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Flag of Greece

The "Galanolefki"

Flag of Greece
GR · 2:3

Official Palette

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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.

Country Specifications

Capital
Athens
Population
10.4M
Languages
Greek
Continent
Europe
Landlocked
No
ISO 3166-1
GR

Flag Identification

Adopted
December 22, 1978
Proportions
2:3 (≈0.67)
Total Colors
2
Key Symbols
Canton

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Sources

  • Britannica
  • CIA World Factbook