Saint Barthélemy

The Flag of Saint Barthélemy

The flag of Saint Barthélemy, a French overseas collectivity, is an important symbol representing the island’s unique history and culture. The official flag is the French Tricolor, but Saint Barthélemy also uses an unofficial local flag that features the island’s coat of arms. This emblematic flag is widely recognized and reflects the island’s heritage and identity.

Saint Barthélemy Flag Clip Art Images, Background, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Saint Barthélemy Flag Image

To download an image of the Saint Barthélemy flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Saint Barthélemy Flag

The flag of Saint Barthélemy features the island’s coat of arms, which incorporates several meaningful design elements:

• Coat of Arms: The coat of arms includes a shield with three fleur-de-lis, representing France, a Maltese cross, and two pelicans, symbolizing the local wildlife. The banner underneath reads “Ouanalao,” the indigenous name for the island.
• Fleur-de-lis: These represent the historical ties with France and the island’s colonial past.
• Pelicans: These birds represent the island’s natural environment and its connection to the sea.
• Maltese Cross: This is a reference to the island’s brief period under the Knights of Malta’s administration.

The Origins and Design of the Saint Barthélemy Flag

The flag of Saint Barthélemy incorporates elements from the island’s history, blending French influence with local identity. While the official flag of the island is the French national flag, the coat of arms displayed on the local flag highlights Saint Barthélemy’s unique cultural background.

The Birth of a Local Symbol

The coat of arms, which is central to the Saint Barthélemy flag, was created to represent the island’s rich heritage, blending French colonial elements with symbols of local fauna and governance. It reflects Saint Barthélemy’s history of changing hands between various European powers before becoming a French overseas territory.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the Saint Barthélemy flag has evolved to reflect the island’s French heritage and local pride:

• Fleur-de-lis: Represents Saint Barthélemy’s historical ties with France and the importance of French culture on the island.
• Pelicans: Symbolize the island’s wildlife and its maritime economy.
• Maltese Cross: A reminder of the island’s historical ties with the Order of Malta.

The Central Design Elements

The flag’s key design elements are focused on the coat of arms:

• Shield: The shield holds symbols representing France, the island’s indigenous past, and its natural environment.
• Pelicans: A nod to the wildlife that inhabits the island, particularly around its coastal areas.

Adoption and Recognition

While the French Tricolor is the official flag of Saint Barthélemy, the local flag with the coat of arms has gained popularity as a symbol of the island’s unique identity. The coat of arms was adopted in the late 20th century as the island solidified its administrative status as a French overseas collectivity.

The Flag in Modern Saint Barthélemy Identity

Today, the flag of Saint Barthélemy, featuring the island’s coat of arms, is a popular symbol of local pride. It can be seen at government buildings, local events, and as part of the island’s branding. It is also flown alongside the French Tricolor to signify the island’s status as a French overseas territory.

The Significance of the Saint Barthélemy Flag

The flag of Saint Barthélemy is an important symbol of the island’s unique identity, history, and culture. It represents the blend of French colonial heritage and the local island lifestyle, making it a powerful emblem of pride for the people of Saint Barthélemy.

When the Flag of Saint Barthélemy Can Be Displayed

The Saint Barthélemy flag can be displayed on any occasion, often alongside the French Tricolor. It is seen during local celebrations, festivals, and at official buildings throughout the island. Its display reflects the people’s pride in their heritage and their connection to both France and the island’s rich history.

Flag Days and Celebrations

While there are no official “flag days” specifically for the Saint Barthélemy flag, it is commonly flown during French national holidays like Bastille Day (July 14) and on local celebrations that honor the island’s culture and heritage.

Saint Barthélemy Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1F7 U+1F1F1

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇧🇱

3. CSS

content: "\1F1F7\1F1F1";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const sbFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1";

// Java Example
String sbFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$sbFlag = "\u{1F1F7}\u{1F1F1}";

// Ruby Example
sb_flag = "\u{1F1F7}\u{1F1F1}"

6. Perl

my $sbFlag = "\x{1F1F7}\x{1F1F1}";

7. Python

sb_flag = "\U0001F1F7\U0001F1F1"

8. C#

string sbFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1";

9. Swift

let sbFlag = "\u{1F1F7}\u{1F1F1}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *sbFlag = @"\U0001F1F7\U0001F1F1";

11. JSON

{
  "sbFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

sb_flag=$'\U1F1F7\U1F1F1'

14. Go (Golang)

sbFlag := "\U0001F1F7\U0001F1F1"

15. Kotlin

val sbFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF7\uD83C\uDDF1"

About Saint Barthélemy

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Saint Barthélemy, commonly referred to as St. Barts, is a small island located in the Caribbean. It is part of the French overseas territories, situated near the islands of Saint Martin to the northwest and Anguilla to the north. The island’s geography features:

• Rocky terrain with hills, particularly in the central part of the island
• Beautiful beaches along its coastline
• Coral reefs and vibrant marine life surrounding the island
• Natural harbors, including the popular Gustavia Harbor
• Lush vegetation in select areas, though much of the island is arid

Saint Barthélemy Map

Area and Population

Saint Barthélemy covers an area of about 25 square kilometers, making it a small island territory. The population is estimated to be around 10,000 people as of 2023, a mix of locals and expatriates who enjoy the island’s luxurious lifestyle.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

Saint Barthélemy’s population is predominantly of European descent, mainly French. The island is also home to a smaller population of other nationalities, including:

• French citizens: the majority of the population
• European expatriates, particularly from Italy and Belgium
• Other Caribbean nationalities, working primarily in the service sector

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Saint Barthélemy”

The island was named by Christopher Columbus in honor of his brother Bartolomeo when he discovered it in 1493. It has a rich history influenced by French colonialism, Swedish rule, and its status as a luxury destination.

History

Saint Barthélemy has a unique history, from its initial discovery to becoming a Swedish colony in the 18th century, and later reverting to French control. Key historical events include:

• Swedish rule from 1784 to 1878, which left a cultural and architectural mark on the island
• Reintegration into France in 1878
• Its evolution into an exclusive tourist destination starting in the mid-20th century

Government and Politics

Capital

The capital of Saint Barthélemy is Gustavia, a picturesque harbor town known for its Swedish-influenced architecture and luxury yachts.

Government and Politics

Saint Barthélemy is an overseas collectivity of France, which means it has a degree of autonomy but remains under French jurisdiction. The island is governed by a local council, and French laws generally apply. The official language is French, and the Euro is the official currency.

Values and Culture

The culture of Saint Barthélemy is a blend of French sophistication and laid-back island life. Core values include hospitality, luxury, and environmental preservation, with a strong emphasis on tourism and the high-end service industry.

Religion

The predominant religion on Saint Barthélemy is Roman Catholicism, reflecting the island’s French heritage. The island celebrates many Catholic holidays, with small churches located across the island.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Saint Barthélemy include:

• Bastille Day on July 14
• Christmas and Easter, as widely celebrated Catholic holidays
• Other French public holidays, such as Labor Day on May 1

Demographics and Society

Language

The official language of Saint Barthélemy is French. However, English is commonly spoken, especially in the tourism sector, reflecting the island’s international visitors.

Society and Sports

Saint Barthélemy is known for its luxurious lifestyle and strong emphasis on water sports. Popular activities include:

• Sailing: The island is a major hub for yachting, with regattas such as the annual St. Barths Bucket
• Snorkeling and diving: The surrounding coral reefs offer some of the best marine experiences in the Caribbean
• Surfing and windsurfing: Popular on beaches like Toiny Beach and Lorient Beach

Safety

Saint Barthélemy is known for its safety, with very low crime rates, making it a secure destination for residents and tourists alike.

Economy and Currency

Economy

The economy of Saint Barthélemy is largely driven by high-end tourism, particularly luxury resorts, villas, and yachting. The island is known for its:

• Luxury hotels and private villas
• Fine dining, with renowned restaurants and chefs
• High-end retail and designer boutiques

Currency

The official currency of Saint Barthélemy is the Euro (€), as it is part of the French overseas territories.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Saint Barthélemy has a vibrant cultural scene, often blending French elegance with Caribbean flair. The island hosts several festivals and art exhibitions, showcasing both local and international talent.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Saint Barthélemy reflects its French roots and Caribbean setting. Popular dishes include:

• Fresh seafood, such as lobster and mahi-mahi
• French-inspired dishes, including escargot and pâté
• Caribbean flavors, with tropical fruits and spices

National Anthem

As part of France, Saint Barthélemy shares the French national anthem, “La Marseillaise.”

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Saint Barthélemy has a small airport, Gustaf III Airport, which accommodates private planes and smaller commercial aircraft. Visitors also frequently arrive by yacht or ferry from nearby islands.

Time Zone

Saint Barthélemy operates on Atlantic Standard Time (UTC -4).

Web and Phone Code

The internet country code for Saint Barthélemy is “.bl,” and the international dialing code is +590.

Saint Barthélemy: Things to See and Do

Saint Barthélemy is renowned for its pristine beaches, gourmet dining, and luxury accommodations. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Explore Beautiful Beaches

The island boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean:

• Gouverneur Beach: Known for its tranquility and clear waters
• Saline Beach: A more secluded, undeveloped beach perfect for relaxation
• Shell Beach: Located near Gustavia, famous for its unique shell-covered sand

Savor the Cuisine

Saint Barthélemy is a paradise for food lovers, with a mix of French and Caribbean flavors. Must-try dishes include:

• Grilled lobster: Freshly caught and often served with local spices
• Creole dishes: Such as accras (fried cod fritters) and Colombo (a curry-like stew)

Visit Vibrant Towns

Saint Barthélemy’s towns and villages offer charming exploration opportunities:

• Gustavia: The island’s capital, known for its luxury shopping, dining, and historic sites
• Saint-Jean: A lively area with boutiques and beachfront restaurants

Participate in Cultural Festivals

Saint Barthélemy hosts several annual events, including:

• St. Barts Music Festival: A classical music festival that draws international performers
• Les Voiles de St. Barth: A prestigious sailing regatta held in the waters around the island