Cyprus Flag: Meaning, Colors, History & Facts
The Republic of Cyprus flag is white with a copper-colored map of the island above two crossed olive branches. It was created for independence in 1960.
What does the Cyprus flag look like?
The flag has a plain white field. In the centre is a copper-orange silhouette of Cyprus with two crossed green olive branches directly beneath it.
Why is the island shown on the flag?
Cyprus is one of the rare countries to use a literal map of its territory as the central emblem of the national flag.
Why is the map copper colored?
The Republic of Cyprus explains that copper is closely linked with the island’s history and even with traditional explanations of the name “Cyprus.” The island was an important ancient producer and supplier of copper.
What do the olive branches mean?
The two crossed olive branches symbolize peace.
Explore the map, colors and olive branches →
Who designed the flag?
Turkish Cypriot artist İsmet Güney won the 1960 competition to design the new republic’s flag.
When was it first used?
Government publications state that the flag came into use on August 16, 1960, when Cyprus became an independent republic.
What are the official colors?
Current government specifications identify copper Pantone 1385 C for the map and olive green Pantone 574 C for the branches.
Read the Cyprus flag history →
How can you identify it?
Look for a white flag with the outline of Cyprus itself and two green olive branches. There are no stripes, stars or coat of arms.
Cyprus flag facts
| Field | White |
|---|---|
| Main symbol | Copper-colored map of Cyprus |
| Other symbols | Two olive branches |
| Designer | İsmet Güney |
| First used | August 16, 1960 |
