The Slovak double cross is a silver patriarchal cross set on the central peak of three blue hills within a red shield. The form belongs to the heraldic history of Central Europe, but the Slovak national movement adopted it in the 19th century and associated it with the Tatra, Fatra, and Mátra mountains. It subsequently became the central element of the coat of arms of modern Slovakia.
| Form | Silver double cross |
|---|---|
| Base | Three blue hills |
| Mountains | Tatra, Fatra, Mátra |
| National rise | 1848-1849 |
| Status | Coat of arms of the Slovak Republic |
Where does the double crossbar come from?
The double cross belongs to an ancient Christian and royal vocabulary of Central Europe, particularly in the heraldry of the Kingdom of Hungary.
What do the three hills represent?
The Slovak government identifies them with the Tatra, Fatra, and Mátra mountains, the latter now located in Hungary.
Why did the national movement adopt it?
Slovakia adopted the sign as its own emblem during the revolutionary years of 1848-1849 to express a national identity within the Habsburg monarchy.
What is the connection with Cyril and Methodius?
Slovak authorities link the double cross to Christianity and the tradition of Cyril and Methodius, ninth-century missionaries associated with Great Moravia.
How does the law define the symbol?
The current form is defined as a silver double cross with flared arms, placed on the central hill of a blue triple relief within a red shield.
Sources and historical reference points
The Slovak government explains the three hills, the role of the cross, and the symbol’s national adoption. The Slovak Presidency provides its official description.
