Blue symbolises the sky and white the clouds or the snow-capped peaks. These traditional colours were chosen in 1797. The flag in its present form dates from 6 April 1862. The coat of arms, as depicted on the State Flag, features a crown, symbolising the sovereignty of the people, although San Marino has always been a republic. The three towers, topped with ostrich feathers, stand for the forts on the three summits of Monte Titano. The arms with motto "Libertas" dates at least from the 14th Century.