Honduras Flag

The two blue stripes symbolize the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans bordering Central America, as well as the Caribbean Sea, while the white represents peace, prosperity, and purity. The five stars stand for the hope of reuniting the five original Central American nations (Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Guatemala), a central political aspiration for Honduran leaders in the 19th century.

Following Central America’s independence from Spain and its later federation, Honduras adopted a flag in 1823 that included the five stars. After the dissolution of the union, the country retained elements of the federation’s flag and officially readopted its current version on 16 February 1866. Minor modifications in shade and proportion have occurred, but the flag’s core symbolism and layout have remained intact through revolutions, territorial changes, and political transitions.

A 1:2 proportioned flag featuring three equal horizontal bands. The upper and lower bands are cobalt blue, with white as the center band. The five blue stars are centered in the white field in an X configuration. The shades of blue have been standardized for official use, and some government and naval variants include the national coat of arms in the center.

Flying guidelines dictate that the Honduran flag must be raised in the morning and lowered at sunset, with damaged flags properly retired by respectful burning. It is hoisted on public buildings, schools, and during national holidays such as Independence Day (15 September) and Flag Day (1 March). During mourning periods or the death of a national leader, the flag is displayed at half-mast until officially lowered.