Monday, 31 March 2014

Flag of Cyprus

The flag of Cyprus (Σημαία της Κύπρου) came into use on August 16, 1960 when Cyprus was proclaimed an independent state.



The state flag features a map of the entirety of the island, with two olive branches below (a symbol of peace) on white (another symbol of peace). The olive branches signify peace between the Turks and Greeks. The map on the flag is a copper-orange colour, symbolizing the large deposits of copper ore on the island (chiefly in the form of chalcopyrite, which is yellow in colour), from which it may have received its name.

The flag deliberately chose peaceful and neutral symbols in an attempt to indicate harmony between the rival Greek and Turkish communities, an ideal that has not yet been realized.

This postcard was received from Merja (papermoon) (March 2014) Direct swap Postcrossing  #1 of 4

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