Country Information
| Sovereign State | Yes |
| Country Codes | GT, GTM, 320 |
| Official Name | Republic of Guatemala |
| Continent | North America |
| Capital | Guatemala City |
| Government Type | Unitary presidential republic |
| Currency | Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ) |
| Calling Code | +502 |
| Member Of | United Nations, World Trade Organization, Organization of American States, Central American Integration System, Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, Association of Caribbean States |
| Population | Approximately 18 million (as of 2023) |
| Total Area | 108,889 square kilometers |
| Highest Point | Volcán Tajumulco (4,220 meters or 13,845 feet) |
| Lowest Point | Pacific Ocean (0 meters or 0 feet) |
| GDP Per Capita | Approximately $4,600 USD (as of 2023) |
| Life Expectancy | Around 74 years (as of 2023) |
| Internet TLD | .gt |
Guatemala National Anthem
Fortunate Guatemala! Your sky is always clear,
And your countryside is rosy with the flowers of peace.
From your ancient and firm meridian,
The human race’s nest under your bright sky,
May there not be any one who dares to stain your glory!
Long live the land of the cross!
Flags of Neighboring Countries
History of the Guatemalan Flag
The flag of Guatemala, known as “Azul y Blanco” (Blue and White), was adopted on August 17, 1871. The flag consists of two vertical bands of sky blue and a white band in the center, featuring the Guatemalan coat of arms. The blue stripes represent the fact that Guatemala is a land located between two oceans, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean. The white symbolizes peace and purity.
In the center of the flag is the Guatemalan coat of arms. It includes the Resplendent Quetzal, the national bird that symbolizes liberty; a parchment scroll bearing the date of Central America’s independence from Spain, September 15, 1821; crossed rifles indicating Guatemala’s willingness to defend itself by force if necessary; and a laurel crown symbolizing victory. The coat of arms is circled by a wreath of bay laurel branches, which is an emblem of victory.
The current flag is based on the original design that was first created in 1825. Since then, Guatemala’s flag has undergone several changes, particularly in the coat of arms. The design of the flag is deeply entrenched in the country’s history, especially its independence and its position in Central America. The colors and symbols are a point of pride for Guatemalans, embodying the nation’s values, sovereignty, and rich cultural heritage. The flag represents Guatemala’s past struggles and its hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.
