The flag of Cyprus consists of white with a copper-coloured silhouette of the island (the name
Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive
branches in the centre of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace
and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities
NOTE: the Turkish Cypriot flag has a horizontal red stripe at the top and
bottom between which is a red crescent and red star on a white field
Coat of Arms of Cyprus
The coat of arms of Cyprus depicts a dove carrying an olive branch (a
well-known symbol of peace) over “1960”, the year of Cypriot independence from
British rule. The background is a copper-yellow colour; this symbolises the
large deposits of copper ore on Cyprus (chiefly in the form of chalcopyrite,
which is yellow in colour).
When Cyprus was a British Crown Colony, local colonial officials used a coat
of arms (which were never in fact officially granted) of two lions passant
guardant, based on the coat of arms of England.
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