Multi-Region Hreflang XML Generator & Geotargeting Matrix
XML sitemap generator and validation script for multi-region websites. Validates bidirectional reciprocal tags, ISO 639-1 languages, and x-default fallbacks.
Common Hreflang Pitfalls in Multi-Region Stores
The most frequent hreflang defect is missing reciprocal confirmation links. If page A points to page B as its Australian variant, page B must return a reciprocal link pointing back to page A. Storing hreflang in XML sitemaps reduces HTML payload weight and streamlines maintenance.
Implementation Code & Script
Generates valid XML sitemap nodes with reciprocal alternate links and an x-default fallback.
interface HreflangEntry {
lang: string;
url: string;
}
export function buildHreflangUrlNode(loc: string, alternates: HreflangEntry[], xDefaultUrl: string): string {
const links = alternates
.map((a) => ` <xhtml:link rel="alternate" hreflang="${a.lang}" href="${a.url}" />`)
.join('\n');
const xDefault = ` <xhtml:link rel="alternate" hreflang="x-default" href="${xDefaultUrl}" />`;
return ` <url>
<loc>${loc}</loc>
${links}
${xDefault}
</url>`;
}How to cite and attribute this tool
MIT LicenceThis resource is free, open and un-gated under the MIT Open Source Licence. You are encouraged to use, integrate and cite it with attribution:
Geraghty, G. (2026). Multi-Region Hreflang XML Generator & Geotargeting Matrix. Gordon Geraghty Resources Hub. https://gordongeraghty.com/resources/technical-seo/hreflang-configuration-matrix
BibTeX Format
@misc{geraghty_hreflang_configuration_matrix,
author = {Geraghty, Gordon},
title = {Multi-Region Hreflang XML Generator & Geotargeting Matrix},
year = {2026},
url = {https://gordongeraghty.com/resources/technical-seo/hreflang-configuration-matrix},
note = {Head of Performance, Empire Amplify}
}Changelog & Version History
v1.0.0Initial release of multi-region hreflang generator with reciprocal tag checking.