19 Different Flags That Use Spiral Designs

In the world of flags, certain elements are extremely common. Stripes, stars, and crosses are everywhere, but there is a lot of diversity for anyone interested enough to look! One of the more interesting flag elements that aren’t often seen is a spiral. Today, we will look at the spiral in vexillology (the study of flags), plus see some of the people groups and countries that use it. Let’s get started!

What Do Flags With Spirals Mean?

While having a singular meaning behind putting spirals on a flag would be convenient, it isn’t the case. Instead, many different cultures and people groups use spirals for different reasons. Some flags use spirals to represent a connection with the ocean via waves (the Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan, for example), while others use spirals to represent tribal heritage (the Apalachee Nation flag, for example).

Additionally, one of the oldest symbolic meanings, especially in European countries, is the triple spiral. The triple spiral can be used to show the threefold nature of being and the spiritual journey of life. It represents the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. Each spiral is symbolic of a different stage in the journey of life, with the first representing birth, the second representing growth and development, and the third representing completion and fulfillment. The triple spiral is often associated with the Celtic Goddess, Morrigan, and the trinity of creation, preservation, and destruction. In the Celtic cultures, the spiral is known as the Triskele. It is also seen as a symbol of the threefold law of karma, where our actions impact our spiritual journey.

Let’s look at some notable flags that use spirals and see a complete list of the current flags using a spiral.

Notable Examples of Flags Using a Spiral

The Apalachee Nation Flag

The Apalachee were an Indigenous population of the Southeastern Woodlands, particularly in Florida, who resided in the region now known as the Florida Panhandle prior to the beginning of the 18th century. These people lived between the Aucilla and Ochlockonee Rivers, in the area known as the Apalachee Province, at the head of Apalachee Bay. Their flag features three spirals, each within a triangular shape surrounding a center triangle.

Ottawa, Ontario Flag

The official flag of Ottawa is highlighted by a white “O” design, symbolizing both a maple leaf and the Peace Tower and Centre Block of the Parliament buildings. The design uses blue and teal colors to represent the new City of Ottawa, symbolizing the region’s rivers and waterways and the city’s green space, trees, and parkland. The three lines unite to create a spiral in the center of the flag.

New Zealand (Proposed Design)

New Zealand proposed two rounds to change the national flag, both incorporating spirals. The spirals are likely a reference to the Koru, one of the most important symbols of Maori art. The Koru symbolizes an opening fern and represents new life, growth, strength, and peace.

Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan

Ibaraki is a prefecture in Japan located in the Kanto region of Hanshu. Its flag has the prefecture emblem in the middle, a large spiral in the shape of a white rosebud. The blue and spiral stand for the Pacific Ocean and the importance of the ocean for the coastal prefecture.

A List of Flags With Spirals

• Apalachee Nation flag
• Bercianismo (El Bierzo, provincia de León, Spain)
• Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
• Kingdom of Humanity (micronation on the Spratly Islands)
• Koru (New Zealand proposal)
• Kosovo (proposal)
• Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Ust-Ord Buriatia, Russia
• Ust-Orda Buryat Autonomous Okrug, Russia
• Andøy, Nordland (Norway)
• Balakirevo, Alexandrovsky District of Vladimir Oblast, Russia
• Burannoe, a rural settlement in Russia
• Dmitrovskoe, a rural settlement in Russia
• Karsky selsovet, Nenetsia, Russia
• Korkino, Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia
• Paola, Malta
• Flag of the Kingdom of Humanity
• Koru Nation
• Tino Rangatiratanga Maori sovereignty movement

Conclusion

The use of spirals in flags is a powerful symbol that speaks to a connection with the ocean, tribal heritage, and spiritual growth. Spirals represent the cycle of life, from the simplest to the most complex forms, and can be seen as a representation of the interconnectedness of all things. They can also be seen as a reminder of the importance of honoring our ancestral roots and finding our place in the world. Ultimately, spirals can serve as a reminder of our place in the circle of life and a reminder to strive for spiritual growth and greater understanding. It only makes sense to have them on a flag!

Up Next:

• Countries With Striped Flags
• Countries That Have Single-Color Flags
• The Flag of Canada: History, Meaning, and Symbolism

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Yuri Tkach