Catalonia flag patch

Size: 6.5 x 4 cm (2.56 x 1.57 inch)

The Estelada (full name Senyera estelada, "starred flag" or "lone star flag", from estel, "star") is an unofficial flag typically flown by Catalan independence supporters to express their support for either an independent Catalonia or independent Països Catalans (Catalan Countries, i.e. the territories where Catalan is traditionally spoken). The use of this flag as a protest symbol within Catalan nationalism has become more notable since the 1970s' Spanish transition to democracy. The design of the Estelada comprises the red-and-yellow bars of the Senyera, with the addition of a five-pointed star in a triangle at the hoist.

The flag dates from the early 20th century; it was most probably designed in 1918 by Vicenç Albert Ballester i Camps. It came from combining the traditional four red stripes over a yellow field of the Senyera with a blue triangle at the hoist containing a five-pointed white star, inspired by the flags of Cuba and Puerto Rico. Later designs combine the Senyera with a yellow triangle at the hoist containing a five-pointed red star. In both designs the lone star motif means Catalan independence. (source: wikipedia)