Flag of Faroe Islands

Europe

1940

FO | 8:11

Symbolism

The white-fimbriated red Nordic cross on blue represents Christianity and the Faroese connection to other Nordic nations. Red and blue are traditional Faroese colors found in folk costumes, while white adds the standard fimbriation used on Nordic crosses over dark fields.

History

The flag (Merkið) was designed by Faroese students in Copenhagen and first raised in 1919. Denmark officially recognized it on March 31, 1940, during the British occupation of the Faroe Islands in World War II, and it later became the symbol of Faroese home rule.

Construction

An 8:11 ratio Nordic cross: blue field with a white-fimbriated red cross offset toward the hoist.

Color Meanings

blue: The North Atlantic surrounding the archipelago

white: The foam of the sea and Christianity

red: Faroese folk costume colors and the cross of faith

Country Facts

Continent: Europe
Landlocked: No
ISO 3166-1: FO

Flag Identification

Adopted: March 31, 1940
Proportions: 8:11 (≈1.375)

Influences

Danish flag (Dannebrog)

Nordic cross tradition

Faroese national costume

Related flags

Flag Protocol

Flown on Faroese Flag Day (April 25) and on Danish national holidays
Must not be flown in damaged or faded condition on public buildings

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