I Couldn't Make This UP

In doing some pre-trip research, I came across the flag of Ecuador which displays a handsome, but strangely intricate coat of arms that made me go right to Wikipedia, and so I quote:

"In the background of the oval shield is the mount Chimborazo, while the river originating from its base represents the Guayas. They both symbolize the beauty and wealth of the respective regions (Sierra or Costa). The ship on the river is named Guayas as well. In 1841 it was built in Guayaquil Caduceus representing trade and economy. On top a golden sun surrounded by the astrological signs for Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer representing the months March to July to symbolize the duration of the March Revolution of 1845 and was the first seaworthy steamship built on the South American west coast."

(gasp)

"The condor on top of the shield stretches his wings to symbolize power, greatness and strength of Ecuador. The shield is flanked by four flags of Ecuador. The laurel on the left represents the victories of the republic. The palm leaf on the right side is a symbol of the martyrs of the fight for independence and liberty. The Fasces below the shield represents the republican dignity."

By the way, here's what we know about the three stripes on the flag:

"The flag retains the three main colors of the banner of Gran Columbia, the South American republic that broke up in 1830; the yellow color represents sunshine, grain, and mineral wealth, blue the sky, sea, and rivers, and red the blood of patriots spilled in the struggle for freedom and justice."

(When I was a school kid I thought that drawing the Stars and Stripes was challenging - counting stripes and whatnot. We are SO lucky.)