Designed byGrantley W. Prescod, a schoolteacher, winner of a national competition held for independence (1966).
Design & Symbolism
Specs plus what each color and emblem means on this flag — tap an element to reveal its meaning.
Proportions
2:3
Shape
Rectangular
Colors
Blue#00267F · Pantone 280 C
The two blue bands represent the sea and sky surrounding the island.
Yellow#FFC726 · Pantone 116 C
The central gold band represents the sand of Barbados's beaches.
Black#000000
The black trident: see the symbol meaning.
Symbols & elements
Broken trident
The trident of Neptune, taken from the colonial badge; its broken shaft marks the break with the colonial past. Its three prongs stand for the three principles of democracy.
Construction details
Proportions: 2:3. Three equal vertical bands: ultramarine, gold, ultramarine. Centred on the gold band is the head of a black "broken" trident (without its shaft).
Construction sheet
Etiquette & protocol
How the flag should be used and displayed with respect.
Specific rules — Barbados
The flag is honoured on 30 November, Independence Day.
It flies on public buildings and at official ceremonies.
Common conventions
Keep the flag clean and never let it touch the ground.
Never fly a torn or faded flag — repair or replace it.
Illuminate the flag if it stays up at night.
Never use the flag as clothing, packaging or advertising.
Dispose of a worn flag respectfully, not in the trash.
Did you know?
The "broken trident" symbolises the break from the colonial past: the old colonial badge showed Britannia holding a whole trident.
