10/04/2026
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| 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Sardinal 🇨🇷
Along with the Battle of La Trinidad, Sardinal was one of the major confrontations of the National Campaign of 1856-1857, fought in what is now the Province of Heredia, within the beautiful Sarapiquí plains.
How did the Battle of Sardinal take place?
After the victory at Santa Rosa, while the main body of the Costa Rican Expeditionary Army advanced towards Nicaragua, a column of 100 soldiers set out. They were under the command of General Florentino Alfaro Zamora — brother of former Head of State José María Alfaro Zamora — and Colonel Rafael Orozco.
They departed from Muelle de San Carlos heading towards the Sarapiquí River, in the northern plains of Costa Rica. Their mission was to occupy strategic points on this important waterway, which is a major tributary of the San Juan River.
Their goal was also to reinforce two detachments stationed there to prevent any enemy advance across these vast lands. These plains stretch from the right bank of the San Juan River all the way to the slopes of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, right in the heart of the country. This region was essential in William Walker’s plan to dominate northern Costa Rica and secure control over the vital Transit route.
On April 10, 1856, while Costa Rican troops were inspecting the banks of the Sardinal River — a tributary of the Sarapiquí — they encountered several filibuster vessels. This encounter sparked a battle that lasted for about an hour.
The filibusters, numbering around 100 men and led by American Captain John M. Baldwin, had mobilized from their base at La Trinidad (which they called Hipp Point). Their intention was to take the Costa Ricans by surprise. However, our troops were already aware of the enemy movements in the area.
Ultimately, the filibusters were bravely repelled and forced to retreat back towards La Trinidad. During the confrontation, they lost 4 men on land, an unknown number in the water, and one of their four boats. On the Costa Rican side, General Alfaro’s troops reported one soldier killed, seven wounded, and two missing in action.
Historical Significance
The Battle of Sardinal holds a special place in history as the last battle of the National Campaign fought on Costa Rican soil.
Its importance lies in the fact that it allowed us to secure a key strategic point for the defense of our territory, blocking the enemy's access to the interior of the country through this river route.
Furthermore, from this moment on, Costa Rican forces confirmed that Walker intended to invade the country through the Sarapiquí area. This valuable intelligence later proved crucial for the battles fought during the decisive second phase of the campaign, which took place along the San Juan River.
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