Ubiquitous on souvenirs, sports jerseys, and protest banners.
• Represents Sicilian identity distinct from Italian nationality.

Historical Note

The triskelion appears on ancient Sicilian coins (6th century BCE). The modern design dates to the 1940s separatist movement, later embraced as cultural symbol.