The national flag of the Republic of Costa Rica is a horizontal five‑band banner with a distinctive wider central stripe. It is one of the principal national symbols and appears on public buildings, at official ceremonies and on some government documents. Two main variants are in common use: a plain civil flag for general display and a state flag that includes the national coat of arms on the red band for official government use.

Design

The flag comprises five horizontal stripes in the order blue, white, red (double width), white and blue. The middle red stripe is twice the height of each of the outer stripes, which creates the flag’s characteristic proportions and visual emphasis. Technical descriptions and manufacturing specifications are provided by official sources and vexillological references for accurate reproduction; see technical guidance.

Colours and symbolism

Colours on the flag are widely interpreted as reflecting national values: blue commonly represents the sky and opportunities, white denotes peace and wisdom, and the prominent red stripe stands for the warmth, generosity and courage of the Costa Rican people and their commitment to freedom. These symbolic meanings are frequently cited in educational material and civic explanations; further commentary appears in comparative studies and public information at related materials.

Origins and history

The present arrangement emerged in the nineteenth century amid the wider context of republican movements in Central America and with inspiration from contemporary European and regional designs that favored bold horizontal bands. The pattern was established during that period and has remained the national emblem with only minor formal adjustments since then. For historical overviews and archival summaries consult historical sources.

Coat of arms and state variant

The state flag adds the national coat of arms on the red stripe. The emblem is a stylised composition that commonly features landscape elements and maritime motifs intended to represent the country’s geography and its links to both the Pacific and the Caribbean. Placement, scale and specific details of the coat of arms are regulated so that the symbol integrates correctly with the flag’s bands.

Official protocols govern display, hoisting and lowering, half‑mast observances and the flag’s use at diplomatic missions, schools and civic events. There are also specialised ensigns and banners used by maritime and military services. Guidance for correct use is issued by competent authorities and can be consulted through government publications and official channels at official guidance.

When reproducing the flag attention should be paid to the order of colours, the double width of the central stripe and, where applicable, the correct placement of the coat of arms to ensure respectful and accurate display.