Uruguay Flag
National Flag of Uruguay
By Mohamadou Moctar · Last updated
What does the Uruguay flag mean?
The nine stripes represent Uruguay’s original administrative departments, inspired by the U.S. and Argentina flags, while the Sun of May represents Inti—the Incan sun god—and marks the independence movement in the region in 1810.
Uruguay Flag Display

Quick facts
- Adopted:
- 11 July 1830 (revised from 1828)
- Aspect Ratio:
- 2:3
- Capital:
- Montevideo
- Population:
- Approximately 3.5 million (2023)
Download Uruguay Flag
Free SVG and PNG. Public domain — use it anywhere, no attribution required.
Download options →Uruguay Flag for sale
Get a durable Uruguay Flag — perfect for pole, home, kids, car, office, or events.
Shop now on AmazonUruguay Flag - Description
The flag of Uruguay has nine horizontal stripes—white and blue alternating—with a white canton featuring the golden Sun of May with 16 triangular and wavy rays, symbolizing freedom and republican ideals.
Uruguay Flag – Symbolism and Meaning
Uruguay Flag - History and Origins
Designed by Joaquín Suárez and officially adopted on 18 December 1828; reduced to nine stripes in July 1830 for clarity. It fuses symbols from U.S. republicanism and regional identity.
Uruguay Flag - Design Elements
Nine equal horizontal stripes (five white, four blue), white canton with centrally placed golden Sun of May (16 rays). Colours follow typical values—hex: #FCD116 (sun), #0038A8 (blue), with white.
Uruguay Flag - Usage Guidelines and Protocol
Flown on public buildings, national holidays, and at consulates. Must be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset, and respected in good condition. National Flag Day on 11 July.
Further reading: Flag of Uruguay on Wikipedia
Flags Similar to Uruguay
The Uruguay Flag shares design elements with other national flags. These comparisons show how to tell them apart and why they look alike:
Uruguay vs Argentina
Argentina and Uruguay flags both feature blue and white horizontal stripes with a sun symbol. Compare the Sun of May, stripe count, and shared history.
Uruguay vs Greece
Greece and Uruguay flags both feature blue and white horizontal stripes, an unexpected similarity between two distant nations. Compare their designs, history, and symbolism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the colors of the Uruguay Flag represent?
The nine stripes represent Uruguay’s original administrative departments, inspired by the U.S. and Argentina flags, while the Sun of May represents Inti—the Incan sun god—and marks the independence movement in the region in 1810.
When was the Uruguay Flag adopted?
11 July 1830 (revised from 1828)
What is the aspect ratio of the Uruguay Flag?
The Uruguay flag has an aspect ratio of 2:3.