Official Palette
Symbolism
The two blue bands represent the two oceans that border Central America (Pacific and Atlantic) and the sky. The white band represents peace. The coat of arms features five volcanoes (representing the five original members of the United Provinces of Central America).
History
Adopted on September 27, 1912. It is based on the flag of the United Provinces of Central America, which used the blue-white-blue tricolor.
Construction
A 189:335 ratio. A horizontal tricolor of blue, white, and blue, with the national coat of arms centered in the white band.
Color Meanings
Country Facts
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- September 27, 1912
- Proportions
22:39 (≈1.772)
- De Jure Ratio
- 189:335
- Total Colors
- 3
- Primary Layout
- Horizontal bands
- Key Symbols
- Emblem, Text
Influences
Lookalike Comparison
Side-by-side analysis of high-confusion flags, comparing exact color shades, proportions, and historical divergence.
Direct Lookalike Comparison
Quick Tell
El Salvador centers a coat of arms; Honduras centers five stars.
Historical Divergence
El Salvador's arms flag dates to September 27, 1912. Honduras adopted five stars on February 16, 1866, and specified turquoise in 2022.
Flags with resemblance
Both are blue-white-blue. El Salvador centers its coat of arms; Honduras centers five stars.
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The motto 'Dios, Unión, Libertad' must be centered in the white band
- Must be treated with reverence during civic ceremonies
Practice
Think you know the flags of Central America? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.