Neuss

About the place: Neuss is a historic city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, situated on the west bank of the Rhine River directly opposite Düsseldorf. Founded by the Romans as Novaesium, it is one of Germany's oldest cities.

Flag Description: The flag of the city of Neuss consists of two horizontal stripes, red on top and white on the bottom (ratio usually 3:5 or 2:3), with the city coat of arms placed in the center. The arms consist of a split shield: the left (heraldic dexter) black field displays a golden double-headed eagle armed in red, while the right (heraldic sinister) red field shows a continuous silver cross. The shield is surmounted by a golden Imperial crown and flanked by two golden lion supporters. Nine golden spheres are distributed in the upper hoist and fly as well as around the center.

Symbolism: Red and white are the traditional city colors of Neuss. The golden double-headed eagle and the Imperial crown refer to the privileges granted to Neuss by Emperor Frederick III in 1475 after the successful defense of the city during a siege. The silver cross in a red field is the emblem of the Electorate of Cologne, to which Neuss historically belonged. The nine golden spheres represent regional historical symbolism.