Flag Overview
Meaning of the Flag
The national flag of Finland is known as the siniristilippu – or Blue Cross Flag. It is named as such because of the blue Nordic cross that makes up the design of the flag.
The meaning behind the Nordic cross is simple – it is a representation of Christianity. All Nordic countries with the exception of Greenland incorporate the Nordic cross into their designs.
The color combination used on the Finnish flag has been used throughout history on various flags to represent natural features of the country, which we’ll explore in more detail in the next section.
Colors of the Flag
The Finnish flag uses two colors: blue and white. A blue Nordic cross makes up the design of the flag. This color was selected to represent the Finnish sky and the many lakes of the nation. The white field is used to represent snow.
Finland also has a state flag with a similar design. The only difference is that the flag includes the national coat of arms. The coat of arms includes the colors yellow and red.
History of the Flag
Finland doesn’t have a very long history when it comes to its national flag. The current design was first adopted on May 28, 1918, although the design dates back to the 19th century. Throughout the years, provinces, militaries, and towns have used flags featuring the blue and white colors used on the modern national flag.
The national flag was adopted after citizens wanted a flag to represent their country following the nation’s independence from Russia.
Flag Facts
The Finnish government has made it elegal to use a state flag without permission.
Finnish flags that are washed must only be dried indoors.
Worn-out flags can be cut into small pieces or burned. Flags can’t be thrown into the sea, buried, or thrown away.
