Challenge: have the flag of Spain use a Maltese cross

Didn't Malta get the cross from the Order?

Looks like, but other groups have used it as well.

Instead, maybe Malta is given to the Hospitallers as a "temporary base" (which becomes de facto permanent), but is still considered Spanish territory. Perhaps it is still considered a fiefdom of the Spanish crown.

Alternatively, it gets added to the Spanish coat of arms as a result of the donation, such as the Spanish monarch being rewarded as being an honorary member of the order, or something like that.
 
Alternatively, it gets added to the Spanish coat of arms as a result of the donation, such as the Spanish monarch being rewarded as being an honorary member of the order, or something like that.

If Spain starts fighting with Bonaparte a bit earlier, or if Britain captures Malta for whatever reason, it is far from impossible for the Knights Hospitaller to place themselves under the protection of the King of Spain.
 
Looks like, but other groups have used it as well.

Instead, maybe Malta is given to the Hospitallers as a "temporary base" (which becomes de facto permanent), but is still considered Spanish territory. Perhaps it is still considered a fiefdom of the Spanish crown.

Alternatively, it gets added to the Spanish coat of arms as a result of the donation, such as the Spanish monarch being rewarded as being an honorary member of the order, or something like that.
The Knights already held Malta as a fief of the Sicilian Crown. They only achieved sovereignty in the 1750's, under Grand Master Pinto.
 
I recall that back in the 1500's Spanish carvels and galleons had a red Maltese cross painted on their sails may be the Spanish navy could retain/revive the practice and later the 'navy cross' could replace the royal insignia on the flag when Spain becomes a republic.
 
Top