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Suisse, Schweiz, Svizzera, Svizra, Confoederatio Helvetica
Description of the flag
Gules, a cross couped argent.
On a red field, a white equilateral cross whose arms are one sixth longer than their width. The relationship between the span of the cross and the width of the flag has not been established, but in practice the ratio is about 2:3 or 7:10.
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Symbolism of the flag
The Swiss cross on a red field ultimately derives from a similar banner of the Holy Roman Empire, and thus has strong Christian connotations. The Swiss flag traditionally stands for freedom, honour and fidelity. (The motto "Honor et Fidelitas" was inscribed on the cross of several Swiss mercenary flags of the 18th century.) In modern times, through association with consistent Swiss policy, the flag has also come to denote neutrality, democracy, peace and refuge.
See also an article from Constuire, reporting views of Swiss citizens on the meaning of the national flag.
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