Flags have been used for centuries as a form of communication and identification.  They have been in existence for over 3000 years.

Flags were essential on the battlefield, distinguishing friend from enemy.  It was also an effective way of identifying a fighting knight covered in heavy armour.  A unique emblem, often in the shape of a a shield, was used for each leader.  The emblem was drawn onto a flag then attached to a pole and taken forward into battle.  This is where coat of arms originated.

Tamworth Castle Flags
Have you ever wondered what flags are flown on Tamworth Castle? Then here are a few flags that can be seen at the top of the tower. These are the main flags, there are some other flags that get flown on the Castle and we now have them all out on display in our High Tower Chamber!

	The Union Jack is flown on royal birthdays and national events. It is called the Union Flag because it symbolises the union of the countries of the United Kingdom. It is made up of the individual Flags of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
	The Borough flag is a rectangular version of the shield on the Tamworth Coat of Arms and is flown whenever the Mayor of Tamworth is in the Castle
	St George flag is flown on St George's day. In 1194 A.D King Richard I of England introduced the Cross of St. George, a red cross on a white ground, as the National Flag of England.
	Borough Seal flag, The ancient seal of the Borough of Tamworth
	Mercian flag, Tamworth functioned as the Capital of this ancient Saxon kingdom from 527-918.
	Marmion Flag featuring a blue "vair" design with silver. The Marmion's were owners of Tamworth Castle from c1101 to 1291, For more information click here.
	Ferrers Flag. This family were responsible for transforming the castle from a fortress to a grand home from 1418 to 1688. Their original fcoat of arms featured horsehoes but later they adopted a red and gold vair design.