The Saint Andrew’s cross is an X-shaped diagonal cross, also called a saltire. Christian tradition recounts that the apostle Andrew was crucified at Patras on a cross different from Christ’s. The apostle’s association with the X-shaped cross becomes particularly clear in late medieval art; the form then enters heraldry and becomes Scotland’s national emblem.
| Form | X-shaped diagonal cross |
|---|---|
| Heraldic name | Saltire |
| Figure | Saint Andrew |
| Development | Particularly visible from the Middle Ages onward |
| National use | Scotland |
Why is Andrew associated with an X-shaped cross?
Tradition holds that Andrew was martyred at Patras in Greece and crucified on a diagonal cross. Benedict XVI recalls this tradition and explains that the X-shaped cross became Saint Andrew’s cross.
The account allows the apostle to have an instrument of martyrdom distinct from that of Christ.
When does this form become his attribute?
The Metropolitan Museum states that the X-shaped saltire became increasingly common as Andrew’s attribute from the 14th century onward.
Manuscripts, paintings, and embroideries show the apostle holding or undergoing this cross.
Why does heraldry use the cross?
The saltire is a simple heraldic figure, easy to place on a shield or flag.
The connection to Saint Andrew allows institutions under his patronage to adopt the form.
How does it become a national emblem?
Saint Andrew becomes the patron saint of Scotland, and the white saltire on a blue background becomes established as the Scottish national flag.
The British Museum holds Scottish objects depicting the saint with his X-shaped cross.
How does it differ from the Saint Peter’s cross?
The Saint Andrew’s cross is distinguished by its X-shaped diagonal. The Saint Peter’s cross is an inverted Latin cross, associated with another martyrdom tradition.
The two symbols come from different apostolic accounts.
Sources and historical background
The Metropolitan Museum of Art explains the adoption of the saltire as Saint Andrew’s attribute. The Vatican recalls the tradition of Andrew’s martyrdom on a diagonal cross.
