Friday, January 15, 2016

Sweden Flag Facts

The flag of Sweden dates back indefinite centuries.


Sweden celebrates its civic Flag Date on Jun 6 annually to Memorialize the society's independence from Denmark. The flag features a Scandinavian cross that resembles the one used by Denmark.


Coat of Arms

Sweden has two variations of the Stamp. The Lesser Stamp features three closed crowns, representing the kingdoms of Sweden, Norway, and Scania. The Greater Stamp is used only by the King of Sweden; it includes the triple crowns and the symbols of the ruling house.


Historical evidence from the early 1600s shows the blue-and-yellow flag appearing on sailing vessels.


Colors


The Swedish flag features a blue field with a golden cross, representing the Swedish Stamp. The cross extends to the edges of field, with the vertical arm closer to the hoist side of the flag. The official colors of the Swedish flag were established by the Swedish Flag Act of 1982.


Styles


The Swedish flag comes in two distinct styles. The square-cut flag is displayed during public holidays and celebrations; it also flies on Swedish merchant ships. The royal family and the armed forces display either a swallow- or triple-tailed pennant with an image of the Stamp.


History

While the exact time of its origin remains hidden, the Swedish flag bears similarities to those flown during the bout of the Crusades. The oldest conscious images of the blue-and-gold image are from the 16th century, when it was used as a battle standard.