Most nations have a rectangular ensign - but not all. Three countries have unusually-shaped flags, two of them will be paraded at this evening’s Olympic Opening Ceremony.

Flags often imitate or are influenced by other nations, creating “flag families.” For example, the Netherlands’ red, white and blue flag from the 1500s set a precedent. Advertisement.

Flags often imitate or are influenced by other nations, creating “flag families.” For example, the Netherlands’ red, white and blue flag from the 1500s set a precedent.

"The flags that fly outside of the U.N. headquarters are only those of the 193 member states and two observer states, as well as, of course, the flag of the United Nations itself," Dujarric said ...