What do the chains stand for on the Spanish flag?

Answer 1

The chains are the Chains of Navarre. Each of the four quadrants of the Spanish coat of arms represent one of the four kingdoms that united to create Spain: the castle for Castile, the lion for Leon, the bars for Aragon, and the chains for Navarre.

The chains are a symbol of the fight led by the Kings of Navarre against Islamic Spain in the Reconquista. Specifically, when King Sancho VII of Navarre fought against the Muslims in the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212, the Muslim camp was surrounded Black Slaves called Imesebelen in Spanish. These slaves were linked around the camp by a chain that effectively prevented them from moving and would force them to defend the Muslim position at the risk of their lives. King Sancho VII cut the chains, which allowed the Imesebelen to run away and expose the weaker Muslim flank. After the victory, which effectively destroyed any long-term hope the Muslims had of keeping Iberia, King Sancho VII ordered his soldiers to collect the chains as a trophy of their victory. Thus, they became the symbol of Navarre.