Saint Andrew's Cross

St. Andrew Cross

Cross of St. Andrew

One of the most famous symbols, St. Andrew's Cross is shaped like a big X.

Saint Andrew was martyred by crucifixion at Patras in Achaea in Greece. Because St. Andrew deemed himself unworthy to be crucified on the same type of cross on which Christ had been crucified, he asked to be tied to a Crux decussata or an X shaped cross. Thus the Saltire became known as Saint Andrew's cross.

The Scottish flag proudly displays the Cross of St. Andrew. In 832 AD, King Angus MacFergus had a dream the night before a battle, where Andrew appeared to him. During the battle the next day, a saltire or x-shaped cross like that of the St. Andrew's cross appeared on the battlefield giving the Scots encouragement and causing their opponents the Northumbrians to flee the field. Saint Andrew's cross is known as the Saltire and it began to appear not only on the flags but also on the coins and clothing of the Scots.

Saint Andrew's medals depict St. Andrews cross beside him. St. Andrew medallions and jewelry are a wonderful way to honor St. Andrew and remember him as he took up his cross to follow Christ unto death.

St. Andrews Cross	St Andrew's Cross	St. Andrew Gold Cross	Saint Andrew's Cross	Saint Andrews Cross	Saint Andrew Cross

In the Orthodox an Byzantine churches the St Andres cross is shown with the slanted foot rest at the bottom.