Banderas

Bandera is a piece of fabric, typically rectangular, used as a symbol of a nation, organization, or idea. The plural banderas refers to flags in general in Spanish. Flags function as marks of identity, symbols in ceremonies, and tools for signaling. They vary widely in size, material, and design, and may bear colors, emblems, coats of arms, or heraldic devices. The study of flags and their meanings is vexillology.

Common types include national flags, subnational or regional flags, government or civil flags, military ensigns, and maritime signal flags. Some nations designate separate flags for civilian use and for state or military use. Many flag designs follow symbolic color choices or heraldic traditions. Maritime signal flags are used for communication at sea, with each flag representing a letter, numeral, or meaning within a system of flag signaling.

Examples of well-known flags illustrate design variety: the flag of the United States features stars and stripes; the flag of Spain uses red-yellow-red; the flag of Mexico includes an eagle and serpent on a coat of arms; the flag of Japan is a white field with a red disc. Flags can adopt simple geometric patterns, complex emblems, or historical coats of arms.

Display and etiquette surrounding flags vary by country but share common principles: flags are typically raised from sunrise to sunset, and half-mast signals mourning or respect. When multiple flags are displayed, a system of precedence governs their arrangement. Flags should not touch the ground and should be treated with respect; there are laws and guidelines governing hoisting, lowering, and disposal in many jurisdictions.

In Spanish-language usage, banderas denotes flags broadly and appears in everyday speech, literature, media, and cultural references.