The flag used to be a one-colored one in red, but white was added to the left side from the mid 19th century. It is believed that the uniqe dark red color, almost like reddish brown, was the result of discoloring by sunlight but was used as the official color thereon. The zigzag that separate the white and reddish brown portions, has been said to symbolize the history of holy war, or the number of independent administrative districts, or simply a decorative design, but no offical explanation exists.