Legend of the Danish flag
The legend of the Danish flag, Dannebrog, is one of the most well-known stories in Danish history, also marking the close historical and cultural ties between Denmark and Estonia. Dannebrog is considered one of the world's oldest national flags still in use today. It is not only a symbol of Denmark's history but also a focal point for Danish culture and identity.
The legend of Dannebrog dates back to 15 June 1219, when the Danish King Valdemar II led his army to Estonia during a crusade. At the Battle of Lyndanisse (modern-day Tallinn), the Danish army was on the brink of defeat. At that moment, Dannebrog is said to have fallen from the sky. The flag was interpreted as a sign from God and led the Danes to victory.
There are two monuments reflecting the legend in the Danish King's Garden in Tallinn's Old Town.
In 2019, Dannebrog's 800th anniversary was celebrated. In connection with this, Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark visited Tallinn with the Royal Yacht Dannebrog, accompanied by the Foreign Minister, to participate in the events for the 800th anniversary of Dannebrog, the 800th anniversary of the founding of Tallinn, the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, and the 135th anniversary of the Estonian flag. On 15 June 2019 the Danish Queen's Rose Garden was opened near the Danish King's Garden.
The legend of Dannebrog dates back to 15 June 1219, when the Danish King Valdemar II led his army to Estonia during a crusade. At the Battle of Lyndanisse (modern-day Tallinn), the Danish army was on the brink of defeat. At that moment, Dannebrog is said to have fallen from the sky. The flag was interpreted as a sign from God and led the Danes to victory.
There are two monuments reflecting the legend in the Danish King's Garden in Tallinn's Old Town.
In 2019, Dannebrog's 800th anniversary was celebrated. In connection with this, Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark visited Tallinn with the Royal Yacht Dannebrog, accompanied by the Foreign Minister, to participate in the events for the 800th anniversary of Dannebrog, the 800th anniversary of the founding of Tallinn, the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, and the 135th anniversary of the Estonian flag. On 15 June 2019 the Danish Queen's Rose Garden was opened near the Danish King's Garden.