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.
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