About CR
Location
Costa Rica is a country located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.
Capital
The capital city of Costa Rica is San José.
Population
Costa Rica has a population of approximately 5.1 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Central America.
Language
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish.
Religion
The majority of the population in Costa Rica identifies as Roman Catholic. However, there is also religious freedom, and other faiths are practiced in the country.
Geography
Costa Rica is known for its diverse geography, including lush rainforests, volcanoes, mountains, and beautiful beaches. It is home to several national parks and protected areas, including Corcovado National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Arenal Volcano National Park.
Economy
Costa Rica has a mixed economy with strong agricultural, manufacturing, and service sectors. Tourism is a major contributor to the economy, with visitors attracted to Costa Rica's natural beauty, biodiversity, and eco-tourism opportunities. The country is also known for its exports of coffee, bananas, pineapples, and electronic components.
Currency
The currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC).
Politics
Costa Rica is a democratic republic with a presidential system of government. The President is both the head of state and the head of government. The country has a long-standing tradition of democracy and political stability, with regular elections and peaceful transitions of power.
Environment
Costa Rica is known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with a rich variety of plant and animal species. Costa Rica has set ambitious goals for renewable energy production and has made significant investments in protecting its natural resources.
National Items of Costa Rica
Yigüirro (Clay-colored Thrush)
The Yigüirro (Turdus grayi) is the national bird of Costa Rica. Known for its melodious song, it symbolizes the arrival of the rainy season and the country's rich biodiversity.
Guaria Morada (Purple Orchid)
The Guaria Morada (Guarianthe skinneri) is the national flower of Costa Rica. This beautiful purple orchid represents the country's natural beauty and rich flora.
Guanacaste Tree
The Guanacaste tree (Enterolobium cyclocarpum) is the national tree of Costa Rica. It symbolizes stability, growth, and the country's commitment to protecting its natural resources.
Ox Cart
The ox cart (Carreta) is a traditional symbol of Costa Rica's agricultural heritage. Historically used to transport coffee and goods, it represents the country's rural traditions and craftsmanship.
Coffee
Costa Rican coffee is renowned for its quality and flavor. It symbolizes the country's agricultural heritage, economic significance, and cultural identity.
Casado
Casado is a traditional Costa Rican dish consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and meat (such as chicken, beef, pork, or fish). It represents the country's diverse culinary traditions.
Blue Morpho Butterfly
The Blue Morpho Butterfly is one of the most iconic insects in Costa Rica, known for its striking blue wings. It symbolizes the country's rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Pura Vida
"Pura Vida" is a popular Costa Rican phrase that translates to "pure life." It represents the country's laid-back lifestyle, positive outlook, and cultural identity.
Boruca Masks
Boruca masks are traditional crafts made by the Boruca indigenous people. These colorful and intricate masks symbolize the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Costa Rica's indigenous communities.
Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica's most famous natural landmarks. It symbolizes the country's geological diversity and the beauty of its natural landscapes.
The national anthem of Costa Rica is called "Noble Patria, tu hermosa bandera" in Spanish. Here are the lyrics in Spanish and their English translation:
Noble patria, tu hermosa bandera
expresión de tu vida nos da;
bajo el límpido azul de tu cielo
blanca y pura descansa la paz.
En la lucha tenaz, de fecunda labor,
que enrojece del hombre la faz;
conquistaron tus hijos, labriegos sencillos,
eterno prestigio, estima y honor,
¡Salve, oh tierra gentil!
¡Salve, oh madre de amor!
Cuando alguno pretenda tu gloria manchar,
verás a tu pueblo valiente y viril,
la tosca herramienta en arma trocar.
¡Salve patria! tu pródigo suelo,
dulce abrigo y sustento nos da;
bajo el límpido azul de tu cielo,
¡Vivan siempre el trabajo y la paz!
Noble homeland, your beautiful flag
expresses your life for us;
under the clear blue of your sky
white and pure rests the peace.
In the tenacious struggle of fruitful labor,
that reddens the face of man;
your children, simple farmers, conquered
eternal prestige, esteem, and honor,
Hail, gentle land!
Hail, oh mother of love!
When someone tries to tarnish your glory,
you will see your brave and virile people,
exchange the crude tool for a weapon.
Hail homeland! your generous land,
gives us sweet shelter and sustenance;
under the clear blue of your sky,
may work and peace always live on!
