Thursday, May 19, 2016

Malta Flag And Its History

By Nina Clark


The history of Malta is a long and colorful one dating back to the dawn of civilization. The Maltese Islands went through a golden Neolithic period, the remains of which are the mysterious temples dedicated to the goddess of fertility. Later on, the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans and the Byzantines, all left their traces on the Islands. British rule in Malta lasted until 1964 when Malta became independent. The Maltese adapted the British system of administration, education, and legislation. Modern Malta became a Republic in 1974 and joined the European Union in May 2004.

Officially adopted on the 21st of September, 1964, the flag of Malta boasts of its unique design and rich history. The flag has the traditional colors used by the Knights of Malta which are red and white. The two colors are branded in the flag equally and vertically.

Tradition has it that the flag of Malta borrows its colors from Sicily's Count Roger whose banner was a chequered white and red flag. The flag's colors were also used by the Knights of Malta, who ruled the Island from 1530-1798. Their badge was the red flag with a characteristic whiteMaltese cross.

George Cross is considered to be the most noticeable symbol in the flag of Malta. The motto Ć¢€œfor gallantryĆ¢€ is being encircled in the cross. The cross was actually awarded to the whole population of Malta by King George VI after they have exhibited exceptional gallantry and bravery.

The colors most likely originated with the Knights of Malta, a knightly order that ruled the island during the medieval period. They fortified the island to help protect it and all of the Italy against Muslim invaders during the time of the crusades, and they used it as a base to wage a naval war against their enemies. The knights won their place in history during the great siege of Malta when the knights held out against a vastly larger force.

Viewed by a few Maltese as a symbol of British rule while Malta was still a British colony, the George Cross was sometimes omitted. The Flag Company Inc specialized in flag designs offered a special edition of decals and flags to memorize the history of Malta Flag for the future.




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