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Torsdag, Mars 5, 2026
Genua, Italien – Porto Antico, Piazza Caricamento & Piazza De Ferrari
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Genoa and the Flag of St. George - The True Story

Why do Genoa and England share the same flag? A dive into the maritime history of the Crusades and the St. George's Cross.

9/15/2025
6 min read
The flag of Genoa (Red Cross on White) flying in the wind

Walk around Genoa, and you'll see the Red Cross on a White Field everywhere. Is it the English flag? No, it's the flag of Saint George, the ancient banner of the Republic of Genoa.

The Deal with England

Legend (and some historical documents) says that in the 12th century, the English fleet asked permission to fly the Genoese flag to benefit from the protection of the powerful Genoese navy in the Mediterranean.

  • The "Rent": A fun local myth claims the Queen of England effectively owes back-rent for the copyright usage of the flag!

Where to see it best?

On top of the Porta Soprana towers or flying high on the Lanterna. It is a symbol of the Crusades and Genoa's dominance at sea.

Om författaren

Local Historian

Local Historian

Vi brinner för Italiens underskattade städer. Denna guide hjälper besökare att låsa upp Genuas hemligheter, navigera dess vertikala landskap med lätthet och komfort.

Tags

Flag
St George
England
History

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