Faroe Islands Flag: Meaning and History

Embroidered flag patch — Faroe Islands

History of the flag

This flag was designed in 1919 and adopted in 1948 when the islands were granted autonomy within Denmark.

It was used during the Second World War by Faroese ships to avoid confusion with occupied Denmark.

What do the elements of the flag mean?

  • The red cross embodies Christianity and echoes other Scandinavian flags.

  • The blue refers to the North Atlantic Ocean.

  • White evokes purity, snow and light.