Flag of Malta

Flag ratio: 2:3

Civil ensign; Flag ratio: 2:3

The Flag of Malta is a basic bi-colour, with white in the hoist and red in the fly: the banner of the arms of Malta. Tradition states that the colours of the flag were given to Malta by Count Roger of Sicily, in 1091; however, this claim is only a legend developed through time.

In the upper hoist corner (in the canton of the white stripe) is the George Cross, outlined in red. The honour was awarded to the entire Maltese population for their exceptional bravery and gallantry during World War II. This flag was adopted upon Malta's independence, on 21 September 1964. The Maltese flag is unique in that it is the only national flag in the world bearing a decoration from another country (in this case, the United Kingdom).

The civil ensign is totally different: it shows a red field, bordered white and charged with a white Maltese cross.

Controversy

From time to time a controversy arises regarding the use of the George Cross medal on the top left corner of the flag. Whilst many see the cross as being a symbol of bravery during World War II, other see it as a reminder of colonial past.^{[citation needed]}

See also

• Coat of arms of Malta
• Flags and symbols of Malta
• History of Malta
• Culture of Malta
• Politics of Malta

External links

• Government of Malta website
• Department of Information - Malta
• Malta at Flags of the World

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