Costa Rica Attractions: Art Museum

The Costa Rican Art Museum located at Parque La Sabana, is a good start from the west side of the city. Several art collections depict the best of the fine arts created in Costa Rica throughout history, with the work of national masters in techniques such as water color, oil, and sculpture.

The excellently preserved building used to be the city's international airport. It recreates an atmosphere resembling the 1950's architectural style. The museum is open Tue-Sun 9:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m.

One of the capital's real gems is the National Museum (Museo Nacional), housed in the 114-year-old Bellavista Fortress, a former army barracks that sports a few bullet holes in its towers. But not to worry. Costa Rica has no more army and the building's central courtyard, overlooking the Plaza de la Democracia, is one of the most peaceful settings in the center of the crowded city.

With one of the country's most active research facilities and educational programs, the National Museum is one of those "little bit of everything" places. It really shines when it comes to Costa Rica's indigenous heritage and environmental exhibits. (Calle 17, Ave. Central /2; open Tue-Sun 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.)

The imposing castle-like building just north of downtown houses the Children's Museum (Museo del Niño). Believe it or not, this used to be the city's prison. (Ave. 9, Calle 4; open Tue-Fri 8 a.m., 3 p.m., Sat-Sun 10 a.m., 4 p.m.)

At another museum nearby, all that glitters is gold. The Gold Museum (Museo de Oro), below the Plaza de la Cultura, is part of a complex of museums operated by Costa Rica's Central Bank. The museum's vaults showcase yet another collection of pre-Columbian art. Among these displays, 2,300 pieces of gold jewelry, armored plates, and objects of religious devotion can be admired and studied. (Calle 5, Ave. Central/2; open Tue-Sun 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

Costa Rica's venue for modern art is the Contemporary Art and Design Museum (Museo del Dise-o y Arte Contempo-raneo). Facing Parque Nacional, it is housed in the large arts complex known as the National Cultural Center (Centro Nacional de Cultura) which was once part of the National Liquor Factory. Fittingly, the Ministry of Culture has its offices in this complex, too. (Ave. 3, Calle 15/17; open Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.)

All Costa Rica city museums charge an admission fee. Inquire at the entrance area for rates and discounts for children.

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