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
Country Facts
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- December 15, 1899
- Designer
- Fredrik Meltzer
- Proportions
8:11 (≈1.375)
- Total Colors
- 3
- Key Symbols
- Cross
Influences
Lookalike Comparison
Side-by-side analysis of high-confusion flags, comparing exact color shades, proportions, and historical divergence.
Direct Lookalike Comparison
Quick Tell
Norway is a red field with a white-bordered blue cross; Iceland is a blue field with a white-bordered red cross.
Color Shades & Hex Codes
Norway: Red
#BA0C2F
Iceland: Blue
#02529C
Historical Divergence
Both Nordic crosses descend from Denmark's Dannebrog. Fredrik Meltzer added blue to Norway's cross in 1821; Iceland inverted the red and blue on a territorial flag in 1915.
Flags with resemblance
Same Nordic cross with a white outline. Norway is a red field with a blue cross; Iceland is a blue field with a red cross.
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- A special swallowtail version is used for state and military purposes
- The flag is never allowed to touch the ground
Practice
Think you know the flags of Europe? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.