Faroe Islands Flag for Indoor & Outdoor Use

Celebrate the distinctive Nordic heritage of the Faroe Islands with the flag known locally as Merkið. Its red Nordic cross outlined in blue creates a striking contrast against the white background. This durable polyester flag is suitable for Faroese celebrations, homes, gardens, maritime events, schools and international displays.

Merkið and the History of the Faroe Islands Flag

The Faroe Islands flag was designed in 1919 by Faroese students studying in Copenhagen. Jens Oliver Lisberg is most closely associated with the design, which was created together with other Faroese students who wanted a recognisable symbol for their islands.

Merkið was first raised on Faroese soil in the village of Fámjin on 22 June 1919. The original flag has survived and is displayed in the church of Fámjin on the island of Suðuroy.

How Merkið Became an Official Flag

The Second World War played an important role in the flag’s official recognition. After Germany occupied Denmark in 1940, British forces occupied the Faroe Islands. Faroese vessels needed a flag that would distinguish them from ships sailing under the Danish flag.

On 25 April 1940, the British authorities recognised Merkið for use by Faroese vessels. This date is now celebrated annually as Faroese Flag Day. The flag received broader recognition through the Faroe Islands Home Rule Act of 1948.

Meaning of the Name Merkið

The Faroese name “Merkið” can be translated as “the banner” or “the mark”. It reflects the flag’s role as a distinctive sign of Faroese identity, history and culture.

Meaning of the Colors and Nordic Cross

• White background: Is commonly associated with the bright Faroese sky and the foam of waves breaking around the islands.
• Red and blue: Appear in traditional Faroese clothing and connect the design with other Nordic flags.
• Nordic cross: Reflects the Faroe Islands’ place within the Nordic cultural tradition.
• Blue border: Separates the red cross from the white field and gives Merkið its distinctive appearance.

Durable Faroe Islands Flag for Everyday Display

This Faroe Islands flag is manufactured from 115 g/m² polyester. The lightweight fabric allows the flag to move easily in the wind, while reinforced edges and double stitched seams provide additional durability. Two rust resistant brass grommets make attachment quick and convenient.

Product Features

• Traditional Merkið flag design
• White field with a red Nordic cross outlined in blue
• Durable 115 g/m² polyester fabric
• Reinforced edges for improved resistance
• Double stitched seams
• Two rust resistant brass grommets
• Water resistant material with UV protection
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor display
• Single sided print with approximately 90% visibility on the reverse
• Machine washable at up to 30°C
• Available in five different sizes
• Free worldwide shipping

Available Faroe Islands Flag Sizes

Choosing the Right Faroe Islands Flag Size

The 90 × 150 cm or 3′ × 5′ size is a practical choice for homes, gardens and standard flagpoles. Smaller versions are suitable for boats, balconies, cabins and interior walls. Larger sizes provide greater visibility at cultural festivals, community gatherings and maritime events.

Where Can the Faroe Islands Flag Be Displayed?

• Homes, gardens, balconies and flagpoles
• Faroese Flag Day celebrations on 25 April
• Ólavsøka celebrations in late July
• Faroese community and cultural gatherings
• Nordic festivals and international events
• Maritime, sailing and fishing heritage events
• Schools, universities and geography presentations
• Sporting events and supporter displays
• Flag collections and gifts for people with Faroese heritage

Single Sided Print and Reverse Appearance

The design is printed on one side of the polyester fabric and remains approximately 90% visible from the reverse. When viewed from the back, the offset Nordic cross appears mirrored.

Care Instructions

Wash the flag at a maximum temperature of 30°C using a gentle washing programme. Do not use bleach and allow the fabric to air dry. Although the material is suitable for normal outdoor display, taking the flag down during severe North Atlantic weather, storms or exceptionally strong winds can help protect the seams and extend its useful life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Faroe Islands flag look like?

The flag has a white background with a red Nordic cross outlined in blue. The cross is positioned closer to the hoist side in the traditional Nordic style.

What is the Faroe Islands flag called?

The flag is called Merkið in Faroese. The name can be translated as “the banner” or “the mark”.

Who designed the Faroe Islands flag?

The design was created in 1919 by Faroese students in Copenhagen and is most closely associated with Jens Oliver Lisberg.

When was Merkið first raised in the Faroe Islands?

It was first raised on Faroese soil in Fámjin on 22 June 1919.

When was the Faroe Islands flag officially recognised?

British authorities recognised Merkið for use by Faroese vessels on 25 April 1940. It later received broader recognition under the Home Rule Act of 1948.

Why is Faroese Flag Day celebrated on 25 April?

The date commemorates the official recognition of Merkið for Faroese shipping during the Second World War.

Where is the original Merkið flag?

The original flag from 1919 is preserved and displayed in the church of Fámjin on the island of Suðuroy.

What do the colors of the flag represent?

White is commonly connected with the bright sky and sea foam, while red and blue are found in traditional Faroese clothing and other Nordic flag designs.

Why does the flag have a Nordic cross?

The cross reflects the Faroe Islands’ cultural and historical connection with the wider Nordic region.

Can this Faroe Islands flag be displayed outdoors?

Yes. The polyester material, reinforced edges, double seams and brass grommets make it suitable for regular indoor and outdoor display.

How is the flag attached?

Two brass grommets are fitted along the hoist edge. They can be connected to compatible hooks, clips or flagpole fittings.

Is the Faroe Islands flag printed on both sides?

No. The design is printed on one side and remains approximately 90% visible from the reverse, where the cross appears mirrored.

Which flag size should I choose?

The 90 × 150 cm size is suitable for most general displays. Select a smaller flag for limited spaces or a larger version when greater visibility is required.