| Colors | HEX Code | RGB | CMYK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sky Blue | #4997D0 | 73, 151, 208 | 65, 27, 0, 18 |
| White | #FFFFFF | 255, 255, 255 | 0, 0, 0, 0 |
The Flag of Guatemala has three equal vertical stripes colored light blue on the left and right sides, and white in the middle. A coat of arms is placed in the middle of the white stripe. The coat of arms features the Resplendent Quetzal, the national bird of Guatemala, a parchment scroll with the date of central America’s independence from Spain, September 15, 1821, crossed rifles, crossed swords, and a laurel wreath.
Meaning of the Guatemalan Flag
The light blue stripes represent the location of the country between two oceans, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. It also represents the blue sky of Guatemala. The white color represents purity and peace. The Quetzal on the coat of arms represents liberty, while the parchment scroll stands for independence from Spain. The crossed rifles represent the ability of Guatemala to defend itself by force. The cross swords represent honor, while the laurel wreath stands for victory.
History of the Guatemalan Flag
The first Guatemalan flag appeared in 1821 when Central America gained independence from Spain. The flag had the blue and white stripes without the coat of arms. It represented the federation of the five states of Central America. The flag was changed in 1851, adding red and yellow stripes on the bottom and top, to represent the pro-Spanish movement that took over the country. The modern flag came into use in 1871. The coat of arms was added to the middle of the flag.