All over England, the flag of St George – a red cross on a white background – can be seen fluttering in the breeze.  It has become more evident in recent years, either because of the football World Cup or the rise in right wing nationalistic sentiment in England, or maybe both. Arriving in Genova (Italy), I was surprised to see the flag of St George flying all over the place.

It does not fly in Genova because its inhabitants have become England football supporters. There is another reason for its prevalence.

According to  Wikipedia,  the flag of St George has its origin in the tenth century. It was originally associated with the Crusaders, and was adopted as the ensign of the former Republic of Genova.

In the fourteenth century Englad replaced its patron saint, Edmunds the Martyr, with St George, and his flag  became used in the country.

It is believed that when  Richard the Lionheart passed through Genoa in the thirteenth century, he adopted the flag for his ships. But to do this he had to agree to pay Genova an annual tribute. This continued to be paid until 1771.

So, it seems that British nationalists and others in England are flying a ‘borrowed’ flag. We should be indebted to both Richard the Lionheart and to the mediaeval rulers of Genova.