Flag of Denmark

Denmark Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesDK, DNK, 208
Official NameKingdom of Denmark
ContinentEurope
CapitalCopenhagen
Government TypeConstitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy
CurrencyDanish Krone (DKK)
Calling Code+45
Member OfUnited Nations, European Union, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, Council of the Baltic Sea States, Nordic Council, Arctic Council, Schengen Area
PopulationApprox. 5.8 million (as of 2023)
Total Area42,933 square kilometers (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands)
Highest PointMøllehøj (170.86 meters or 560.56 feet)
Lowest PointLammefjord (−7 meters or −23 feet)
GDP Per CapitaApprox. $60,000 (as of 2023)
Life ExpectancyApprox. 81 years (as of 2023)
Internet TLD.dk

Danish National Anthem

Der er et yndigt land (There is a lovely country)

There is a lovely country
it stands with broad beeches
near the salty eastern beach
It winds itself in hill, valley
it is called old Denmark
And it is Freja’s hall
There sat in former times,
the armour-suited warriors,
rested from conflict
Then they went forward to the enemies’ injury,
now their bones are resting
behind the mound’s menhir

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Danish Flag

The flag of Denmark, known as the Dannebrog, is one of the oldest national flags in the world. Its history and symbolism are deeply rooted in Danish identity and legend.

The Dannebrog is a red flag with a white Scandinavian cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted towards the hoist side. According to legend, the flag fell from the sky during the Battle of Lyndanisse in Estonia in 1219, and was seen as a sign from God leading to a Danish victory. This legend contributes to the strong sense of national pride associated with the flag.

The flag was officially adopted in 1625, though its use dates back to the 13th or 14th century. The red and white colors are traditional in Denmark, and the design is reflective of the Scandinavian cross, symbolizing Christianity. The cross design has been adopted by the other Nordic countries (Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland), signifying their historical and cultural connections.

Over the centuries, the Dannebrog has become a symbol of Danish heritage, national pride, and unity. It is deeply revered and is used in a variety of settings, from national celebrations to private events. The flag is flown on public buildings, at sporting events, and during official state visits, representing Denmark’s history, culture, and place in the world. The design of the flag has remained consistent over the centuries, signifying the enduring nature of Danish culture and national identity.