Flag of Switzerland

The Swiss flag is one of the most recognizable national symbols in the world. Its peculiarity lies not only in its design, but also in its rare square shape, which distinguishes it from most other national flags. The Swiss flag consists of a white cross on a red background, which symbolizes peace, neutrality and historical unity of the Swiss Confederation.

History of the Swiss flag

The Swiss flag has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The symbol of a white cross on a red background was originally used as a military insignia and later became the national symbol.

The origin of the symbol

• XIV century: During battles, the soldiers of the Swiss Union wore a white cross on their red uniforms as a sign of unity and loyalty.
• 1815: After the Congress of Vienna, Switzerland declared its neutrality and the white cross on a red background became a symbol of peace and independence.
• 1848: After the creation of the modern Swiss Confederation, the flag was officially approved in a square format.

The modern look of the flag has been preserved since the XIX century and has become a symbol of stability, neutrality and democratic values of Switzerland.

Colors of the Swiss flag

Meaning of the flag colors

The Swiss flag has a simple but deeply symbolic design:

1. A white cross:
   • Symbolizes peace, harmony and equality.
   • Historically associated with Christian values and the defense of the homeland.
2. Red background:
   • It represents courage, bravery and independence.
   • The color is reminiscent of Switzerland’s military past and its struggle for freedom.

The combination of these elements creates a unique symbol of unity that reflects Switzerland’s neutrality in international relations.

Color codes

The Swiss flag has officially approved colors to accurately reflect its design. Below are the colors in the different systems:

1. Red:
   • RGB: (255, 0, 0)
   • HEX: #FF0000
   • CMYK: (0, 100, 100, 0)
   • Pantone: 485 C
2. White:
   • RGB: (255, 255, 255)
   • HEX: #FFFFFF
   • CMYK: (0, 0, 0, 0)
   • Pantone: White

Format and proportions

The Swiss flag is one of the few flags in the world that has a square shape.

Flag proportions

The standard proportions of the Swiss flag are 1:1, i.e. the height is equal to the width. This makes it unique among national flags.

The cross is located in the center of the flag

• The white cross is located in the center of the flag.
• The proportions of the cross are clearly defined: its shoulders are equal to 1/6 of the flag’s length, and the distance between the ends of the cross and the edge of the flag should be 1/6 of the flag’s length.

Interesting facts about the flag of Switzerland

1. Square design: The Swiss flag is one of only two national flags in the world that are square in shape (the other is the Vatican flag).
2. A symbol of neutrality: The flag has become a symbol of Switzerland’s neutrality, especially during the World Wars.
3. Red Cross logo: The Red Cross symbol was created on the basis of the Swiss flag, but with an inversion of colors (a red cross on a white background) as a sign of humanitarian aid.

The Swiss flag is a symbol of unity, peace and neutrality. Its laconic and clear design carries a deep meaning that reflects the values of the Swiss people: independence, harmony and the desire for stability.