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Flag of Norway

Europe
5.6M
1899
Flag of Norway
NO | 8:11

Official Palette

Symbolism

The red, white, and blue colors reflect Norway's historical ties with Denmark (red and white) and Sweden (blue), while also representing the colors of democracy (like France and the USA).

History

Designed in 1821 by Fredrik Meltzer, a member of parliament. It officially became the national flag in 1899 when the union mark with Sweden was removed from civil ensigns.

Construction

A 8:11 ratio. A red field with a blue Nordic cross outlined in white that extends to the edges.

Color Meanings

red: Valour and historical ties with Denmark
white: Peace and purity
blue: Vigilance and historical ties with Sweden

Country Facts

Population
5.6M

0.6% of Europe

Capital
Oslo
Languages
Norwegian Nynorsk, Norwegian Bokmål, Sami
Continent
Europe
Subregion
Scandinavia
Landlocked
No
Borders
Flag of Finland FinlandFlag of Sweden SwedenFlag of Russia Russia
ISO 3166-1
NO

Flag Identification

Adopted
December 15, 1899
Designer
Fredrik Meltzer
Proportions

8:11 (≈1.375)

811
Total Colors
3
Key Symbols
Cross

Influences

Danish and Swedish flags
French Tricolor colors

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs — compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • A special swallowtail version is used for state and military purposes
  • The flag is never allowed to touch the ground

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