The copper-orange color of the island represents the large deposits of copper ore (the island's name, Cyprus, is derived from the Latin word for copper). The two olive branches symbolize peace between the Greek and Turkish communities.
History
Adopted on August 16, 1960, upon independence from British rule. It was designed by a Turkish Cypriot artist, Ismet Guney, and chosen by President Makarios III.
Construction
A 2:3 ratio. A white field with the map of Cyprus centered in copper-orange, above two crossed olive branches.
Color Meanings
copper: The island's namesake mineral wealth and heritage
green: Peace between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities
