The Maltese Cross traces back to crusader times, when the Knights of Malta were a serious force in the battles between Christians and Muslims over the territory of the Holy Land. In its original, simplest aspect, this cross consisted of four arrowheads of equal length, joined at the points.

The three hills represent the Christian trinity, or the union of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost in One God.

The sea surrounding these islands symbolizes Malta's status as an island state.