Design
It has a simple ratio of 2:3. The flag features the map of the entire island in copper color, with two green olive branches underneath. A copper-orange color may also be used for the map.
History
In 1960, the country was declared independent under the Zurich and London agreements, which was when the flag was adopted. Before this, the flags of Greece and Turkey were in use.
A design competition was held in 1960 to finalize a new flag, which followed the constitutional guidelines of not including blue or red colors. The reason was to avoid making a reference to either the Cypriot Greek or Turkish communities, which had separated in 1963, following communal violence.
Symbolism
The map is done in copper color to signify the abundance of copper in the island. The two olive branches on white are a symbol of peace, which the country has been trying to effect between the Greek and Turkish communities for a long time.
| Colors used |
Copper, Olive-green |
| Ratio |
2:3 |
| Designed by |
İsmet Güney |
| Represents |
Harmony between Greek and Turkish communities |