The Flag of Belgium consists of three vertical stripes of black, yellow, and red. The black stripe is on the hoist side, followed by yellow in the center, and red on the fly side. This tricolor design was officially adopted in 1831, shortly after Belgium gained independence from the Netherlands. The colors of the flag are derived from the coat of arms of the Duchy of Brabant, which features a black lion on a gold background. The flag symbolizes the unity of the Belgian people and represents the country's rich history and cultural heritage.