Flag of Switzerland
Flag NameFlag of Switzerland
Country NameSwitzerland
ISO 3166-1 alpha-2CH
Date Adopted1889-12-12
Adoption Statusofficial
Flag Typenational
Aspect Ratio1:1
Primary Colorsred, white
Symbolism DescriptionThe white cross on a red field is a traditional symbol of the Old Swiss Confederacy, dating back to the 14th century. It is often associated with Christianity, peace, and the federal nature of Switzerland. The red color is sometimes said to represent sovereignty or the blood shed for the confederation, while white represents purity or peace.
Symbolism Categorieshistory
DesignerUnknown (evolved over centuries)
Canton DetailsNot applicable to the national flag itself, but Switzerland is a confederation of 26 cantons, each with its own flag.
Related FlagsRed Cross emblem, Flags of Swiss Cantons
Legal DescriptionDefined by the Federal Act on the Protection of the Swiss Coat of Arms and Other Public Emblems (Wappenschutzgesetz) of 2013, which specifies the dimensions of the cross and the shade of red.
Description
A red square field with a bold, equilateral white cross in the center. The arms of the cross are one-sixth longer than their width.
