The flag of Norway consists of a red background with a blue Scandinavian cross that extends to the edges of the flag. The vertical part of the cross is shifted to the left and is closer to the hoist side (the flagpole side) than the center of the flag. The cross represents Norway’s connection to other Scandinavian countries, as well as its Christian heritage. The red color symbolizes the bloodshed during Norway’s struggle for independence, while the blue color represents the sea and the sky.