Country Information
| Sovereign State | Yes |
| Country Codes | CR, CRI, 188 |
| Official Name | Republic of Costa Rica |
| Continent | North America |
| Capital | San José |
| Government Type | Unitary presidential constitutional republic |
| Currency | Costa Rican colón (CRC) |
| Calling Code | +506 |
| Member Of | United Nations, Organization of American States, Central American Integration System |
| Population | Approx. 5 million (as of 2023) |
| Total Area | 51,100 square kilometers |
| Highest Point | Cerro Chirripó (3,820 meters or 12,533 feet) |
| Lowest Point | Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea (0 meters or 0 feet) |
| GDP Per Capita | Approx. $12,000 (as of 2023) |
| Life Expectancy | Approx. 80 years (as of 2023) |
| Internet TLD | .cr |
Costa Rican National Anthem
Noble patria, tu hermosa bandera
Noble homeland, your beautiful flag
Expression of your life it gives
Under the limpid blue of your skies
Peace reigns, white and pure.
In the tenacious battle of fruitful labor,
That brings a glow to men’s faces,
Your sons, simple farm hands,
Gained eternal renown, esteem, and honor.
Flags of Neighboring Countries
History of the Costa Rican Flag
The flag of Costa Rica was officially adopted on November 27, 1906, and it is a symbol of the nation’s ideals, culture, and natural beauty. The flag’s design and colors are rich in meaning and reflect the country’s history and identity.
The flag consists of five horizontal stripes: blue on the top and bottom, followed by white, and then a thick red stripe in the middle. The blue stripes symbolize the sky, opportunities, idealism, and perseverance. The white stripes represent peace, wisdom, and happiness. The red stripe in the center stands for the blood shed for freedom, as well as the warmth and generosity of the Costa Rican people.
The design of the Costa Rican flag was inspired by the French Tricolor during the presidency of Pacífica Fernández, wife of President José María Castro Madriz. She admired the French ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, which influenced the adoption of a similar color scheme and layout.
Since its adoption, the flag of Costa Rica has become a symbol of pride and unity for the Costa Rican people. It represents the country’s sovereignty, democratic traditions, and commitment to peace. Costa Rica is known for its abolition of the military, and the flag embodies this spirit of peace. The flag is used in official capacities, national celebrations, and at international forums, representing Costa Rica’s identity, values, and aspirations as a nation. The design of the flag has remained consistent over the years, signifying the stability and harmony of Costa Rica.