Sea that in the Mesozoic era separated Laurasia from Gondwanaland. The formation of the Alpine fold mountains caused the sea to separate into the Mediterranean, the Black, the Caspian, and the Aral seas.
The sun of freedom rises from the Caribbean Sea. The stars represent Costa Rica's seven provinces. Red was added to the blue and white flag to reflect the French tricolour. Effective date: 29 September 1848.