National Symbols
Back
National Symbols

July 29 is Ólavsøka - Faroese National Day. The celebration commemorates the Norwegian King Olav the second, who played a decisive role in bringing Christianity to the Faroe Islands and who died in battle on July 29, 1030. The yearly opening of the parliament takes place that day, as it has done for the past 900 years.

The national flag of the Faroe Islands, Merkið, was hoisted for the first time on June 22, 1919.

The National Anthem of the Faroe Islands is “Tú alfagra land mítt” ("Thou fairest land of mine").

The Faroese national coat of arms, Veðrur, consists of a blue shield with a ram, a motive that dates back to the Middle Ages.

The Oystercatcher is the Faroese national bird – in Faroese called "Tjaldur".

The Faroese national flower is the buttercup – in Faroese called "Sólja".

The Faroese national dress is a recognised symbol of Faroese identity and people wear it for special occasions, such as the National Day, graduation ceremonies and weddings.

Veðramerkið

The national coat of arms of Faroe Islands.

Flag
Merkið
Read more
National Anthem
“Tú alfagra land mítt”
Read more
National Day
Ólavsøka
Read more
National Dress
The Faroese National Dress
Read more
National Bird
The Oystercatcher
Read more