Understanding the Malta Flag and its Significance

The Malta flag is the national flag of the Republic of Malta. It is a simple design with two main colors: red and white. The design has been the official flag of Malta since the country became independent from the United Kingdom in 1964.

Design of the Malta Flag

The Malta flag has two vertical stripes: one white stripe and one red stripe. The red stripe is located on the left side of the flag, and it occupies 2/5 of the length of the flag. The white stripe is located on the right-hand side of the flag and occupies 3/5 of the length of the flag. The top left hand corner of the flag features the George Cross, which is a white cross with four arms of equal length, surrounded by a circle of green leaves.

The George Cross symbolizes the bravery and determination of the Maltese people during the Second World War. In 1942, Malta was the most heavily bombed place on earth, with an average of 3000 bombs per day. Despite the constant bombing, Malta never surrendered and was able to continue to fight against the Axis powers. The George Cross was awarded to the Maltese people in recognition of their bravery during this difficult time.

Symbolism of the Malta Flag

The Maltese flag represents the rich history, culture, and values of Malta. The red and white colors of the flag represent the red and white colors of the Knights of Malta, who were a religious and military order that ruled Malta from 1530 to 1798. The George Cross on the flag is a symbol of Malta’s independence and bravery during the Second World War.

The green leaves that surround the George Cross represent the agricultural wealth of Malta. Despite being a small island nation, Malta has a long and rich history of agriculture, with a range of crops including olives, figs, and citrus fruits being grown on the island.

Flag Protocol

The Malta flag is held in high regard and has a number of strict protocols that must be followed. For example, the flag should never touch the ground, and it should not be flown at half-mast except in the case of a national mourning period. When the flag is being carried, it should always be held high and should never be allowed to drag along the ground.

The flag should also be displayed correctly. When the Malta flag is flown alongside other national flags, it should be positioned to the right of the other flags as seen from the audience. If the flag is flown on a single flagpole, it should be displayed in the center of the pole. The flag should also never be smaller than any other flag being displayed alongside it.

FAQs

Why is the Malta flag red and white?

The red and white colors on the flag represent the red and white colors of the Knights of Malta, who were a religious and military order that ruled Malta from 1530 to 1798.

What does the George Cross symbolize?

The George Cross on the flag is a symbol of Malta’s independence and bravery during the Second World War.

What is the significance of the green leaves that surround the George Cross?

The green leaves represent the agricultural wealth of Malta, with a range of crops including olives, figs, and citrus fruits being grown on the island.

What are the flag protocols for the Malta flag?

The Malta flag should never touch the ground, and it should not be flown at half-mast except in the case of a national mourning period. The flag should also be displayed correctly, and when the Malta flag is flown alongside other national flags, it should be positioned to the right of the other flags as seen from the audience. If the flag is flown on a single flagpole, it should be displayed in the center of the pole.