Official Palette
Symbolism
The white cross on a red field represents Christianity and the military honor of the Old Swiss Confederacy. It is one of the world's most recognizable symbols, famously inverted to create the emblem of the Red Cross.
History
The cross dates back to the 14th century, used as a field sign by Swiss soldiers. The red background and square shape were formalized in 1848 when Switzerland became a federal state.
Construction
One of only two square (1:1) national flags (along with the Vatican). The arms of the cross are equal, with a length-to-width ratio of 7:6.
Color Meanings
red: Determination, courage, and battle
white: Christianity, peace, and neutrality
Country Facts
- Population
- 9.1M
1.0% of Europe
- Capital
- Bern
- Languages
- French, Swiss German, Italian, Romansh
- Continent
- Europe
- Subregion
- Central Europe
- Landlocked
- Yes
- Borders
- ISO 3166-1
- CH
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- December 12, 1889
- Proportions
1:1
- Total Colors
- 2
Influences
Old Swiss Confederacy field sign
Flags with resemblance
Visually close designs. Compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The flag must be perfectly square for land use
- The arms of the cross must be 1/6th longer than they are wide
Practice
Think you know the flags of Europe? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.