Grenada
Grenada
- Capital
- St. George's
- Population
- 112,519
- Region
- Americas
- Languages
- English
Commonly known as the 'Spice Isle,' this nation produces approximately one-third of the world’s nutmeg supply. The crop is so integral to the national identity that it is depicted on the national flag. Nutmeg cultivation began here in the mid-19th century after trees were brought from the East Indies to help satisfy the high demand in Europe. Today, the fragrant scent of mace and cinnamon often lingers in the air near the traditional processing stations.
Currency
The national currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which uses the ISO code XCD and is shared with seven other members of the OECS. It has been pegged to the United States Dollar at a fixed rate of 2.70 since 1976 to ensure economic stability across the region. Unlike many modern currencies, the older physical notes often featured portraits of Queen Elizabeth II to reflect the nation's Commonwealth heritage.
Flag symbolism
The flag features a vibrant palette of red for courage, yellow for wisdom, and green for vegetation and agriculture. A central red circle holds a yellow star representing the capital parish, while six additional stars on the red border represent the other original administrative parishes. On the left side, a stylized clove of nutmeg is displayed within a green triangle, highlighting the country's primary export. The diagonal division of the field creates four distinct triangles that symbolize the dynamic spirit of the people.
Emblem history
The coat of arms, adopted upon independence in 1974, features a central shield divided into four parts by a golden cross. At the center of this cross sits the Santa Maria, the flagship of Christopher Columbus, commemorating the European sighting of the islands. To support the shield, aবরা (Armadillo) stands on one side and a Grenada Dove on the other, representing the unique local fauna. The base depicts the Grand Etang Lake and is adorned with a scroll bearing the national motto: 'Ever Conscious of God We Aspire, Build and Advance as One People.'