Flag of Malta

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See also: List of flags of Malta
Flag ratio: 2:3
Flag ratio: 2:3
Civil ensign; Flag ratio: 2:3
Civil ensign; Flag ratio: 2:3

The Flag of Malta is a basic bi-colour, with white in the hoist and red in the fly: colours from the blazon of the arms of Malta. Tradition states that the colours of the flag were given to Malta by Count Roger of Sicily, in 1091. The banner of Count Roger was a chequered red and white flag and he gave a set from this banner. However, many say that this claim is only a legend developed through time.

In the upper hoist corner (in the canton of the white field) is the George Cross, outlined in red. The honour was awarded by King George VI to the entire Maltese population for their exceptional bravery and gallantry during World War II. This flag was adopted upon Malta's independence, on 21 September 1964. The Maltese flag is unique in that it is the only national flag in the world bearing a decoration from another country, in this case the United Kingdom.

The civil ensign is totally different: it shows a red field, bordered white and charged with a white Maltese cross.

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