The Lion Rampant [also referred to as the Scottish
Royal Standard] consists of the arms of the King of Scots;
a red lion rampant on a yellow background within a frame
decorated with fleurs-de-lys.
The red lion was originally the emblem of William the Lion (1165-1214), during the years when Scotland was independent.
The frame dates back to at least the 12th century, and the fleurs-de-lys are said to commemorate the long-standing alliance between Scotland and France.
Technically speaking, this flag should only be used by the King or Queen of Scotland, and a law from 1679 states the death penalty if the royal arms is misused!
The Lion Rampant cannot fly from a flagpole or over a building without permission, and currently only flies over two buildings, Dover House in London, which houses the offices of the Secretary of State for Scotland, and New St Andrew's House in Edinburgh. However, permission has been granted for The Lion to be waved at soccer (football) matches, and fans wrap themselves in it, in a 'show of loyalty' to Scotland.
The Lion Rampant [also referred to as the Scottish![[Next - The Thistle]](http://www.wtv-zone.com/Scotland/Z/next.jpg)
