Design and Background
The flag of Northern Cyprus consists of:
- A white background = peace
- A red crescent and star in the center = Turkish and Islamic identity
- Two red horizontal stripes = freedom and the Turkish nation
The design is clearly inspired by the Turkish flag, but with reversed colors and added stripes.
Historical Roots of the Flag
The flag was officially adopted in 1984, after the declaration of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in 1983. The design shows the close political and cultural connection with Turkey. If you want to learn more about the Cyprus conflict and regional history, you can also read our Northern Cyprus country history page.
Meaning of the Colors and Symbols
Each part of the Northern Cyprus flag has a clear meaning:
- The crescent and star represent Turkish and Islamic identity
- The red color represents sacrifice and courage
- The white color represents peace
- The two stripes represent freedom and independence
Use of the Flag Today
Today, the flag of Northern Cyprus is used on government buildings, in schools, and during official ceremonies and national celebrations. On this page, you can also explore the flag gallery to see different styles and versions of the Northern Cyprus flag. The flag represents identity, self-rule, and political status.