Malta Flag: Meaning, Colors, History & Facts
Malta’s national flag has two equal vertical bands, white and red, with the George Cross edged in red in the upper hoist corner. The cross commemorates Malta’s World War II courage.
What does the Malta flag look like?
The flag is divided into two equal vertical halves: white at the hoist and red at the fly. A representation of the George Cross, outlined in red, appears in the upper-left corner of the white half.
What is the George Cross?
The George Cross is a British decoration for exceptional courage. Malta received it collectively during the Second World War after enduring sustained bombing and siege conditions.
Why is it on the national flag?
The award became part of Malta’s national symbolism and was incorporated into the flag. The Constitution specifically names the George Cross awarded on April 15, 1942.
Explore the George Cross in detail →
Is the George Cross the same as the Maltese Cross?
No. The George Cross is the small decoration shown on the national flag. The eight-pointed Maltese Cross is a separate historic symbol associated with Malta and the Order of St John.
What is the official ratio?
Government graphical specifications define the flag as 2:3.
How did the flag develop?
White and red have long been associated with Malta. The George Cross was added during the wartime period, and the same basic flag became the national flag when Malta gained independence on September 21, 1964.
How can you identify Malta’s flag?
Look for a vertical white-and-red bicolor with a small George Cross in the upper-left corner. Without the cross, the color arrangement alone could be confused with other bicolors.
Malta flag facts
| Colors | White and red |
|---|---|
| Decoration | George Cross |
| George Cross awarded | April 15, 1942 |
| Ratio | 2:3 |
| Independence | September 21, 1964 |
