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THE CENTRAL VALLEY of COSTA RICA
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The main entryway to the country, the Central Valley offers a variety of
tourist, cultural and natural attractions, including Costa Rica’s best
museums: the Gold, Jade, National, Costa Rican Art, La Salle Natural
Science, University of Costa Rica Insect and Children’s Contemporary Art and
Design Museums. In addition, this region is home to the architectural jewel
of Costa Rica: the National Theater. All of these are located in the
country’s capital. The national parks located in the Valley—Poás, Braulio
Carrillo, Irazú and Turrialba—protect the region’s main volcanoes. All have
road infrastructure so that visitors can enjoy their birds, natural
landscapes, craters and forests. The country’s capital, San José, is the seat of most government services; however, the provincial capitals—Alajuela, Heredia and Cartago—offer a variety of quality commercial and tourism services. As a tourism zone, the Central Valley features two extraordinarily beautiful areas that in and of themselves are true tourist destinations: Turrialba and Valle de los Santos. The rural towns, for their part, are highly picturesque, and offer a glimpse of old Costa Rica, with their houses of bahareque (a building material similar to adobe but made of cattle dung and straw), large coffee plantations, sugar mills and dairies.
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| ACTIVITIES |
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Tourist activities abound in this region, and may take in culture, adventure or nature.
HORSEBACK RIDING Outside the big cities, in the Central Valley’s rural zone, getting about
on horseback is commonplace. Tourists can enjoy this activity in communities
such as Turrialba, Santa María de Dota, Atenas, Zarcero, San Ramón, Palmares,
upper Cartago, Heredia and Alajuela, as well as in the south and west parts
of San José: Escazú, Santa Ana and Ciudad Colón, among other places. HIKING There is no limit to the variety of hikes available for observing the
region’s natural, historical, architectural, cultural, religious and
commercial attractions. RECREATIONAL CYCLING The region offers a variety of picturesque roads and adventure or leisure
sites that allow touring on regular or mountain bikes. Interesting routes
include San Antonio de Escazú to the University for Peace, Turrialba to La
Suiza, and Cañón del Guarco to Copey de Dota. SHOPPING In recent years, a variety of new shopping centers have been developed in
Curridabat, Zapote, downtown Alajuela, Escazú and Heredia, offering
interesting shopping options for international tourists. ART GALLERIES Art galleries have experienced a significant increase in recent years,
not only in tourist and hotel districts but also in major commercial
centers. Examples of Costa Rican art may be seen in cultural houses and in
all the provincial capitals. In association with the Ministry of Culture, a
few municipalities have created Culture Offices to discover local artists,
which has encouraged an increase in artistic endeavors. ARCHITECTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES The Central Valley contains a wide variety of sites and buildings
declared National Monuments or of architectural or historical interest to
appeal to tourists appreciative of the country’s national heritage. SPELUNKING The cavern system in the outskirts of Patarrá offers adventure and the
chance to learn about the fossils found in the mountain. CUISINE Many modern shopping centers and typical towns have restaurants and sodas
(small, usually family-run restaurants serving local food) where visitors
can sample Costa Rican cuisine. Communities with traditions in traditional
food and drink include Zarcero, Ciudad Quesada, Santa María de Dota, Aserrí,
La Garita, Poasito de Alajuela, Monte de la Cruz, Heredia, Pacayas de
Alvarado, Santa Cruz de Turrialba, Atenas, Orosí and Grecia, as well as El
Empalme, La Trinidad and Copey. PLANT AND WILDLIFE OBSERVATION Visitors can observe nature and wildlife in several public protected
areas, such as Braulio Carrillo, Volcán Poás and Tapantí-Macizo de la Muerte,
as well as in the Lankester Botanical Garden, the Simón Bolívar Zoo, the
Santa Ana National Zoo and the zoo in La Garita de Alajuela. Added to these,
a few theme parks offer enjoyable experiences with nature. SUGAR MILLS Sugar mills are used for one of the most traditional processes in the
country: manufacturing products from sugar cane. Mostly located in rural
areas, sugar mills are places where entire families get their livelihood,
and where grandfathers, parents and children alike participate in the work.
Old sugar mills in good working condition are found in Piedades Norte, Bajos
de la Paz and San Ramón de Alajuela; some of these are powered by oxen.
Water-powered mills can be found in San Antonio de Escazú, Jaris de Mora and
Grecia. Several sugar mills have been converted into tourist attractions for
travelers wanting to try sugary treats such as perico, sobado and espumas,
breathe in the sweet aroma or learn about the production process. MUSEUMS The most culturally and historically diverse selection of museums in the
country are located in this region, including the National Museum, Museum of
Contemporary Art and Design, Children’s Museum, Museum of Costa Rican Art,
Gold Museum, Popular Culture Museum, Juan Santamaría Museum, Orosí Museum,
Entomological Museum, La Salle Museum, Jade Museum and others.
BIRD-WATCHING The Central Valley offers several bird-watching sites, including Copey de
Dota and Macizo de la Muerte on the southern Interamerican highway, El Rodeo
Protected Area, the environs of the University for Peace, the Tapantí area,
Paraíso and the upper regions of Coronado. Birds in captivity may be seen in
the Simón Bolívar Zoo and the Bird Zoo in La Garita, Alajuela.
TREETOP AND TRAIL ADVENTURES Several companies and organizations have developed facilities for
visitors to enjoy adventure activities on nature trails and in the forest
canopy: INBIO in Santo Domingo de Heredia; the Central American Livestock
Farming School in Balsa de Atenas; the TURU BA-RI Tropical Park in
Turrubares, which has facilities with an ecotourism focus, gardens with
exotic species, a herbarium, a garden maze and butterfly garden; and the
Butterfly Garden in the outskirts of Varablanca, with trails between several
waterfalls on the Río La Paz, a hummingbird garden and butterfly garden.
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| PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography is a promising activity thanks to the varied cultural,
architectural and scenic options available, as well as the wealth of flora
and fauna, waterfalls, rivers, volcanoes, coffee and sugarcane plantations
and dairies. LANGUAGE TRAINING As a complement to the tourist activities available in the Central Valley, language training is offered in some state universities, as well as through a few private institutions and travel agencies. Courses may be taken not only in the capital but also in towns such as San Isidro de Coronado, Ciudad Colón and Paraíso. BUTTERFLY AND SNAKE GARDENS Visitors to these places can observe a variety of butterfly species or
learn about the natural history of snakes. There are gardens in San José,
Heredia and Turrialba. TRAIN RIDE TO THE PACIFIC Tourists can take the train from San José to the Pacific on the “Paseo en
Tren a la Tica” departing for Caldera every Saturday and Sunday at six a.m.
This unique activity started up a few years ago after a group of friends had
the idea to somehow revive those unforgettable train trips that started in
1910, when the María Cecilia locomotive first began direct train service
between San José and Puntarenas. With a total capacity of 130 passengers,
the train departs at six on the nose. The route has not changed; behind the
tracks are the Numar factory, La Sabana, Pavas and Belén. Loitering in the
aisles is not permitted, as vendors pass through selling coffee and
refreshments, followed by newspapers, oranges, mangos and sweets. At Río
Grande, a serenade begins and is repeated from car to car. The Cambalache
tunnel indicates the train’s approach to Mata de Limón, and at ten a.m. it
arrives at its last stop: Puerto Caldera. CULTURAL ACTIVITIES In the provincial capitals, especially on Sundays at around ten a.m., concerts by the National Bands of Cartago, Heredia, Alajuela and San José may be enjoyed. This traditional activity normally takes place in the Central Park of each province. In addition, throughout the year communities celebrate historical, religious, sporting, civic and artistic events, and hold fairs to raise funds for community development.
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| RURAL TOURISM ACTIVITIES AND SERVICES
Rural tourism activities and services offered in the Central Valley and their corresponding locations within the region are as follows: A wide variety of attractions and activities are offered around La
Cangreja Lodge in Puriscal, one kilometer south of Mastatal. San José Rural Lodge, located three kilometers east of the Escuela de
Palmichal de Acosta, offers several activities and attractions. Located 15 kilometers northwest of San Ramón in Bajo La Paz, Bajo La Paz
Student Hostel allows guests to enjoy nature and communal life. La Flor de Paraíso Tropical Agro-ecology Farm and Language School is
located in the community of La Flor, in Paraíso de Cartago. Copal Lodge is located six kilometers from Humo de Pejibaye, Jiménez; the
last stretch of road requires an all-terrain vehicle.
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| TURRIALBA
Several cities developed and prospered as a result of the building of the
railroad to the Caribbean; Turrialba is one of these, and its architectural,
spatial and ethnic makeup is different from other towns. Declared a City of
National Archeological Interest, this town is the entryway to the Costa
Rican Caribbean. Two universities are located here: the Tropical Agronomy
Research and Learning Center (CATIE), of international influence, and the
University of Costa Rica. Turrialba’s outskirts contain appealing rural
communities such as Santa Cruz, where homemade Turrialba cheese is produced,
La Suiza and Aquiares, as well as the rapids of the Reventazón and Pacuare
rivers. RÍO PACUARE Flowing out of the Cordillera de Talamanca, this river offers excellent
rafting. The run is suitable for big and small whitewater rafters, and parts
of the trip offer stunning scenery. VALLE DE OROSI This highly scenic tourism circuit features a series of viewpoints showing two different areas of the valley, including the towns of Orosí and Ujarrás, the first two Spanish settlements in the era of the Conquista. Here, visitors can see two of the only colonial buildings in the country: the renamed Ujarrás Ruins and the beautiful Iglesia de Orosí, with its considerable treasures in altarpieces, sacred images and other historical elements. Because of its strategic location, the Reventazón Valley, as it is also
called, is a mandatory stop with many travel agencies, which find here a
high-quality tourism destination where tourists can enjoy fishing for trout
and langoustines, rent boats, soak in hot springs and take in agricultural
plantations and works of engineering. In addition, many lodging facilities
have been established in this area over the last few years. RÍO REVENTAZÓN At 152 kilometers long, the Reventazón features stretches perfect for
rafting, fishing or canoeing. The thick greenery on the river’s banks adds
to the enjoyment of a trip down its waters. The mid zone of this river is
the Cachí Hydroelectric Plant’s largest water supply source. CACHÍ HYDROELECTRIC DAM AND RESERVOIR This dam began operating in 1966, generating 32,000 kilowatts of power,
which doubled one year later. Its innovative use of the Reventazón’s waters
makes it the first of its kind in Central America. The reinforced-concrete
structure, 79 meters tall and 186 meters wide, draws the attention of both
national and international tourists traveling through the Ujarrás Valley.
Several leisure and eating establishments have arisen around the reservoir
to facilitate visits from local and foreign tourists. OROSÍ HOT SPRINGS According to the Romanian specialists who assessed Costa Rica’s hot
springs in 1981, these waters are effective for relieving muscular pain and
reducing stress. Orosí has two pools with good facilities for the national
tourists who come to bathe in the waters. Around the Mirador de Orosí, a
large outfit has been established that offers a number of quality services
and taps into other hot springs highly beneficial to the body. OROSÍ CHURCH AND COLONIAL MUSEUM Built in 1743 by Franciscan missionaries, this is the only colonial
building in good condition in Costa Rica. Many works of art can be admired
inside, including paintings, sacred images and the altar. The adjacent
museum houses pieces and artifacts used by the Franciscans during the
evangelical period, displaying something of the lifestyle of that era. The
site was declared a National Monument in 1985. LOS NOVIOS WATERFALL Known for the many anecdotes about the origin of its name (“The Couple”),
this waterfall adorns the slopes of Picacho hill, and can be viewed from the
highway to Ujarrás Valley or the Costa Rica Tourism Board Ujarrás viewpoint.
RUINS OF THE IGLESIA DE LA PURÍSIMA CONCEPCIÓN IN UJARRÁS This church’s construction was ordered during the second half of the 16th
century by the Governor of Costa Rica at that time, Miguel Gómez de Lara.
The Franciscan missionaries carried out their labors in Ujarrás around the
church. Declared a National Monument in 1920, today the church is a visitor
attraction of great architectural and historical interest within the
Reventazón Valley circuit. CARTAGO “The Very Noble and Very Loyal City of Cartago” was Costa Rica’s first
capital, a distinction the city held until 1823. Cartago enjoys a good level
of commercial development and state services. Despite seismic activity that
has caused considerable damage throughout the city’s history, several
important architectural structures still remain. Cartago is home to Costa
Rica’s patron saint, Our Lady of the Angels.
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| OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS BASILICA
Built in 1921, this church houses a small shrine where the faithful go to
worship Costa Rica’s patron saint in hopes of a miracle, to be healed or to
give thanks for prayers answered. A mixture of Roman, Arabic and Gothic
styles, the basilica has Italian floors and 32 stained-glass windows from
Germany depicting the Virgin, Heart of Jesus and the 15 Stations of the
Cross. PILGRIMAGE IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS Each year, starting several days before August 2, Costa Ricans from all
over the country make pilgrimages from their homes to Our Lady of the Angels
Basilica in Cartago, to fulfill a promise or ask for help with health or
financial problems. COLEGIO SAN LUIS GONZAGA Founded as a learning institution in 1842, San Luis Gonzaga has produced
several noteworthy Costa Rican political and professional figures. Several
earthquakes destroyed the original facilities, with the earthquake of 1910
finally spurring the move to the school’s present-day location. Dating back
to 1920, this building demonstrates a neoclassical influence, and was
declared of Historical and Architectural Interest in 1989. The facilities
house a museum featuring archeological, colonial-furniture, scientific and
ethnological collections. IGLESIA DE QUIRCOT Located in the community of Quircot, this church is around 100 years old.
A typical adobe construction, it was declared a Relic of Historical-Cultural
Interest in 1986. CASA DE LA CIUDAD DE CARTAGO (PIRIE BUILDING) The first floor was built in 1882, with the second added in 1900. This is
one of the few buildings to survive Cartago’s earthquakes. Today it is used
for a number of Cartago’s artistic and cultural activities. PARROQUIA DE SANTIAGO APÓSTOL (CARTAGO RUINS) Construction resumed in 1904 after thirty years of stoppage; however, the
Santa Mónica earthquake on May 4, 1910, put a definitive end to Cartago’s
interest in completing the building. The site is visited by various travel
companies bringing a constant stream of international tourists wanting to
learn about the ruins’ history and see the architecture, bells and colonial
streets. CRISTO DE OCHOMOGO Located in Cerros de Ochomogo, this monument commemorates the Costa
Ricans who died from March to April of 1823, when the “imperialists” who
supported union with Mexico’s Iturbide Empire did battle with the
republicans who believed in complete independence from other countries. As a
result of this confrontation among Costa Ricans, Cartago lost its title as
the country’s capital to San José. CORDILLERA DE TALAMANCA Made up of tertiary sedimentary marine rock, plutonic rock and volcanic
domes from the upper Miocene, this mountain range runs on a
northwest-to-southeast axis. Oak forests cover some areas, with other
noteworthy species including magnolia, cacho de venado and pagoda. Plains
bare of trees also exist, inhabited by squat shrubs, lichen, grasses,
bamboo, ferns and myrtles. Common wildlife includes tapirs, ocelots,
jaguarondis and wildcats, as well as mountain hares, goats, kinkajous,
raccoons, coatis and agoutis. The range’s highest peaks are Chirripó at
3,821 meters above sea level and Kamuk at 3,554 meters above sea level. RÍO SAVEGRE, SAN GERARDO DE DOTA In this river’s cold waters, just a few kilometers from its source,
visitors can fish for rainbow trout, or simply take refuge on its banks to
relax or capture the river’s beauty on film or video. The Savegre features
lovely scenic areas, as well as bird-watching—especially quetzals. CERRO BUENA VISTA or DE LA MUERTE Part of the Cordillera de Talamanca, this mountain has an altitude of
3,451 meters. If the weather is kind, both Pacific and Caribbean coasts can
be seen from its heights. The mountain features an interesting dwarf forest,
and temperatures here can drop to zero degrees Celsius. The upper part of
the mountain features a possible sub-volcanic dome, Cerro Jaboncillo (3,000
meters), the result of lava emplacement during the Miocene. LOS JULIANES WATERFALL Main entry is through the Santa María de Dota area. The access road to Los Julianes runs through a region of virgin mountains called Fila Bayoneta. The waterfall is around 90 meters tall.
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| SAN GERARDO WATERFALL
To get to this 40-meter waterfall, visitors walk approximately two and a
half hours through primary forest, observing spectacular plant and wildlife
species. VALLE DE SANTA MARÍA DE DOTA Seat of the Dota canton, Santa María is set in a valley surrounded by mountains. Converging here are the access roads to other communities such as Copey, San Marcos de Tarrazú and San Pablo de León Cortés. The population is concentrated on the banks of the Río Parrita, in blocks like those used in old Spanish towns. Historical and natural attractions include: Santa María National Park, with its Monument to the Fallen in the Revolution of 1948; the Escuela República de Bolivia, which was the General Barracks for troops during the revolution; and the Dota hills offering lovely panoramic views of the valley. Existen diversos atractivos históricos y naturales: el Parque de Santa María, declarado de interés con su Monumento a los Caídos en la Revolución de 1948, la Escuela República de Bolivia fue Cuartel General de las tropas en la Revolución y los cerros de Dota de los cuáles se observa una hermosa panorámica del Valle. FEAST OF SANTA MARÍA DE LA CUEVA This traditional religious feast involves activities very uncommon in the rest of the country, such as fireworks, typical foods for sale, running with the bulls a la tica and various competitions: carreras de cintas, el palo encebado, juego de la bruja and others. Events go on for a week, ending with the chinga, in which everyone involved in the activities participates. The celebration takes place on February 2 of each year. VALLE DE COPEY At 1,853 meters in altitude, this small valley is home to the community of Copey, and features unique conditions for hiking, photography, horseback riding, fishing, bird-watching and other leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy flower farms and apple orchards, typical architecture, natural landscapes and more. Lodging and dining options are offered. CAÑÓN–SANTA MARÍA DE DOTA PICTURESQUE ROAD The first access route to Santa María de Dota, this historic road features forests, rivers, agricultural landscapes and interesting communities such as La Cima and Copey, up to its final destination of Santa María. OJO DE AGUA REFUGE, DOTA Ojo de Agua was built in 1910 as a rest stop for travelers making the trip between San Isidro de El General and San José. It has been declared a Historical Relic, and may be visited at its location at kilometer 76 on the southern Interamerican highway. Today, the place is used as a rest stop where groups of riders break their journeys throughout the year. MONUMENT TO THE HEROES FALLEN IN 1948 Located in Santa María de Dota’s Central Park, this piece by artist Luis Umaña Ruiz depicts a woman protecting a group of men and women within her arms, symbolizing Costa Rica safeguarding its citizens. The piece weighs around 90 tons. SAN JOSÉ At 1,149 meters above sea level, San José enjoys an average temperature
of 24 degrees Celsius—an ideal climate for short trips to the Carmen,
Catedral, Merced and Hospital districts. Here, visitors can admire the
lovely architecture of several buildings that have been declared National
Monuments of cultural, historical or architectural interest, including the
Post and Telegraph Building, the National Theater, the Children’s Museum,
the Blue Castle and others. The city offers high-quality options in dining
and accommodations, from bed and breakfasts and popular sodas (small
restaurants serving local and fast food) to fashionable bars for nightlife,
complemented with cinemas and theaters. San José’s December religious feasts
and public festivals are traditional events that may be enjoyed by visitors.
NATIONAL THEATER Built between 1890 and 1897, this edifice’s construction costs were paid
for by the Costa Rican people through import taxes. The National Theater is
home to valuable pieces by Italian artists, and is still in good condition
after 100 years. The pride of Costa Ricans, the Theater is the center of the
country’s main cultural, artistic and political activities, and was declared
a National Monument in 1965. MÉLICO SALAZAR THEATER The Mélico Salazar Theater is housed in a building that has been declared
of Historical and Architectural Interest. Its purpose is to promote the
artistic expression of popular culture, and to provide access to its shows
to the broadest possible sector of the population. METAL BUILDING This hundred-year-old architectural jewel of metal has been used from its
beginnings as a house of learning for boys and girls. It was declared of
Historical and Architectural Interest in 1980. TEMPLE OF MUSIC Located in Parque Morazán, this 1920 neoclassical building made of reinforced concrete features almost perfect acoustics. For many years it was the meeting place for the San José community, where concerts by the Symphonic Orchestra and the Military Band were enjoyed and the traditional new year greeting was exchanged.
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| NATIONAL MONUMENT
Inaugurated on September 15, 1895, at what was known as the Plaza de la Estación, the National Monument is a piece by French sculptor Louis Carrier commemorating the heroic deed of the campaign of 1856-1857. The figures represent the Central American countries pursuing a North American invader attired like the slavers represented by William Walker. NATIONAL MUSEUM (OLD BELLAVISTA BARRACKS) Construction of the Army General Barracks took place between 1916 and
1930. In 1949, after the abolition of the army, the building was converted
into the National Museum. Its fundamental purpose is to promote the study,
conservation and display of the country’s flora and fauna. Currently, the
museum’s main themes are archeology, national history and natural history.
Located on Calle 17 between Avenidas Central and Segunda, the museum is open
to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Dating back to 1910, this modern museum is designed especially for the
children of Costa Rica. The cultural and scientific activities that take
place in its more than 50 display rooms are of great impact to the country.
Located 800 meters north of the Banco Central in San José, the museum is
open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. JADE MUSEUM This museum houses a collection of pre-Columbian art (gold, ceramic, jade
and stone), and is the only museum displaying indigenous jade artwork in the
Americas. It is located in the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (National
Insurance Institute) building. GOLD MUSEUM The collection of indigenous gold objects displayed at the Gold Museum is
considered one of the most valuable in the world. The museum is located in
the Plaza de la Cultura, adjacent to the Tourism Information office of the
Costa Rica Tourism Board. Located on Calle 5 at Avenida Central, the Gold
Museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. OUTDOOR ART FESTIVAL, SAN PEDRO, MONTES DE OCA This nonprofit event’s only goal is to take art to the streets. The event takes place in San Pedro de Montes de Oca, on Calle 9 in San Pedro opposite the Banco Popular, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Outdoor Art Festival is organized with growing success by the Galería de Ulises. According to Ulises Castillo, the event’s driving force, for two days the streets and sidewalks become a display area for the work of 80 plastic artists, including Ángel Lara González, Rafael García, Domingo Ramos, Emilia Cersósimo, Joaquín Rodríguez del Paso, Olger Villegas and Fernando Carballo. Event production is undertaken by the participants. MUSEUM OF COSTA RICAN ART The old La Sabana Airport building is the home of this museum, which normally displays diverse collections of plastic art. On the second floor of the building, the Salón Dorado features a wooden mural depicting the country’s history from the Amerindian era to the year 1940. Located on Calle 42 at Avenida Segunda, La Sabana, the museum is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Founded in 1977, the museum, houses a permanent collection of some of the most important works in the history of the fine arts in Costa Rica (contains a collection of local paintings and sculpture from the 19th and 20th centuries). There are also changing shows of local artist. La Sabana Park, San Jose Opening hours: Tue-Sun
10:00-16:00 PHILATELIC AND NUMISMATIC MUSEUM OF COSTA RICA Located in the San José Central Post Office building, this museum displays a collection of postage stamps produced in Costa Rica, as well as a recreation of an office from the last century, complete with equipment used for the first communications in the country. UNIVERSITY OF COSTA RICA INSECT MUSEUM This museum displays an example of Costa Rica’s entomological diversity,
and is located in the basement of the Faculty of Musical Arts at the
University of Costa Rica. LA SALLE NATURAL SCIENCE MUSEUM With an outstanding ornithology, entomology and malacology collection,
this museum displays around 18,000 attractive specimens. Four display rooms
exhibit mammals, fish, reptiles and shells; there is also an archeological
display room. Located on the southwest side of La Sabana Metropolitan Park,
the museum is open to the public Monday to Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30
p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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| MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART AND DESIGN
The administration that designed this project defined it as the first space set aside specifically for circulation, research and reflection on national and international contemporary art in its diverse manifestations. Since 1994, the museum has put on more than 50 exhibitions generated by national and international curators, and has organized important traveling displays, including the first exhibition of contemporary Central American art. Located in San José in the Centro Nacional de Cultura (CENAC)—a complex of restored buildings—the museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. POPULAR CULTURE MUSEUM This museum is located in Santa Lucía de Barva, Heredia, in the house of former president Alfredo González Flores. Its fundamental objective is to disseminate and preserve the traditions and identity of the Costa Rican people. The museum also shows visitors the building methods of colonial houses made with adobe and bahareque. A National Heritage, the Popular Culture Museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. INBIO (BIODIVERSITY INSTITUTE) Dedicated to natural research in the country, INBIO’s achievements have won the institute several international awards. Located in Santo Domingo de Heredia, the campus features tourist facilities and a Biodiversity Park. NATIONAL CULTURE CENTER – CENAC (OLD NATIONAL LIQUOR FACTORY) One of the oldest buildings in the country, dating back to 1853, CENAC is made up of several facilities, including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, the Fanal Theater, Theater 1887 dedicated to dance, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design, the Stone Gateway and the Sundial. IGLESIA DE SAN ISIDRO DE CORONADO This structure of German origin was unloaded in late 1930 at the Pacific
train station; from there it was transported in oxcarts and deposited in the
plaza of San Isidro, Vázquez de Coronado canton, in front of which the
neo-Gothic church was erected. The arrangement of the building’s principal
façade shows that it has three naves. A series of images adorn the main
entryways and the lateral facades. The building was finished in 1934;
however, the date of completion is considered to be 1937, when the bells
were blessed in a solemn consecration ceremony. JOAQUÍN GARCÍA MONGE MUSEUM This museum displays a house from the 19th century made of adobe and caña
brava (a giant grass) secured with bejuco and cucharilla (types of liana),
colonial-style windows and wood fastened with hand-forged nails. The museum
features a series of rooms distributed by geographic and historical context
of García Monge’s time. OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION, SAN RAFAEL, ESCAZÚ The Outdoor Art Exhibition takes place in San Rafael de Escazú once a
year, showing a variety of paintings and sculptures by almost 200 artists,
in addition to the participation of several art galleries that strengthen
the exhibition. Jewelers, photographers and restorers are also present,
using the opportunity to sell their work. The event allows new artists to
interact with nationally recognized artists. SANTA ANA Situated between the Escazú and Mora cantons at the foot of the Escazú
and Puriscal hills, Santa Ana sits at an altitude of 904 meters above sea
level, and enjoys a warm, dry climate. Its proximity to the capital, as well
as Escazú, Belén and Alajuela, has enabled the development of a variety of
dining and lodging options, including bed and breakfasts. The community
combines agriculture, especially onions, with clay handicrafts, making Santa
Ana a must-visit destination that can be enjoyed along with typical towns
such as Piedades and Río Oro. UNIVERSITY FOR PEACE The administration of President Rodrigo Carazo (1978-1982) got the ONU to
establish the University for Peace in Costa Rica in 1980. Today the campus
has ample facilities, and studies there are directly related to aspects of
peace and democracy. Also found here is the Monument to Peace, which
highlights the work of different Costa Rican leaders in the interest of
peace. The area around the monument is a lovely place for picnics and walks
along nature trails featuring educational signs. The university is located
seven kilometers from Ciudad Colón in the community of Rodeo. PURISCAL West of San José, Puriscal features irregular topography. Santiago, the seat of the canton, has an altitude of 1,105 meters above sea level. Puriscal is a great place to visit, thanks to its various attractions. The Quitirrisí Indigenous Reservation, just before Santiago, offers handicrafts made by members of this ethnic group. There are also typical villages, traditional food and drink, tobacco plantations, natural landscapes and various handicrafts made of wood and other materials. A new attraction is La Cangreja National Park, which features a variety of natural attractions, some of which are unique in the world.
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PROTECTED AREAS |
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| VOLCÁN TURRIALBA NATIONAL PARK
This 1,257-hectare park’s most important feature is Volcán Turrialba. With an altitude of 3,340 meters above sea level, Turrialba shares a foundation with Volcán Irazú, which is why they are often identified as twin volcanoes. Turrialba features three well-defined craters as well as others misshapen by volcanic activity. The central crater is the deepest, at approximately 50 meters. On its
slopes are two possible cones, Tiendilla (2,791 meters above sea level) and
Armado (2,750 meters). Current activity consists of gas and steam eruptions
with sulfur deposits. The average temperature here is 16 degrees Celsius,
and rainfall varies between 3,000 to 4,000 millimeters per year. Visitor
services include trails and several natural viewpoints. GUAYABO NATIONAL ARCHEOLOGICAL MONUMENT The Guayabo National Monument archeological site represents one of the highest degrees of socio-cultural development achieved by the country’s pre-Hispanic societies. Declared a National Monument in August 1973 for being the largest and most important archeological site discovered up to that time, Guayabo was occupied through four cultural phases from 1000 B.C. to 1550 A.D. Based on the type of constructions—aqueducts, roads, retaining walls or bridges—and the area, it is estimated that between 1,200 and 1,600 people inhabited the site. The architectural complexity and extraordinary artistic design of the
features and artifacts found among the ruins suggest that the site was home
to individuals of high social, political, economic and religious standing.
The site is located 19 kilometers northwest of Turrialba; however, it may
also be accessed via Santa Cruz de Turrialba by all-terrain vehicle. Visitor
services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms,
drinking water, signage and several natural viewpoints. VOLCÁN IRAZÚ NATIONAL PARK This park protects colossal Irazú, which, at 3,432 meters above sea
level, is the tallest volcano in Costa Rica. The active volcano has a long
history of eruptions and eruptive cycles. The protected area’s many
geological features include the Playa Hermosa, Principal and Diego de la
Haya craters, as well as the Sapper formation, the highest point in the
massif, from which both Caribbean and Pacific coasts may be seen. Visitor
services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms,
signage, a cafeteria, parking and several natural viewpoints. BRAULIO CARRILLO NATIONAL PARK Created by Law 8357-A of April 5, 1978, this park is located northeast of
the Central Valley in the central Cordillera Volcánica, between the massifs
of Poás and Irazú volcanoes. Covering more than 44,000 hectares, Braulio
Carrillo is one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica. Nearly the
entire landscape is made up of tall volcanic mountains swathed in forest,
with countless great rivers running through deep canyons. Several extinct
volcanoes have been identified: Chompipe, at 2,259 meters tall; Turu, at
2,139 meters; Cerro Cacho Negro, at 2,250 meters; and Barva, which has
several craters collectively known as Tres Marías with an average height of
1,725 meters. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station,
trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and several natural viewpoints.
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| VOLCÁN POÁS NATIONAL PARK
Rising 2,708 meters above sea level, this volcano’s gas emissions have
notably increased since 1989, causing acid rain that has damaged plant life
in some areas of the park as well as neighboring agricultural plantations.
The summit features two craters: the main one, at one and a half kilometers
in diameter and 300 meters deep; and Laguna Botos, a cold, rain-fed lake
that feeds the Río Ángel, a tributary of the Río Sarapiquí that flows into
the Caribbean. Currently the volcano emits a great quantity of gases and
steam from the various fumaroles located in the crater’s inner cone. Visitor
services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms,
drinking water, signage, a cafeteria, souvenir shop and several natural
viewpoints. BOSQUE ALEGRE WILDLIFE REFUGE This group of volcanic lakes is made up of Bosque Alegre, Congo and Hule lakes, as well as a tropical wet forest. An organized community watches over protection policies and conservation of the refuge. Visitor services include trails, restrooms and natural viewpoints. Approx. 2,100 acres - 2,460' above sea level - ranges from 65ºF to 80ºF - 180 inches annual average - Alajuela Province, 30 miles NW of San Jose, N 10°18'0" W 84°13'0". The Bosque Alegre wildlife refuge of Costa Rica protects the primary and secondary tropical rainforests and wetlands surrounding three small crater lakes, Bosque Alegre, Hule, and Congo. An ecological committee currently produces medicinal plants for use in shampoos and herbal teas, which has the added benefit of cultivating and supporting the butterfly population and diversity in the area.
TAPANTÍ-MACIZO DE LA MUERTE NATIONAL PARK With a 58,323-hectare area and altitudes ranging from 1,220 to 2,560
meters above sea level, this park is located in one of the rainiest parts of
the country and is home to 45 species of mammals, 260 bird species and 30
reptile species, as well as ancient oak and alder forests. Fed by several
tributaries, the Río Grande de Orosí runs through the area; its waters are
used to produce hydroelectric energy and to provide part of the metropolitan
area’s water supply. Macizo de la Muerte is home to Historical Heritage site
“La Picada de Calderón,” a trail still used by horseback riders at various
times of the year. Visitor services in the Tapantí area include information,
a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and
natural viewpoints. LOS SANTOS FOREST PRESERVE Stretching west from the Interamerican highway between El Empalme and the
little village of División, this preserve’s 62,000 hectares are rich in
natural attractions and a large variety of flora and fauna. Among its
treasures is the quetzal, a spectacular bird with majestic plumage. CERRO VUELTAS BIOLOGICAL PRESERVE Located in Copey, Cerro Vueltas contains 1,500 hectares. The preserve’s
highest point is 3,156 meters above sea level; its lowest is in the vicinity
of the community of Provincia de Dota. The most characteristic type of
forest here is páramo (dwarf forest), with its great biodiversity and, in
some cases, endemic species. |
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