
A FASCINATING STORY
The story of how the Cyprus flag came to be is a fascinating story that not only reflects the island’s complex history but also its struggle for independence. Cyprus gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960, after a brutal five-year struggle, and the first ever president of the new Republic of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, decided that an island-wide competition would be the best way to decide the new design for the flag.

THE WINNING DEIGNER
İsmet Güney, won the competition and his design would go on to represent the Republic of Cyprus till present day. The Turkish Cypriot school teacher, who was born in Limassol, July 15th, 1923 went on to also design the island’s new currency. He also became the first Cypriot Turkish painter to open a personal exhibition in 1947, and after graduating as a fully qualified teacher in 1948, he began to work as an art teacher. He later colaborated with impressionist painter Ibrahim Çallı from 1956 to the end of the 1960’s and his works have been featured in many karma and personal exhibitions, winning numerous awards. He also produced several caricatures that were regulary published in Turkish Cyprus newspapers such as Karstiklâl and Köylü. He then went on to teach painting and art history at the Nicosia Turkish Boy’s High School until 1977. He was awarded the Culture, Art Service Award in 1986. He passed away on June 24th, 2009.


A SYMBOL OF PEACE
The winning design was chosen out of hundreds of entries and its design features a white background with a copper-yellow map of the island in the centre. Underneath the map are two green olive branches that symbolise peace, hope and the country’s agricultural roots. The copper-yellow map represents an island of copper ore, which gave Cyprus its name.

A DESIGN REPRESENTING UNITY & PEACE
The flag’s design was intended to represent the unity of the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities on the island, as well as reflect the natural beauty and resources of Cyprus. The flag was officially adopted on August 16th, 1960, and it has remained a symbol of national pride and unity for the people of Cyprus ever since.
A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE & A POWERFUL SYMBOL OF INDEPENDANCE
The creation of the Cyprus flag was a significant milestone in the country’s history, as it marked the end of British colonial rule and the beginning of a new era of independence and self-determination. The flag’s design embodies the spirit of reconciliation and cooperation between the different ethnic and cultural communities on the island, and it continues to serve as a powerful symbol of unity and national identity for all Cypriots. The creation of the Cyprus flag is a testament to the country’s rich history and the enduring spirit of its people. The flag’s design reflects the natural beauty and resources of the island, as well as the unity and co-operation between its diverse communities. It stands as a powerful symbol of independence, peace, and national pride for all Cypriots.