Sightseeing - Great Metropolitan Area
Sightseeing
The Gold museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Pre-Columbian gold in the Americas, and is the pride of Costa Rica. Included in the price of admission is access to a numismatic museum displaying very rare currency in the way of coins and bills some of which date back hundreds of years.
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Museo de Oro Precolombino
The Gold museum houses one of the most extensive collections of Pre-Columbian gold in the Americas, and is the pride of Costa Rica. Included in the price of admission is access to a numismatic museum displaying very rare currency in the way of coins and bills some of which date back hundreds of years.
“During the years 1953 and 1954 the population of Costa Rica, and especially its children, was affected by a cruel epidemic called poliomyelitis, which caused the highest epidemic mortality recorded up to that date and left 2000 children with severe physical injuries.
At that time there was no appropriate institution to deal with the problems caused by polio and many other childhood diseases. For this reason, and with the objective of joining efforts and raising funds to carry out the construction of a pediatric hospital in Costa Rica, men of great vision such as Costa Rican doctors Carlos Saenz Herrera and Roberto Ortiz Brenes decided to create the Asociación Pro-Hospital Nacional de Niños (Pro-National Children's Hospital Association). This association was founded in 1954.
Little by little, and with great efforts, funds were raised through multiple activities, such as raffles, dances, various donations, loans with international institutions, the Flower Fair and all the help of the Costa Rican citizens. On May 24, 1964, the Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera National Children's Hospital was inaugurated. A great dream had become a reality.
In 1970, the members of the Association thought of creating an institution that would serve as a source of permanent financial aid to cover needs not contemplated in the ordinary budgets of the National Children's Hospital. Thus, the idea of the Amusement Park was born, which became a reality on December 18, 1981.
From that historic moment until today, Parque Diversiones has achieved a process of innovation that allows its visitors to enjoy new attractions year after year, maintaining the high commitment of healthy amusement for the Costa Rican society.
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Parque Diversiones
“During the years 1953 and 1954 the population of Costa Rica, and especially its children, was affected by a cruel epidemic called poliomyelitis, which caused the highest epidemic mortality recorded up to that date and left 2000 children with severe physical injuries.
At that time there was no appropriate institution to deal with the problems caused by polio and many other childhood diseases. For this reason, and with the objective of joining efforts and raising funds to carry out the construction of a pediatric hospital in Costa Rica, men of great vision such as Costa Rican doctors Carlos Saenz Herrera and Roberto Ortiz Brenes decided to create the Asociación Pro-Hospital Nacional de Niños (Pro-National Children's Hospital Association). This association was founded in 1954.
Little by little, and with great efforts, funds were raised through multiple activities, such as raffles, dances, various donations, loans with international institutions, the Flower Fair and all the help of the Costa Rican citizens. On May 24, 1964, the Dr. Carlos Saenz Herrera National Children's Hospital was inaugurated. A great dream had become a reality.
In 1970, the members of the Association thought of creating an institution that would serve as a source of permanent financial aid to cover needs not contemplated in the ordinary budgets of the National Children's Hospital. Thus, the idea of the Amusement Park was born, which became a reality on December 18, 1981.
From that historic moment until today, Parque Diversiones has achieved a process of innovation that allows its visitors to enjoy new attractions year after year, maintaining the high commitment of healthy amusement for the Costa Rican society.
The Jade Museum in Costa Rica is dedicated to preserving the archaeological heritage of the region, and it features the largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts in the world.
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Musée du Jade
Avenida CentralThe Jade Museum in Costa Rica is dedicated to preserving the archaeological heritage of the region, and it features the largest collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts in the world.
The Children´s Museum, interestingly enough was first housed in what was once San Jose´s main jail. Renovated since, it is now a museum offering world class galleries and more hands-on exhibits that focus on contemporary concepts in the way of technology, science, culture, literature and much more. For the kids, there is a fun house with an earthquake simulator. Not to mention a part of the museum that showcases what life was like for some of the previous residents housed therein, making the little ones think twice. The museum is great fun for you and your family or better half to enjoy.
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Musée des enfants
Calle 4The Children´s Museum, interestingly enough was first housed in what was once San Jose´s main jail. Renovated since, it is now a museum offering world class galleries and more hands-on exhibits that focus on contemporary concepts in the way of technology, science, culture, literature and much more. For the kids, there is a fun house with an earthquake simulator. Not to mention a part of the museum that showcases what life was like for some of the previous residents housed therein, making the little ones think twice. The museum is great fun for you and your family or better half to enjoy.
There are many amazing places to see in Costa Rica and a large number of those frequently visited are located in the heart of the country in San Jose. However, visitors also venture out to Santa Lucia de Barva and Heredia to take in the Museum of Popular Culture. This destination hosts quite a few important artifacts pertinent to 19th century Costa Rica culture, customs and art.
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Museo de Cultura Popular
There are many amazing places to see in Costa Rica and a large number of those frequently visited are located in the heart of the country in San Jose. However, visitors also venture out to Santa Lucia de Barva and Heredia to take in the Museum of Popular Culture. This destination hosts quite a few important artifacts pertinent to 19th century Costa Rica culture, customs and art.
“La Sabana Metropolitan Park is located in downtown San José. It is the country's largest and most significant urban park. La Sabana is considered "the lungs of San José" by Costa Ricans.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park was officially inaugurated in 1977, though its origins go back two centuries. Manuel Antonio Chapuí, the parish priest of San José at the end of the 17th century, donated several plots of land in the Mata Redonda District "in order to favour Costa Rica's interests". Since that time, the area has been used for recreation and sports activities.
Costa Rica's first president, Juan Mora Fernández, and other josefino personalities devoted themselves to provide the park with several dispositions with the aim of preserving this green area legacy.
For more than 150 years the park developed its characteristic vegetation, spurred by planting campaigns from the citizens. In 1930 this project was halted when the government decided to locate the country's first international airport within the park area. La Sabana International Airport functioned for 44 years, until the opening of the current Juan Santamaría International Airport.
During the decade of the 1960s the idea of turning La Sabana into San José's lungs was taking up again. With that goal, trees, shrubs and grass were planted. In 1977, during the Daniel Oduber Administration, La Sabana was officially classified as a Metropolitan Park. In 2001 La Sabana was declared a National Architectural Heritage, by an Executive Decree.”
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Parque La Sabana
Avenida de Las Américas“La Sabana Metropolitan Park is located in downtown San José. It is the country's largest and most significant urban park. La Sabana is considered "the lungs of San José" by Costa Ricans.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park was officially inaugurated in 1977, though its origins go back two centuries. Manuel Antonio Chapuí, the parish priest of San José at the end of the 17th century, donated several plots of land in the Mata Redonda District "in order to favour Costa Rica's interests". Since that time, the area has been used for recreation and sports activities.
Costa Rica's first president, Juan Mora Fernández, and other josefino personalities devoted themselves to provide the park with several dispositions with the aim of preserving this green area legacy.
For more than 150 years the park developed its characteristic vegetation, spurred by planting campaigns from the citizens. In 1930 this project was halted when the government decided to locate the country's first international airport within the park area. La Sabana International Airport functioned for 44 years, until the opening of the current Juan Santamaría International Airport.
During the decade of the 1960s the idea of turning La Sabana into San José's lungs was taking up again. With that goal, trees, shrubs and grass were planted. In 1977, during the Daniel Oduber Administration, La Sabana was officially classified as a Metropolitan Park. In 2001 La Sabana was declared a National Architectural Heritage, by an Executive Decree.”
Situated in La Sabana Park, which is just West of downtown San Jose and inaugurated in 1978 features artists from Costa Rica, as well as other parts of the world, and it is ideal for all ages and wallets as it is free on Sundays.
The building in itself is a work of art in terms of design and architecture. The structure, once the terminal of the previous international airport, before it was moved to Alajuela, is situated in Sabana Park, just minutes from downtown San Jose. Inside, the museum contains over 3,000 items that are housed on a permanent basis, as well as special exhibits and events that fill its galleries. Artists representative of Costa Rica and re-knowned abroad such as Zuniga, and Amighetti among others inspire visitors, and make for a wonderful early morning or afternoon get away.
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Musée d'Art Costaricien
Calle 42Situated in La Sabana Park, which is just West of downtown San Jose and inaugurated in 1978 features artists from Costa Rica, as well as other parts of the world, and it is ideal for all ages and wallets as it is free on Sundays.
The building in itself is a work of art in terms of design and architecture. The structure, once the terminal of the previous international airport, before it was moved to Alajuela, is situated in Sabana Park, just minutes from downtown San Jose. Inside, the museum contains over 3,000 items that are housed on a permanent basis, as well as special exhibits and events that fill its galleries. Artists representative of Costa Rica and re-knowned abroad such as Zuniga, and Amighetti among others inspire visitors, and make for a wonderful early morning or afternoon get away.
The Edificio Metálico is a heritage building built in 1896, located in San José, Costa Rica, in front of Parque Morazán. It is the headquarters of the Buenaventura Corrales School, one of the oldest primary education institutions in the country. It is one of the most representative buildings of the educational and industrial revolution in the country. Made of wrought iron, inspired by the design of the Eiffel Tower, it was designed and built in Belgium by architect Charles Thirion, then transported by ship to Costa Rica, where it was assembled. It was declared a relic of national historical and architectural interest on July 29, 1980.
School Buenaventura Corrales
Calle 9The Edificio Metálico is a heritage building built in 1896, located in San José, Costa Rica, in front of Parque Morazán. It is the headquarters of the Buenaventura Corrales School, one of the oldest primary education institutions in the country. It is one of the most representative buildings of the educational and industrial revolution in the country. Made of wrought iron, inspired by the design of the Eiffel Tower, it was designed and built in Belgium by architect Charles Thirion, then transported by ship to Costa Rica, where it was assembled. It was declared a relic of national historical and architectural interest on July 29, 1980.
Located in the capital city of San Jose, the Costa Rica National Museum sits directly across from the country's Legislative Assembly. The museum is situated in the Bellavista Fortress, which was built in 1917 and originally used as military barracks, specifically during the 1948 Costa Rica civil war. Tourists visiting the museum can still see hundreds of bullet holes in the walls.
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National Museum Of Costa Rica
Avenida CentralLocated in the capital city of San Jose, the Costa Rica National Museum sits directly across from the country's Legislative Assembly. The museum is situated in the Bellavista Fortress, which was built in 1917 and originally used as military barracks, specifically during the 1948 Costa Rica civil war. Tourists visiting the museum can still see hundreds of bullet holes in the walls.
This auspicious gallery incorporates the architecture of the old liquor factory between Parque España (Spain Park) and the adjacent National Library. The galleries are composed of an intricate series of theaters, libraries, art galleries and more. The emphasis is on trends in Costa Rican art, design and architecture.
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MADC
This auspicious gallery incorporates the architecture of the old liquor factory between Parque España (Spain Park) and the adjacent National Library. The galleries are composed of an intricate series of theaters, libraries, art galleries and more. The emphasis is on trends in Costa Rican art, design and architecture.
The Postal, Telegraphic, and Philatelic Museum is a diamond in the rough, and is situated in downtown San Jose in the main post office on Calle 2, Avenidas 1/3. The post office dates back to 1911 and is set against exquisite Corinthian pillars that adorn the façade. The museum is located on the 2nd floor and features some of Costa Rica´s oldest postage stamp collections, early phones dating back decades, philatelic history displays and much more. The tickets are a mere .35 cents and are actually in the form of a prepaid postcard.
Museo Postal, Telegráfico y Filatélico
Calle 2The Postal, Telegraphic, and Philatelic Museum is a diamond in the rough, and is situated in downtown San Jose in the main post office on Calle 2, Avenidas 1/3. The post office dates back to 1911 and is set against exquisite Corinthian pillars that adorn the façade. The museum is located on the 2nd floor and features some of Costa Rica´s oldest postage stamp collections, early phones dating back decades, philatelic history displays and much more. The tickets are a mere .35 cents and are actually in the form of a prepaid postcard.
f you are looking for a museum that has something for everyone, visit the Juan Santamaria Museum in Alajuela. Their comprehensive collections span the gamut of natural, cultural, historical, and artistic interests. Located in the Costa Rican city of Alajuela, the museum opened in 1980 in the space that used to be the city jail. Today, the museum also occupies what used to be an army garrison on the site.
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Juan Santamaria Historical Cultural Museum
Avenida 1f you are looking for a museum that has something for everyone, visit the Juan Santamaria Museum in Alajuela. Their comprehensive collections span the gamut of natural, cultural, historical, and artistic interests. Located in the Costa Rican city of Alajuela, the museum opened in 1980 in the space that used to be the city jail. Today, the museum also occupies what used to be an army garrison on the site.
Situated in the Western suburb of Rohrmoser, just a few minutes West of La Sabana Park, this museum houses a treasure trove of photos, documentary films and more, and is free. Appointment only.
Jewish Zionist Center of Costa Rica
39Situated in the Western suburb of Rohrmoser, just a few minutes West of La Sabana Park, this museum houses a treasure trove of photos, documentary films and more, and is free. Appointment only.
Deportivo Saprissa is a renowned Costa Rican sports club, best known for its successful football team. Based in San Juan de Tibás, San José, the club plays its home games at the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa Aymá, donning its signature purple and white colors. Despite being based in the capital, Deportivo Saprissa has a huge following not just in the city, but throughout the country and even abroad.
Founded in 1935, the club has been a mainstay in the Costa Rican first division since 1949 and takes its name from one of its founders, Ricardo Saprissa. The team is affectionately nicknamed "El Monstruo Morado" (The Purple Monster), which originated from a 1987 newspaper article referring to the team's sea of purple-clad fans and the raucous noise they generated.
With 37 Primera División de Costa Rica championships to its name, including six consecutive national titles in the 70s, Deportivo Saprissa is one of the most successful teams in the region, with three CONCACAF Champions' Cup titles, five Central American crowns, and an IFFHS ranking of 106th in the world for the period 1 September 2007 to 31 August 2008.
Deportivo Saprissa has regularly reached the finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with three first-place finishes and four runners-up finishes, and made history in 2005 by becoming the second club in CONCACAF to place third in the FIFA Club World Cup. The club was also named the CONCACAF team of the 20th Century by the IFFHS, giving it worldwide recognition.
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Stade Ricardo Saprissa
Deportivo Saprissa is a renowned Costa Rican sports club, best known for its successful football team. Based in San Juan de Tibás, San José, the club plays its home games at the Estadio Ricardo Saprissa Aymá, donning its signature purple and white colors. Despite being based in the capital, Deportivo Saprissa has a huge following not just in the city, but throughout the country and even abroad.
Founded in 1935, the club has been a mainstay in the Costa Rican first division since 1949 and takes its name from one of its founders, Ricardo Saprissa. The team is affectionately nicknamed "El Monstruo Morado" (The Purple Monster), which originated from a 1987 newspaper article referring to the team's sea of purple-clad fans and the raucous noise they generated.
With 37 Primera División de Costa Rica championships to its name, including six consecutive national titles in the 70s, Deportivo Saprissa is one of the most successful teams in the region, with three CONCACAF Champions' Cup titles, five Central American crowns, and an IFFHS ranking of 106th in the world for the period 1 September 2007 to 31 August 2008.
Deportivo Saprissa has regularly reached the finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with three first-place finishes and four runners-up finishes, and made history in 2005 by becoming the second club in CONCACAF to place third in the FIFA Club World Cup. The club was also named the CONCACAF team of the 20th Century by the IFFHS, giving it worldwide recognition.
An increasingly fun and popular place on Saturday mornings in San José is the outdoor Aranjuez Green Market (Fería Verde Aranjuez). The atmosphere is a combination of "laid-back, relaxed" with dynamic market shopping. It is kind of a classic European or American country fair/farmer’s market with a distinct Costa Rican tropical twist. It is open from 7 am-12:30 on Saturdays and operates on a first-come, first sell philosophy. Avoid getting there too late! From Aranjuez, you can spend the rest of your Saturday on your own, self-paced walking tour around downtown San José.
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Green Fair Aranjuez
Calle 19An increasingly fun and popular place on Saturday mornings in San José is the outdoor Aranjuez Green Market (Fería Verde Aranjuez). The atmosphere is a combination of "laid-back, relaxed" with dynamic market shopping. It is kind of a classic European or American country fair/farmer’s market with a distinct Costa Rican tropical twist. It is open from 7 am-12:30 on Saturdays and operates on a first-come, first sell philosophy. Avoid getting there too late! From Aranjuez, you can spend the rest of your Saturday on your own, self-paced walking tour around downtown San José.
Parque Nacional Simón Bolívar (Zoológico Simón Bolívar) is an urban park of approximately 14 hectares, located in downtown San José, Costa Rica. It is the oldest botanical garden and zoo in Costa Rica. The name pays homage to Latin American national founder Simón Bolívar. It is administered by a conservation nonprofit foundation called Fundazoo. All animals in the zoo are orphaned, injured or have been disabled and are nursed back to health in hopes of releasing them.
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Zoológico y Jardín Botánico Nacional Simón Bolívar Park
Parque Nacional Simón Bolívar (Zoológico Simón Bolívar) is an urban park of approximately 14 hectares, located in downtown San José, Costa Rica. It is the oldest botanical garden and zoo in Costa Rica. The name pays homage to Latin American national founder Simón Bolívar. It is administered by a conservation nonprofit foundation called Fundazoo. All animals in the zoo are orphaned, injured or have been disabled and are nursed back to health in hopes of releasing them.
The 1,140-seat National Theatre of Costa Rica (Spanish: Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica) is Costa Rica's national theatre, located in the central section of San José. Construction began in 1891, and it opened to the public on 21 October 1897 with a performance of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's Faust.
The National Theatre stood as a cultural asset of the country during a time when coffee exports were a source of its success. It presents high quality performances, with artistic criteria being very high.
The building is considered the finest historic building in the capital, and it is known for its exquisite interior which includes its lavish furnishings.
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Teatro Nacional Costa Rica
Calle 5The 1,140-seat National Theatre of Costa Rica (Spanish: Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica) is Costa Rica's national theatre, located in the central section of San José. Construction began in 1891, and it opened to the public on 21 October 1897 with a performance of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's Faust.
The National Theatre stood as a cultural asset of the country during a time when coffee exports were a source of its success. It presents high quality performances, with artistic criteria being very high.
The building is considered the finest historic building in the capital, and it is known for its exquisite interior which includes its lavish furnishings.
San José Central Market (Spanish: Mercado central) is the largest market of the city of San José, Costa Rica. Established in 1880, it occupies an entire block on Avenida Central, 250m northwest of the Parque Central.
The market contains a complex of narrow alleys with over 200 shops, stalls, and cheap restaurants called sodas. A huge range of meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, coffees, and other products are for sale including snakeskin boots and cowboy saddles, herbal remedies, flowers, cooked meals, souvenirs, and local handcrafts. Tens of thousands of people visit the market daily.
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San José Central Market
Avenida CentralSan José Central Market (Spanish: Mercado central) is the largest market of the city of San José, Costa Rica. Established in 1880, it occupies an entire block on Avenida Central, 250m northwest of the Parque Central.
The market contains a complex of narrow alleys with over 200 shops, stalls, and cheap restaurants called sodas. A huge range of meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, coffees, and other products are for sale including snakeskin boots and cowboy saddles, herbal remedies, flowers, cooked meals, souvenirs, and local handcrafts. Tens of thousands of people visit the market daily.
Poás Volcano National Park, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, covers approximately 65 square kilometers (16,000 acres) and has an elevation of 2,700 meters (8,900 ft). It was established as a national park on January 25, 1971. Visitors can usually walk to the edge of the main crater, which is 290 meters (950 ft) wide and is frequently active with small geyser and lava eruptions.
There are two additional craters in the park: the Von Frantzuis crater, which is extinct, and the Botos crater, which has not erupted in approximately 7,500 years. Visitors can access well-marked trails to both inactive craters, conditions permitting. Lake Botos, a cold and green water crater lake with a diameter of 370 meters (1,200 ft), is located in the Botos crater.
If you plan to visit Poás Volcano National Park, be sure to check current conditions before you go, as the status of the park can change quickly. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and unique geological formations, but safety should always be a top priority when visiting an active volcano.
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Poás Volcano
Poás Volcano National Park, located in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, covers approximately 65 square kilometers (16,000 acres) and has an elevation of 2,700 meters (8,900 ft). It was established as a national park on January 25, 1971. Visitors can usually walk to the edge of the main crater, which is 290 meters (950 ft) wide and is frequently active with small geyser and lava eruptions.
There are two additional craters in the park: the Von Frantzuis crater, which is extinct, and the Botos crater, which has not erupted in approximately 7,500 years. Visitors can access well-marked trails to both inactive craters, conditions permitting. Lake Botos, a cold and green water crater lake with a diameter of 370 meters (1,200 ft), is located in the Botos crater.
If you plan to visit Poás Volcano National Park, be sure to check current conditions before you go, as the status of the park can change quickly. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and unique geological formations, but safety should always be a top priority when visiting an active volcano.
Chirripó National Park is a protected area in Costa Rica, established in 1975, that spans parts of three provinces: San José, Limón, and Cartago. Its most notable feature is Cerro Chirripó, the highest mountain in the country at 3,820 m (12,530 ft), which is also the 38th most prominent peak in the world.
The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including lowland tropical wet forest, premontane tropical wet forest, lower montane wet forest, montane wet forest, and subalpine wet forest (páramo), as categorized by Holdridge life zones. The majority of the park consists of primary rain and cloud forests, with the landscape changing to wet desert around 2,740 m (8,990 ft).
To reach the summit of Cerro Chirripó, visitors must first embark on a 16.5 km (10.3 mi) uphill hike from the town of San Gerardo de Rivas to the park ranger's refuge in the Los Crestones sector. From there, a 5 km (3.1 mi) walk is required to reach the peak.
Chirripó National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica, from dense tropical forests to high-altitude wetlands. However, visitors should come prepared for a challenging hike and changing weather conditions, as well as respecting the park's conservation efforts to preserve the area's delicate ecosystems.
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Parc national de Chirripó
Chirripó National Park is a protected area in Costa Rica, established in 1975, that spans parts of three provinces: San José, Limón, and Cartago. Its most notable feature is Cerro Chirripó, the highest mountain in the country at 3,820 m (12,530 ft), which is also the 38th most prominent peak in the world.
The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including lowland tropical wet forest, premontane tropical wet forest, lower montane wet forest, montane wet forest, and subalpine wet forest (páramo), as categorized by Holdridge life zones. The majority of the park consists of primary rain and cloud forests, with the landscape changing to wet desert around 2,740 m (8,990 ft).
To reach the summit of Cerro Chirripó, visitors must first embark on a 16.5 km (10.3 mi) uphill hike from the town of San Gerardo de Rivas to the park ranger's refuge in the Los Crestones sector. From there, a 5 km (3.1 mi) walk is required to reach the peak.
Chirripó National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica, from dense tropical forests to high-altitude wetlands. However, visitors should come prepared for a challenging hike and changing weather conditions, as well as respecting the park's conservation efforts to preserve the area's delicate ecosystems.
Irazú Volcano National Park, also known as Parque Nacional Volcán Irazú in Spanish, is located in the Central Conservation Area of Costa Rica, surrounding the Irazú Volcano in Cartago Province. The park includes what was once the Ruben Torres Rojas Forest Reserve, now called the Prusia Forest Reserve.
While the volcano is still active, with occasional minor eruptions and small lava flows, the last major eruptions occurred between 1963 and 1965. The park has been the site of a reforestation project aimed at restoring the area, which was destroyed during the eruptions. The forest includes a mix of conifers and other exotic and native species, as well as a native forest mainly consisting of oaks and alder. This helps protect the watershed of the Reventado River.
The Crater Principal lake is a unique greenish-yellow color caused by minerals along the crater walls dissolving in the rainfall. The color can also change to rust-red, depending on the minerals present. The inactive Diego de la Haya crater, filled with volcanic ash, is located to the east of the Crater Principal.
Irazú Volcano National Park offers a fascinating opportunity to witness the effects of volcanic activity on the surrounding environment, as well as the ongoing restoration efforts. Visitors can explore the diverse forests, observe the colorful crater lake, and learn about the park's conservation efforts. However, visitors should be aware of the potential for volcanic activity and weather changes, as well as respecting the park's rules and regulations to help protect the delicate ecosystem.
Parc national du volcan Irazú
Irazú Volcano National Park, also known as Parque Nacional Volcán Irazú in Spanish, is located in the Central Conservation Area of Costa Rica, surrounding the Irazú Volcano in Cartago Province. The park includes what was once the Ruben Torres Rojas Forest Reserve, now called the Prusia Forest Reserve.
While the volcano is still active, with occasional minor eruptions and small lava flows, the last major eruptions occurred between 1963 and 1965. The park has been the site of a reforestation project aimed at restoring the area, which was destroyed during the eruptions. The forest includes a mix of conifers and other exotic and native species, as well as a native forest mainly consisting of oaks and alder. This helps protect the watershed of the Reventado River.
The Crater Principal lake is a unique greenish-yellow color caused by minerals along the crater walls dissolving in the rainfall. The color can also change to rust-red, depending on the minerals present. The inactive Diego de la Haya crater, filled with volcanic ash, is located to the east of the Crater Principal.
Irazú Volcano National Park offers a fascinating opportunity to witness the effects of volcanic activity on the surrounding environment, as well as the ongoing restoration efforts. Visitors can explore the diverse forests, observe the colorful crater lake, and learn about the park's conservation efforts. However, visitors should be aware of the potential for volcanic activity and weather changes, as well as respecting the park's rules and regulations to help protect the delicate ecosystem.
The Ruins of Ujarrás National Monument in Costa Rica is a colonial church made of limestone and stone, with a clay tile roof. The ruins are the sole remains of the first church built during the seventeenth century, and are considered a valuable relic of the colonial era. The site, once home to the Huetar Indians, was abandoned in 1833 due to various fever epidemics. The town was later repopulated by mestizos, including Florencio del Castillo, a prominent figure who helped establish Ujarrás as a town in 1813. In April, locals still celebrate a pilgrimage in honor of the venerated image of Ujarrás.
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Ruines d'Ujarrás
The Ruins of Ujarrás National Monument in Costa Rica is a colonial church made of limestone and stone, with a clay tile roof. The ruins are the sole remains of the first church built during the seventeenth century, and are considered a valuable relic of the colonial era. The site, once home to the Huetar Indians, was abandoned in 1833 due to various fever epidemics. The town was later repopulated by mestizos, including Florencio del Castillo, a prominent figure who helped establish Ujarrás as a town in 1813. In April, locals still celebrate a pilgrimage in honor of the venerated image of Ujarrás.
The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles (Our Lady of the Angels Basilica) is a Roman Catholic basilica in Cartago, Costa Rica, dedicated to the Virgen de los Ángeles (the Lady of the Angels), also known as Virgen de los Pardos. The basilica was built in 1639, suffered earthquake damage, and was restored with a unique blend of colonial and Byzantine architectural styles in 1939.
The basilica's main altar displays a small representation of the Virgin Mary carrying the infant Jesus, known as the Negrita or Reina de Cartago. The original statue is kept in a golden shell within the basilica. The Virgin of the Angels is the official patron of Costa Rica.
From July 30th to August 2nd, the basilica is visited by up to two and a half million believers, who walk up to 22 kilometers from San José and other communities in a pilgrimage called the Romería. Some choose to crawl on their hands and knees as a demonstration of piety. At the basilica, people wash themselves and drink water from the rock where the statue was found, which scientists have found to be safe to drink.
The basilica is open all day for prayer and the faithful leave small silver medals representing body parts in front of the Negrita, hoping for healing. These medals are collected and stored in a museum on the same site.
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Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles
Calle 1The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles (Our Lady of the Angels Basilica) is a Roman Catholic basilica in Cartago, Costa Rica, dedicated to the Virgen de los Ángeles (the Lady of the Angels), also known as Virgen de los Pardos. The basilica was built in 1639, suffered earthquake damage, and was restored with a unique blend of colonial and Byzantine architectural styles in 1939.
The basilica's main altar displays a small representation of the Virgin Mary carrying the infant Jesus, known as the Negrita or Reina de Cartago. The original statue is kept in a golden shell within the basilica. The Virgin of the Angels is the official patron of Costa Rica.
From July 30th to August 2nd, the basilica is visited by up to two and a half million believers, who walk up to 22 kilometers from San José and other communities in a pilgrimage called the Romería. Some choose to crawl on their hands and knees as a demonstration of piety. At the basilica, people wash themselves and drink water from the rock where the statue was found, which scientists have found to be safe to drink.
The basilica is open all day for prayer and the faithful leave small silver medals representing body parts in front of the Negrita, hoping for healing. These medals are collected and stored in a museum on the same site.
The Ruins of Cartago are the remains of an unfinished parish church of Santiago Apostle in the city of Cartago, Costa Rica. Located east of the Plaza Mayor, the Romanesque temple's construction began in the second half of the 19th century but was interrupted by three earthquakes, including the Santa Monica earthquake on May 4, 1910. Though not true ruins, the site remains a popular attraction for visitors and adds character to the city center.
18 recommandé par les habitants
Ruines de Cartago
Calle 0The Ruins of Cartago are the remains of an unfinished parish church of Santiago Apostle in the city of Cartago, Costa Rica. Located east of the Plaza Mayor, the Romanesque temple's construction began in the second half of the 19th century but was interrupted by three earthquakes, including the Santa Monica earthquake on May 4, 1910. Though not true ruins, the site remains a popular attraction for visitors and adds character to the city center.
The Sanatorio Durán, now a recreational park, was a first-world hospital that accommodated about 300 tuberculosis patients in Cartago, Costa Rica. Founded in 1918 by physician and politician Carlos Durán Cartín, it is located 7 km north of Cartago and 18 km southeast of the Irazu volcano, at an altitude of 2335 meters above sea level.
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Sanatorium Dr. Carlos Duran Cartin
219The Sanatorio Durán, now a recreational park, was a first-world hospital that accommodated about 300 tuberculosis patients in Cartago, Costa Rica. Founded in 1918 by physician and politician Carlos Durán Cartín, it is located 7 km north of Cartago and 18 km southeast of the Irazu volcano, at an altitude of 2335 meters above sea level.
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, formerly known as Zooave, is a non-profit foundation with 30 years of experience in conserving Costa Rica's wildlife. Located in Alajuela, just 20 minutes away from SJO Airport, Rescate is dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned, injured, or confiscated animals in their Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and releasing them back into the wild. They also have a wildlife sanctuary for animals that cannot survive in the wild, which is open to the public. Rescate's animal conservation center has breeding programs that protect endangered species from extinction, and they receive about 2700 animals annually, releasing the majority of them back into the wild. Visitors to the animal sanctuary can see over 800 rescued animals, including sloths, monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, birds, and reptiles, in large, naturally designed enclosures that offer the animals quality of life and enrichment. Donations are crucial to support Rescate's critical mission.
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Zoo Ave
Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, formerly known as Zooave, is a non-profit foundation with 30 years of experience in conserving Costa Rica's wildlife. Located in Alajuela, just 20 minutes away from SJO Airport, Rescate is dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned, injured, or confiscated animals in their Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and releasing them back into the wild. They also have a wildlife sanctuary for animals that cannot survive in the wild, which is open to the public. Rescate's animal conservation center has breeding programs that protect endangered species from extinction, and they receive about 2700 animals annually, releasing the majority of them back into the wild. Visitors to the animal sanctuary can see over 800 rescued animals, including sloths, monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, birds, and reptiles, in large, naturally designed enclosures that offer the animals quality of life and enrichment. Donations are crucial to support Rescate's critical mission.
La Paz, or "the peace" in Spanish, is a stunning waterfall located in central Costa Rica, also known as Catarata de La Paz. Easily accessible from Route 126, it is situated 31 kilometers (19 miles) north of Alajuela, between Vara Blanca and Cinchona.
The waterfall is formed by the River La Paz, which travels through 8 kilometers (5 miles) of volcanic terrain before cascading down the falls and continuing through the rainforest of the eastern side of Poás Volcano. Visitors can follow a short path that leads behind the waterfall, where a small shrine used to be located. Upstream from the waterfall is La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a hotel and park that provides the opportunity to observe many different species of local wildlife.
Although the area was severely damaged in the 6.1 magnitude earthquake of January 8, 2009, the road that runs alongside the waterfall has since been fixed and now offers a great roadside stop for photos and souvenirs.
288 recommandé par les habitants
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
La Paz, or "the peace" in Spanish, is a stunning waterfall located in central Costa Rica, also known as Catarata de La Paz. Easily accessible from Route 126, it is situated 31 kilometers (19 miles) north of Alajuela, between Vara Blanca and Cinchona.
The waterfall is formed by the River La Paz, which travels through 8 kilometers (5 miles) of volcanic terrain before cascading down the falls and continuing through the rainforest of the eastern side of Poás Volcano. Visitors can follow a short path that leads behind the waterfall, where a small shrine used to be located. Upstream from the waterfall is La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a hotel and park that provides the opportunity to observe many different species of local wildlife.
Although the area was severely damaged in the 6.1 magnitude earthquake of January 8, 2009, the road that runs alongside the waterfall has since been fixed and now offers a great roadside stop for photos and souvenirs.
The Lankester Botanical Gardens, also called the Jardín Botánico Lankester or Charles H. Lankester Botanical Garden, is a research center and popular orchid research center in Central America and the Caribbean. Located outside of Cartago, Costa Rica, the garden covers 11 hectares and is home to over 3,000 species of plants, including orchids and bromeliads. The garden was founded by Charles H. Lankester in 1910 after he moved from England to Costa Rica and began collecting orchids. Lankester created El Silvestre, an area reserved for orchids and other tropical plants, on a coffee farm he bought in 1924. In 1973, the University of Costa Rica purchased the farm from Lankester's daughter, Dorothy, and turned it into a botanical garden. The garden was designated a National Center for the Conservation of Flora and National Epiphyte Sanctuary by the Environmental Ministry in 2005.
50 recommandé par les habitants
Jardin Botanico Lankester
The Lankester Botanical Gardens, also called the Jardín Botánico Lankester or Charles H. Lankester Botanical Garden, is a research center and popular orchid research center in Central America and the Caribbean. Located outside of Cartago, Costa Rica, the garden covers 11 hectares and is home to over 3,000 species of plants, including orchids and bromeliads. The garden was founded by Charles H. Lankester in 1910 after he moved from England to Costa Rica and began collecting orchids. Lankester created El Silvestre, an area reserved for orchids and other tropical plants, on a coffee farm he bought in 1924. In 1973, the University of Costa Rica purchased the farm from Lankester's daughter, Dorothy, and turned it into a botanical garden. The garden was designated a National Center for the Conservation of Flora and National Epiphyte Sanctuary by the Environmental Ministry in 2005.
Entering the east side of the Parque Central in Alajuela, you cannot miss this marble church with its gardens, red dome and the red fence that encircles it. Founded in 1854, the church is a large structure that is well worth visiting for its architectural style if not for its religious significance. While the interior of the church is simple, you will see that the pulpit features ornate and unique design.
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Cathédrale d'Alajuela
Bernardo Soto AlfaroEntering the east side of the Parque Central in Alajuela, you cannot miss this marble church with its gardens, red dome and the red fence that encircles it. Founded in 1854, the church is a large structure that is well worth visiting for its architectural style if not for its religious significance. While the interior of the church is simple, you will see that the pulpit features ornate and unique design.
Los Chorros Waterfalls are located between the small towns of Chilamate and Tacares, just southeast of Grecia. They sit in the Los Chorros Municipal Recreation Park (Parque Recreativo Municipal Los Chorros). This park protects a sizable swath of jungle in what is otherwise an area full of farm fields and pastures. It also serves as an important drinking water source for nearby towns like Atenas.
Translating to “the Jets,” Los Chorros gets its name from the many small but strong streams of water that pour from the hillside and rocks. The pipes that carry this naturally pressurized water to neighboring towns can be seen along the trail, but the real attraction here are the waterfalls.
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Los Chorros Municipal Recreative Park
Los Chorros Waterfalls are located between the small towns of Chilamate and Tacares, just southeast of Grecia. They sit in the Los Chorros Municipal Recreation Park (Parque Recreativo Municipal Los Chorros). This park protects a sizable swath of jungle in what is otherwise an area full of farm fields and pastures. It also serves as an important drinking water source for nearby towns like Atenas.
Translating to “the Jets,” Los Chorros gets its name from the many small but strong streams of water that pour from the hillside and rocks. The pipes that carry this naturally pressurized water to neighboring towns can be seen along the trail, but the real attraction here are the waterfalls.
Located just a block from the central park, the Central Market in Alajuela, Costa Rica is a vibrant and bustling place that should not be missed. This market is as old as the city itself, with both being founded in 1782. It has always been a place where locals shop for their daily needs, but in recent decades, it has also become a popular tourist spot. Covering about 25,149 sq. ft., the Central Market houses over 200 merchant businesses. Here, you can find a wide variety of goods and products. From sodas (diners) and spices to butcheries and fish markets, the market has everything you need for a delicious meal. You can also find stores repairing or selling jewelry, watches, and clocks, as well as clothing stores, shoe shops, and vegetable vendors. The market even offers leather goods, feed for livestock, agricultural tools, and kitchen utensils. The Central Market is a true reflection of the local culture and provides an authentic shopping experience. The meat and vegetable shops open as early as 6:00 am, ensuring that you can get fresh produce for your meals. The stores selling clothes, watches, shoes, and other items may open a little later, but they offer a wide range of options to choose from. Visiting the Central Market in Alajuela is not only a great way to experience the local way of life but also an opportunity to support small businesses and artisans.
24 recommandé par les habitants
Central Market Alajuela
Avenida CentralLocated just a block from the central park, the Central Market in Alajuela, Costa Rica is a vibrant and bustling place that should not be missed. This market is as old as the city itself, with both being founded in 1782. It has always been a place where locals shop for their daily needs, but in recent decades, it has also become a popular tourist spot. Covering about 25,149 sq. ft., the Central Market houses over 200 merchant businesses. Here, you can find a wide variety of goods and products. From sodas (diners) and spices to butcheries and fish markets, the market has everything you need for a delicious meal. You can also find stores repairing or selling jewelry, watches, and clocks, as well as clothing stores, shoe shops, and vegetable vendors. The market even offers leather goods, feed for livestock, agricultural tools, and kitchen utensils. The Central Market is a true reflection of the local culture and provides an authentic shopping experience. The meat and vegetable shops open as early as 6:00 am, ensuring that you can get fresh produce for your meals. The stores selling clothes, watches, shoes, and other items may open a little later, but they offer a wide range of options to choose from. Visiting the Central Market in Alajuela is not only a great way to experience the local way of life but also an opportunity to support small businesses and artisans.
Since 1991 Cafe Britt Coffee Tour has educated and entertained nearly 1 million coffee loving visitors. They are immersed in a colorful journey through our working plantation and roastery inside one of our coffee plantations.
At the Cafe Britt Coffee Tour our experts lead the way on an enjoyable journey through the world of coffee. Discover coffee's colorful history and the process that transforms the red coffee cherry into the delicious morning brew.
Cafe Britt Coffee Tour is located in Heredia, only 25 minutes away from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Daily tours start at 9:00 am. Advanced reservation required. Our roastery campus and facilities include: Lush green areas and colorful gardens; Restrooms and pathways suitable to people of all ages and physical abilities; On-site restaurant; Plenty of secure parking; Factory store with coffee, chocolates, cookies & more; Door-to-door international coffee delivery service via courier.
48 recommandé par les habitants
Britt Coffee Tour
Since 1991 Cafe Britt Coffee Tour has educated and entertained nearly 1 million coffee loving visitors. They are immersed in a colorful journey through our working plantation and roastery inside one of our coffee plantations.
At the Cafe Britt Coffee Tour our experts lead the way on an enjoyable journey through the world of coffee. Discover coffee's colorful history and the process that transforms the red coffee cherry into the delicious morning brew.
Cafe Britt Coffee Tour is located in Heredia, only 25 minutes away from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Daily tours start at 9:00 am. Advanced reservation required. Our roastery campus and facilities include: Lush green areas and colorful gardens; Restrooms and pathways suitable to people of all ages and physical abilities; On-site restaurant; Plenty of secure parking; Factory store with coffee, chocolates, cookies & more; Door-to-door international coffee delivery service via courier.
Fortín de Heredia (Fort of Heredia) is located in Heredia’s downtown. It is a 13 meters high solid building that stands out from the rest of the city’s buildings. This military building that has never been used for military purposes has become Heredia’s most symbolic spot. Heredia’s Small Fort was originally the lookout tower of a military headquarters that was never finished. The small fort was commissioned in 1876 during president Tomás Guardia Gutiérrez’s rule, and the works were designed and directed by Fadrique Gutiérrez, local commander and governor of Heredia province. It seems that the original design was much more impressive: they had planned a four-tower building, but this idea was not completed due to the scarcity of economic resources.
The structure of the small fort was made of bricks and stones, and it has three different parts. The six meters high base is rectangular with a flat, oval-corner ledge. When it was built, this building had three entrance doors on its sides, but the one in the southern side is bricked up now. Over the door there are two rows of small windows, four in the upper and three in the lower one, all of them symmetrically placed. The function of these small windows was to serve as a hole through which temporarily put out cannons or weapons to fire with absolute certainty. But, surprisingly, these small windows are built backwards, with the widest part on the outside. It is not clear if this singularity is related to an unknown function or it was just a mistake. Apart from the base, the other two differentiated parts of the small fort are a 5-meter high cylinder that also has small windows and the smallest one which is 2 meters high and is separated by a double octogonal ledge.
El Fortín
Fortín de Heredia (Fort of Heredia) is located in Heredia’s downtown. It is a 13 meters high solid building that stands out from the rest of the city’s buildings. This military building that has never been used for military purposes has become Heredia’s most symbolic spot. Heredia’s Small Fort was originally the lookout tower of a military headquarters that was never finished. The small fort was commissioned in 1876 during president Tomás Guardia Gutiérrez’s rule, and the works were designed and directed by Fadrique Gutiérrez, local commander and governor of Heredia province. It seems that the original design was much more impressive: they had planned a four-tower building, but this idea was not completed due to the scarcity of economic resources.
The structure of the small fort was made of bricks and stones, and it has three different parts. The six meters high base is rectangular with a flat, oval-corner ledge. When it was built, this building had three entrance doors on its sides, but the one in the southern side is bricked up now. Over the door there are two rows of small windows, four in the upper and three in the lower one, all of them symmetrically placed. The function of these small windows was to serve as a hole through which temporarily put out cannons or weapons to fire with absolute certainty. But, surprisingly, these small windows are built backwards, with the widest part on the outside. It is not clear if this singularity is related to an unknown function or it was just a mistake. Apart from the base, the other two differentiated parts of the small fort are a 5-meter high cylinder that also has small windows and the smallest one which is 2 meters high and is separated by a double octogonal ledge.
Oxígeno is a unique space, designed to live memorable experiences on every visit. A place where you can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment. In addition, you can play sports outdoors and use the ample green areas. They are a sustainable construction and operation project, as well as pet-friendly.
38 recommandé par les habitants
Centre commercial Oxygen
111Oxígeno is a unique space, designed to live memorable experiences on every visit. A place where you can enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment. In addition, you can play sports outdoors and use the ample green areas. They are a sustainable construction and operation project, as well as pet-friendly.
The Parque Morazán (Morazán Park) is located in the El Carmen district, on the convergence among 5th Street and 9th Street, 3rd Avenue, and 5th Avenue. This park is one of the most important ones of San José. It is surrounded by some other must-see places, like the emblematic Metal Building, the America House, the Maroy Building or the Spanish Park. Parque Morazán was built in 1887 and, at first, it was called La Laguna Plaza, though it was later renamed as Francisco Morazán Park, name of the Honduran general who was president of the country for a while, and afterwards, he was shot in the Principal Plaza, what is now the Central Park.
The main attraction of the park is the Temple of Music. This monument is the work of the Costa Rican world-famous architect and artist José Francisco Salazar, built in 1920 with a neoclassical design is an exact replica of the Temple of Love and Music of Versailles. You can contemplate the bust of the selfsame Morazán, as well as the statue honouring Simón Bolívar, America’s Liberator.
There are also other busts and monuments in honour of other representative figures of Costa Rica and South America: the bust of the ex-president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, the statues of Julio Acosta and Daniel Quirós (the latter, a work of the national artist Olger Villegas), the bust of Mauro Fernández Acuña, Homeland Liberator, and the bust of Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile’s Liberator.
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Morazán Park
Calle 7The Parque Morazán (Morazán Park) is located in the El Carmen district, on the convergence among 5th Street and 9th Street, 3rd Avenue, and 5th Avenue. This park is one of the most important ones of San José. It is surrounded by some other must-see places, like the emblematic Metal Building, the America House, the Maroy Building or the Spanish Park. Parque Morazán was built in 1887 and, at first, it was called La Laguna Plaza, though it was later renamed as Francisco Morazán Park, name of the Honduran general who was president of the country for a while, and afterwards, he was shot in the Principal Plaza, what is now the Central Park.
The main attraction of the park is the Temple of Music. This monument is the work of the Costa Rican world-famous architect and artist José Francisco Salazar, built in 1920 with a neoclassical design is an exact replica of the Temple of Love and Music of Versailles. You can contemplate the bust of the selfsame Morazán, as well as the statue honouring Simón Bolívar, America’s Liberator.
There are also other busts and monuments in honour of other representative figures of Costa Rica and South America: the bust of the ex-president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, the statues of Julio Acosta and Daniel Quirós (the latter, a work of the national artist Olger Villegas), the bust of Mauro Fernández Acuña, Homeland Liberator, and the bust of Bernardo O'Higgins, Chile’s Liberator.
Parque España is an urban park located in the city of San José, the capital of Costa Rica. It is a public space located between 7th and 9th avenues and 9th street, and is surrounded by several sites of historical and cultural interest of this Central American city, such as the National Cultural Center (CENAC), the National Insurance Institute, Casa Amarilla, Edificio Metálico, Paseo de las Damas and Parque Morazán. The Parque España is a small park with brick paved streets, where you can find several tropical trees, which gives it a certain jungle air and reminds the state of Costa Rica before its colonization by Spain. It has several monuments, the most notable and well known being the statue of the Spanish conquistador Juan Vázquez de Coronado, located next to a fountain at the main entrance of the park.
26 recommandé par les habitants
Parque Espana
Avenida 5AParque España is an urban park located in the city of San José, the capital of Costa Rica. It is a public space located between 7th and 9th avenues and 9th street, and is surrounded by several sites of historical and cultural interest of this Central American city, such as the National Cultural Center (CENAC), the National Insurance Institute, Casa Amarilla, Edificio Metálico, Paseo de las Damas and Parque Morazán. The Parque España is a small park with brick paved streets, where you can find several tropical trees, which gives it a certain jungle air and reminds the state of Costa Rica before its colonization by Spain. It has several monuments, the most notable and well known being the statue of the Spanish conquistador Juan Vázquez de Coronado, located next to a fountain at the main entrance of the park.
The National University of Costa Rica was founded in 1973 in the province of Heredia. Uladislao Gámez Solano, the Minister of Public Education under the government of José Figueres Ferrer, approved the creation of the University on February 15, 1973, through Law #5182. Benjamín Núñez Vargas (a Roman Catholic priest, academic and politician) was the founder and first Rector of the University.
The University opened its doors on March 14, 1973, following the legacy of the Normal School of Costa Rica and the Superior Normal School.
During its development phase, it brought together some of the greatest minds in Latin America at that time. This phase is defined as the "Universidad Necesaria" and laid the foundation for an institution that serves the underprivileged in Costa Rica and provides access to quality education for all.
Today, the university has a wide range of academic offerings and a rigorous curriculum. UNA offers more than 65 graduate and post-graduate programs in various fields such as natural sciences, earth and marine sciences, education, social sciences, health sciences, philosophy, literature and arts.
Benjamín Núñez Presbítero Campus
The National University of Costa Rica was founded in 1973 in the province of Heredia. Uladislao Gámez Solano, the Minister of Public Education under the government of José Figueres Ferrer, approved the creation of the University on February 15, 1973, through Law #5182. Benjamín Núñez Vargas (a Roman Catholic priest, academic and politician) was the founder and first Rector of the University.
The University opened its doors on March 14, 1973, following the legacy of the Normal School of Costa Rica and the Superior Normal School.
During its development phase, it brought together some of the greatest minds in Latin America at that time. This phase is defined as the "Universidad Necesaria" and laid the foundation for an institution that serves the underprivileged in Costa Rica and provides access to quality education for all.
Today, the university has a wide range of academic offerings and a rigorous curriculum. UNA offers more than 65 graduate and post-graduate programs in various fields such as natural sciences, earth and marine sciences, education, social sciences, health sciences, philosophy, literature and arts.
The first institution of higher education in Costa Rica was the University of Santo Tomás (Universidad de Santo Tomás), founded in 1843. This institution had close ties to the Roman Catholic Church and was closed in 1888 by the progressive and anti-clerical government of President Bernardo Soto Alfaro as part of a campaign to modernize public education. The schools of law, agronomy, fine arts, and pharmacy continued to operate independently. In 1940, these four schools were reunited to form the modern UCR during the reformist administration of President Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia.
The UCR remained the only university in the country until the government opened the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (Tecnológico de Costa Rica) and the National University of Costa Rica (Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica) in 1972 and 1973, respectively. Years later, in 1979, another public university was opened: the State Distance University (Universidad Estatal a Distancia), modeled after the British Open University, and finally the National Technical University, opened in 2008 after the merger of several vocational schools. Today, Costa Rica has these five public universities and about fifty-three small private ones, but the UCR remains the largest and best-funded institution.
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University Of Costa Rica
The first institution of higher education in Costa Rica was the University of Santo Tomás (Universidad de Santo Tomás), founded in 1843. This institution had close ties to the Roman Catholic Church and was closed in 1888 by the progressive and anti-clerical government of President Bernardo Soto Alfaro as part of a campaign to modernize public education. The schools of law, agronomy, fine arts, and pharmacy continued to operate independently. In 1940, these four schools were reunited to form the modern UCR during the reformist administration of President Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia.
The UCR remained the only university in the country until the government opened the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (Tecnológico de Costa Rica) and the National University of Costa Rica (Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica) in 1972 and 1973, respectively. Years later, in 1979, another public university was opened: the State Distance University (Universidad Estatal a Distancia), modeled after the British Open University, and finally the National Technical University, opened in 2008 after the merger of several vocational schools. Today, Costa Rica has these five public universities and about fifty-three small private ones, but the UCR remains the largest and best-funded institution.