Saint Martin is an island in the northeast Caribbean. The 87 square kilometre area is split 60:40 between the French Republic and the Kingdom of Netherlands. However, the Dutch side is more populated.
The French part is made up of the Collectively of Saint Martin, which is the northern part of the island, as well as smaller adjacent islands.
Sint Maarten is the southern part of the island and is one of the four constituent countries that form the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The divide of the island dates to 1648, following a joint reclaiming of the island where the two countries created a formal order with the signing of the Treaty of Concordia, one of the oldest treaties in effect today.
The location of the border has an interesting tale behind it. It was decided by a race between two runners from opposite ends of the island. The border was then placed at the point where the runners met, and the French runner being faster is why the Saint Martin part is bigger.
While the whole island is recognised for its gastronomy and renowned music, both sides of the island carry their own sense of individuality.
The Dutch side is known for its nightlife and casinos, whereas the French side is known for its French/Caribbean cuisine and being home to one of the largest outdoor markets in the Caribbean.
Although the Treaty of Concordia allows freedom of movement between, the is a movement for the unification of the island. A “Unity Flag” of Saint Martin was adopted on 31 August 1990 at the Preliminary Conference on National Symbols at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library in Sint Maarten.
It was created to represent both halves of the island and today you’ll find it hoisted on some houses and churches across Saint Martin.
