The flag of Santiago de Cali, affectionately known simply as the Cali Flag, is not just a piece of colored cloth. It is one of the most beloved and representative emblems of this vibrant, warm, and lively city, which is the capital of Valle del Cauca. Its design, simple in appearance, holds within each stripe a history of struggle, hope, and pride that defines Cali’s identity.
The Flag of Santiago de Cali (Flag of Cali): A symbol that flies with the spirit of Cali
This symbol was officially adopted on October 17, 1928, thanks to Municipal Agreement No. 1. At that time, Cali felt the need for an emblem that would distinguish it—one that could accompany its inhabitants in civic events, cultural events, and official celebrations. Thus, this flag was born, and today, almost a century later, it continues to fly proudly.
What does the flag look like?
It consists of five horizontal stripes of equal size, each with a color that speaks for itself:
Blue (top): The blue that waves on the flag of Santiago de Cali is not just a color: it is the serene reflection of the sky that shelters the city and the constant murmur of its rivers, with the majestic Cauca River crossing as a vital artery. This deep, clear tone encompasses more than just geography: it symbolizes the tranquility and serenity that permeates every corner of Cali and lives in the soul of its people. It is a tribute to the peaceful spirit of a city that finds harmony between nature and culture, between history and hope.
Green (bottom): Represents the hope of its people, the fertility of its fields, and the natural wealth of Valle del Cauca. It is a nod to the greenery that surrounds the city and the dreams that sprout from its soil.
White (center): This pure color symbolizes the peace, harmony, and honesty of the people of Cali. Because if there is one thing that characterizes the people of Cali, it is their warmth, their joy, and that special gift of making visitors feel at home.
Red (two smaller stripes in the center next to the white): Pays tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for the region’s freedom. It also represents the passion that beats in salsa, in sports, and in every corner of the city.
Each strip speaks to a fundamental aspect of the Cali soul, and together they form a visual narrative of what it means to live, feel, and be part of Cali.
Where and when does it fly?
The flag is not just decorative; it plays a leading role in the life of the city. You will see it flying proudly on public buildings, schools, and especially during celebrations such as the anniversary of Cali’s founding on July 25. It also accompanies official delegations representing the city in other parts of Colombia and around the world.
Much more than a symbol
Seeing the Cali flag is not just looking at three colors; it is feeling the heartbeat of a city that dances with soul. It is seeing it waving at the Cali Fair, accompanying parades, concerts, and cultural exhibitions that highlight that unmistakable flavor of being from Cali. You can also find it on murals, T-shirts, and even tattoos of those who carry their city on their skin.
In short, the Cali flag reflects the resilient, cheerful, and committed character of its people. It is a symbol that unites rather than represents. Because every time it flies, it tells the story of a city that never stops reinventing itself.
My wife’s feelings about the Cali flag
My wife’s feelings for the flag of Cali, or rather the flag of Santiago de Cali, remind her of her birth. She feels a sense of belonging to that beautiful Colombian city in the Cauca Valley where she was born.
She represents her entire past and her origins, and she feels very happy to have been born in a city called Cali, located in the Cauca Valley (Colombia).
The flag that flies in the hearts of all Cali residents
The beautiful flag of the city of Santiago de Cali (Colombia), which flies in the hearts of all Cali residents, represents the sky, the meadow, purity, blood, and love. The blue represents the sky and the seas of the homeland. The two red stripes symbolize love for Cali and the blood shed for freedom. The white color represents purity and the green color represents the fields and all the areas surrounding the city.
By the way, I recommend this link for those who are curious. For more interesting posts, don’t hesitate to visit our Hispanic Colombian Blog.