Norway Flag
National Flag of Norway
By Mohamadou Moctar · Last updated
What does the Norway flag mean?
The red and white mirror the Danish flag reflecting historical ties, while the blue cross denotes Norway’s allegiance to the other Scandinavian countries. Together the colors evoke heritage, freedom, and navigation.
Norway Flag Display
Quick facts
- Adopted:
- 15 December 1899 (clean design post‑Swedish union)
- Aspect Ratio:
- 8:11
- Capital:
- Oslo
- Population:
- Approximately 5.4 million (2023)
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Shop now on AmazonNorway Flag - Description
Norway’s flag features a red field with a blue Scandinavian cross outlined in white, symbolizing its Nordic identity and maritime heritage.
Norway Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
Norway Flag - History and Origins
Designed in 1821 by Frederik Meltzer as a distinct flag under union with Sweden, the design was gradually accepted, and after the official dissolution of the Swedish–Norwegian union in 1905, the clean cross flag (without the union badge) became Norway’s national flag. The design was standardized by 1899 for public use.
Norway Flag - Design Elements
A red rectangular field pierced by a blue cross bordered in white, extending to the flag edges. The proportions are fixed at 8:11. The vertical and horizontal lines adhere to Scandinavian cross norms. Colour shades are officially defined in national flag standards.
Norway Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
Norwegian flag law mandates flying the flag on public holidays, government buildings, and at sea. It must be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset, in good condition, and flown at half‑mast during national mourning.
Further reading: Flag of Norway on Wikipedia
Flags Similar to Norway
The Norway Flag shares design elements with other national flags. These comparisons show how to tell them apart and why they look alike:
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Norway Flag represent?
The red and white mirror the Danish flag reflecting historical ties, while the blue cross denotes Norway’s allegiance to the other Scandinavian countries. Together the colors evoke heritage, freedom, and navigation.
When was the Norway Flag adopted?
15 December 1899 (clean design post‑Swedish union)
What is the aspect ratio of the Norway Flag?
The Norway flag has an aspect ratio of 8:11.