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Flag of Greece

The "Galanolefki"

Europe
10.4M
1978
Flag of Greece
GR | 2:3

Official Palette

Symbolism

The nine stripes represent the nine syllables of the phrase 'Eleftheria i Thanatos' (Freedom or Death). Blue represents the sea and sky, while white represents the purity of the independence struggle. The cross symbolizes Eastern Orthodox Christianity.

History

The design was officially adopted as the sole national flag in 1978, though it had been used as a naval ensign since 1822 during the Greek War of Independence.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio. Nine equal horizontal stripes of blue alternating with white. A blue square canton with a white cross occupies the upper hoist-side corner.

Color Meanings

blue: The Aegean Sea and the clear Greek sky
white: The purity of the independence struggle and white clouds

Country Facts

Population
10.4M

1.1% of Europe

Capital
Athens
Languages
Greek
Continent
Europe
Landlocked
No
Borders
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ISO 3166-1
GR

Flag Identification

Adopted
December 22, 1978
Proportions

2:3 (≈1.500)

23
Total Colors
2
Key Symbols
Canton

Influences

Nine syllables of the motto 'Eleftheria i Thanatos'

Flags with resemblance

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Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • The nine stripes must always be alternating blue and white
  • The cross in the canton must be white on a blue field

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