Iceland Flag

The white symbolizes the glaciers and snowfields forever blanketing the land, while the blue represents the Atlantic Ocean and the sky. The red stands for Iceland’s volcanic fire and geothermal energy—a nod to its geological dynamism. The cross not only echoes Christian roots, but also underlines Iceland’s cultural and historical ties to Norway and Denmark.

Used unofficially from the late 19th century, the flag gained maritime recognition in 1915 under Danish rule. It became the legal national flag when Iceland became a republic on 17 June 1944, coinciding precisely with its declaration of independence from Denmark. Over time, precise specifications for color shades and flag protocol were codified, reinforcing national identity at sea and in civic life.

The flag's rectangle is divided by a red Nordic cross edged in white; the cross is offset toward the hoist in the classic Scandinavian layout. The official proportions are 18:25, with ultramarine blue field, white fimbriation, and flame-red cross. Variants include a swallow-tailed version for state and naval use, and specialized flags for government ministries and the presidency.

Icelandic law requires the flag to be raised at 7 a.m. and lowered at sunset or midnight, whichever comes first. Use is restricted to clean, undamaged flags and regulated through penalties for disrespect. Key flag days include National Day (17 June), First Day of Summer, and the birthday of Jón Sigurðsson, a symbol of independence. The flag must not be flown above other nations’ flags in diplomatic settings and is treated with solemn respect.