Symbolism
The red cross on white is the St. George's Cross associated with the island's name and Norman-English heritage. The gold Norman cross overlay represents the Duchy of Normandy, from which the island's medieval rulers came, combined into a distinctive banner for the Bailiwick.
History
The modern flag was officially adopted on April 30, 1985, to give Guernsey a distinct symbol separate from the generic Blue Ensign. It combines the Cross of St. George with a gold cross derived from Duke William of Normandy's banner.
Construction
A 2:3 ratio white field with a red St. George's cross overlaid by a narrower gold cross.
Color Meanings
red: St. George's Cross and courage
white: Purity and the historic cross of St. George
gold: The Norman cross of the island's medieval rulers
Country Facts
- Continent
- Europe
- Subregion
- British Isles
- Landlocked
- No
- ISO 3166-1
- GG
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- April 30, 1985
- Proportions
2:3 (≈1.500)
Influences
St. George's Cross
Cross of William the Conqueror
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- Flown alongside the Union Jack on official buildings in Guernsey
- The gold cross must overlay the red cross without obscuring the arms
Practice
Think you know the flags of Europe? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.