Flag of Guatemala
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Flag Meaning
The national flag features a central coat of arms containing a resplendent quetzal which serves as a powerful symbol of liberty and sovereignty. It includes crossed rifles and swords to signify the defense of the nation and its honor while a laurel wreath represents victory and a scroll commemorates the historical moment of independence.
Colors & Symbols
Two sky blue vertical stripes represent the Pacific and Atlantic oceans that border the territory along with the clear sky above. The central white stripe symbolizes the purity of the country and its enduring dedication to peace and integrity.
Adopted 1871
Proportions 5:8
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Country Statistics
Capital Guatemala City
Population 18M
Region Americas
ISO-2 GT
Neighboring Flags
BLZ 
SLV 
HND 
MEX Flag History
The design originally consisted of horizontal stripes inherited from the Federal Republic of Central America before a mid nineteenth century version briefly added red and yellow colors. Following a liberal revolution the nation returned to the blue and white palette but adopted vertical stripes to distinguish its identity from neighboring countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guatemala's current flag was officially adopted on 1871.
Guatemala's flag has an official proportion of 5:8.
The resplendent quetzal is the national bird and signifies freedom because it is traditionally believed that the bird cannot live in captivity.
The crossed Remington rifles represent the willingness of the people to defend their sovereignty and independence through strength if necessary.
The scroll contains the date September 15 1821 which marks the historical moment when Central America gained its independence from Spanish rule.
The flag is composed of three equal vertical bands with sky blue on the hoist and fly sides and a white band in the center containing the coat of arms.