From Balmoral via Edinburgh to London, a mysterious flag covers the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II.
Less known than the famous Union Jack, this standard is the personal flag of the monarch of the United Kingdom.
To discover
OUR FILE - Elizabeth II, a rock and a symbol for England
Divided into four, this emblematic flag of the British monarchy represents the coat of arms of the royal family.
At the top left, as at the bottom right, three golden lions on a red background symbolize England.
At the top right, a red lion on a golden background embodies the ancient Kingdom of Scotland.
Finally, at the bottom left, a golden lyre on a navy blue background evokes Northern Ireland.
The Royal Flag flies on the roof of Buckingham Palace during the Queen's Birthday Parade, as part of Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, in London on June 2, 2022. PAUL ELLIS / POOL / AFP
This modern version of the flag dates back to the time of Queen Victoria in the 19th century.
It is used in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Previously, the standard included other elements, notably fleur-de-lys, referring to English claims to the throne of France.
Signal the presence of the monarch
This standard is mainly used to signal the presence of a sovereign in one of the royal residences such as Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle or Sandringham House.
It can also float on any building, official or private, during a sovereign's visit.
The same protocol is applied on the royal yacht, cars, planes used by the monarch.
In addition, a second, older version is preferred in Scotland.
The Scottish coat of arms, such as the red lion on a golden background, is more present there.
This flag is flown over the royal residences of Holyrood and Balmoral today, when the monarch is present.
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Unlike the Union Jack, the royal standard is never lowered when the monarch dies.
Since the crown passes directly to the successor, a sovereign always sits on the English throne.