Flag of Norway

Norway Flag

Country Information

Sovereign StateYes
Country CodesNO, NOR, 578
Official NameKingdom of Norway
ContinentEurope
CapitalOslo
Government TypeConstitutional Monarchy with a Parliamentary System
CurrencyNorwegian Krone (NOK)
Calling Code+47
Member OfUnited Nations, European Free Trade Association, Schengen Area, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, World Trade Organization, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
PopulationApproximately 5.4 million
Total Area385,207 km²
Highest PointGaldhøpiggen (2,469 meters, 8,100 feet)
Lowest PointNorwegian Sea (0 meters, 0 feet)
GDP Per CapitaUSD 67,988
Life Expectancy82 years
Internet TLD.no

Norway National Anthem

Ja, vi elsker dette landet (Yes, We Love This Country)

Yes, we love this country
as it rises forth,
rugged, weathered, over the water,
with the thousands of homes, —
Love it, love it and think
about our father and mother
and the saga night that sends
dreams to our earth.

Flags of Neighboring Countries

History of the Norway Flag

The national flag of Norway was officially adopted on July 17, 1821. Designed by Fredrik Meltzer, a member of the Norwegian parliament, the flag reflects Norway’s history and its connections to other European countries.

The flag’s design is a red field with a blue cross outlined in white. The cross follows the Nordic tradition, a common feature in the flags of other Nordic countries like Sweden and Denmark, symbolizing Norway’s cultural links to its Scandinavian neighbors. The choice of colors was influenced by the French Tricolore, a symbol of liberty and revolution, reflecting the liberal movements of the time.

Prior to the adoption of the current design, Norway used the same flag as Denmark, due to the countries’ union. During the union with Sweden, from 1814 to 1905, the Norwegian flag incorporated the Swedish flag, indicating the union between the two nations. The current flag symbolizes Norway’s independence and national identity.

The Norwegian flag is a source of national pride and is widely used by the people of Norway. It is prominently displayed on national holidays such as Constitution Day and at sporting events. The flag symbolizes the country’s history, independence, and the shared cultural heritage of the Nordic countries. The design reflects the values of democracy, liberty, and the country’s natural beauty.