Flag of Norway

This flag features a red field charged with a blue Nordic cross that is fimbriated in white. The vertical arm of the cross is positioned off-center toward the hoist, a layout characteristic of Scandinavian vexillology.

The central cross reflects the nation's Christian heritage and its cultural ties to neighboring Nordic countries. By selecting a palette of red, white, and blue, the creators intended to evoke the liberal ideals of the French and American revolutions. Additionally, the specific colors serve as a historical bridge, incorporating the red and white of the former Danish union alongside the blue associated with Sweden.

Norwegian parliamentarian Fredrik Meltzer designed the current layout in 1821 to replace the Danish flag used during the long union between the two nations. While the design was initially restricted to merchant vessels in nearby waters, it became the primary national symbol following the removal of the Swedish union mark in 1898. Earlier historical iterations included a golden lion with an axe on a red field, representing the medieval Kingdom of Norway.