Whereas other anthems recognize military victories and conquests, the Costa Rica National Anthem speaks of peace, toil, the land, and how, should anyone attempt to besmirch them, they will swap their ‘rustic tools’ for weapons in order to defend themselves. So the lyrics are not about the strength of the Country’s army; instead they refer to the strength of the people. Agriculturalists, farmers, and workers of the countryside, are heralded as the true champions of democracy and progress in Costa Rica. This true greatness is recognized in the Anthem, in the telling of how well they used what little they had to work with, to build towards their dreams.
Here are the anthem’s lyrics, which are sung only in Spanish. The translation here is provided as a guide, just to provide an understanding of the meaning.
The National Anthem of Costa Rica:
Noble Homeland, Your Beautiful Flag
Noble homeland, your beautiful flag
Expression of your life it gives us:
Under the limpid blue of your skies,
Peace reigns, white and pure.
In the tenacious battle of fruitful toil,
That brings a glow to men’s faces,
Your sons, simple farm hands,
Gained eternal renown, esteem and honor,
Gained eternal renown, esteem and honor.
Hail, gentle country!
Hail, loving mother!
If anyone should attempt to besmirch your glory,
You will see your people, valiant and virile,
Exchange their rustic tools for weapons.
Hail, O homeland! Your prodigal soil
Gives us sweet sustenance and shelter.
Under the limpid blue of your sky,
May peaceful labor ever continue!