Design and Background
The Swedish flag has a yellow (gold) cross on a blue background. The cross is shifted toward the hoist side, following the traditional Nordic cross style used by many Scandinavian countries.
- The blue color represents the sky and the many lakes of Sweden.
- The yellow color represents generosity, light, and the sun.
The Nordic cross design connects Sweden to other Nordic countries such as Norway, Denmark, and Finland.
Historical Roots of the Flag
The design of the Swedish flag is inspired by the Danish flag (Dannebrog), which is the oldest continuously used national flag in the world. The Swedish flag has been used in different forms since at least the 16th century.
The current shade and proportions were standardized in 1906, when Sweden separated from its union with Norway.
If you want to learn more about Sweden’s royal history and its time in the Kalmar Union, you can also read our Sweden country history page.
Meaning of the Colors and Symbols
Each part of the Sweden flag has a clear meaning:
- The yellow cross represents Christianity and light.
- The blue background represents loyalty, truth, and the Swedish landscape.
- The Nordic cross represents shared Scandinavian heritage.
The design strongly focuses on tradition, faith, and regional identity.
Use of the Flag Today
Today, the flag of Sweden is used on public buildings, in schools, and during official ceremonies and national celebrations, especially on Sweden’s National Day (6 June) and Midsummer.
On this page, you can also explore the flag gallery to see different styles and versions of the flag, including historical and modern formats useful for websites, education, and design.
The flag of Sweden is more than just a national symbol. It represents history, stability, and the strong identity of the Swedish people.
