Country Information
| Sovereign State | No (Part of the United Kingdom) |
| Country Codes | GB-SCT |
| Official Name | Scotland |
| Continent | Europe |
| Capital | Edinburgh |
| Government Type | Devolved Parliamentary Legislature within a Constitutional Monarchy |
| Currency | Pound Sterling (GBP) |
| Calling Code | +44 |
| Member Of | As part of the UK: United Nations, NATO, Commonwealth, G7, G20, WTO |
| Population | Approximately 5.4 million (2021 estimate) |
| Total Area | 77,933 sq km |
| Highest Point | Ben Nevis (1,345 meters or 4,413 feet) |
| Lowest Point | Sea Level |
| GDP Per Capita | $47,369 (as part of the UK, 2020 estimate) |
| Life Expectancy | 77 years (men), 81 years (women) – as part of the UK statistics |
| Internet TLD | .scot (alongside .uk) |
Scotland National Anthem
Flower of Scotland
O Flower of Scotland,
When will we see your like again,
That fought and died for,
Your wee bit hill and glen.
Flags of Neighboring Countries
History of the Scotland Flag
The flag of Scotland, known as the Saltire or St. Andrew’s Cross, has a fascinating history, rich in symbolism and national pride. It is one of the oldest national flags in the world, dating back to at least the 12th century. The flag features a white diagonal cross on a blue field, representing the martyrdom of St. Andrew, the patron saint of Scotland.
According to legend, the origins of the flag date to a battle in 832 AD. Scots, aided by Picts, faced an army of Angles. The Scots were inspired to victory by the appearance of a white saltire, resembling the cross on which St. Andrew was crucified, against the blue sky.
The blue and white colors have become deeply symbolic of Scotland’s identity. The Saltire was formally adopted in the late 14th century and has undergone minimal changes since. It contrasts with the red and white of England’s St. George’s Cross, reflecting Scotland’s distinct cultural and historical identity within the United Kingdom.
The flag is not only a symbol of national pride and heritage but also of resistance and resilience. It has been a rallying point in various movements, particularly during times of political upheaval and discussions of Scottish independence. Its presence at sporting events, cultural celebrations, and political gatherings underscores its significance as an emblem of Scottish identity and pride.
