Cartago, Central Valley, Costa Rica

Cartago Costa Rica

A city steeped in rich history and culture, Cartago City was the first capital of Costa Rica. Founded in 1563 by Juan Vasquez de Coronado, this city has the distinction of being the first Spanish settlement in the country. Capital of Costa Rica until 1823, one of the main reasons why San Jose was made the capital was because Cartago was situated close to the foot of the Volcan Irazu, which had nearly destroyed the entire city in 1723.

A visit to the Cartago region provides a flashback in time, with ruins dating back to the 16th century found here, reminding visitors of a time when pre-Columbian inhabitants farmed what was once the Costa Rica's breadbasket region. Most of the early farmers here were killed by the Spanish settlers, nevertheless by visiting places like the Monumento Nacional Guayabo, one gets the opportunity to take in this area’s amazing past.

A lush region that was once covered by forestation, much of the land here was cleared away by early colonial farmers. Cartago’s rural villages today are a sight to behold and are marked by old houses and aged buildings.

Many people visit Cartago to see the Basilica de Nuestra Senora de Los Angeles church with the miraculous La Negrita or Black Madonna. This statue is known throughout Costa Rica for its healing powers, and many pilgrims visit the city annually Costa Rica event celebrating the feast day of the Virgin of the Angels i.e. held on August 2.

A naturally beautiful area, to the north of Cartago lies the fuming Irazu Volcano, while to the south sits the lovely Parque Nacional Chirripo National Park. Visit this park and climb Central America’s highest peak, Cerro Chirripo. It stands at a height of 12,529 feet. An ideal climb for aggressive hikers, trekking this mountain demands a lot of sweat and determination. You need a pair of good hiking shoes, layers on cloth since the climate changes dramatically. You need food for 2 - 3 day as well as water. More in Chirripo National Park, and ExploreCostaRica.com's hiking experience.

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Costa Rica Area Info: Central Valley: Costa Rica Hotels: Things to Do: San Jose: Central Valley Hotels: Central Valley Restaurants Costa Rica Hotels: Central Valley: Places to Eat

San Jose Guide:

San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica, is the hub of all transportation in Costa Rica. For that reason, it is usually the first place you will visit while in Costa Rica. It lies between three Costa Rica volcanoes. There is a large variety of Costa Rica hotels, parks, restaurants and attractions for visitors. The first thing noticed about San Jose is the local friendliness. The city is set up on a pretty logical grid system. When on foot and touring the capital, Costa Ricans, also known as Ticos, are always willing to lend a hand with directions. Always remember though, locals use landmarks not street names for directions, and if you just can't figure out where you are, find a local church. Every church in Costa Rica faces west. While in the Capital, you have access to the best public transportation in all of Central America.  

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