Indigenous Culture

Indigenous Costa Ricans, also known as Native Costa Ricans, are the descendants of people who lived in what is now Costa Rica prior to European and African contact. Indigenous Costa Ricans work hard to preserve their cultural traditions and language. Costa Ricans, like most Latin Americans, are proud of their country, and this is reflected in celebrations and customs held throughout the country. The yearly religious pilgrimage to the Basilica of Cartago known as "Romera," in which over two million people participate, is one of the most notable festivals in Costa Rica.

Costa Rican culture left few artifacts, most of which are modest products such as pottery and jewelry. The most notable are the stone spheres (seen on the right) discovered in the country's south (region of the Térraba river in Palmar Sur/Palmar Norte). Some of these spheres weigh up to 15 tons, and it's unclear how they were made, transported, or what they were intended for.

San José, Costa Rica's capital city, is the place to go to learn about the country's history. This city is home to the country's major museums, including the Costa Rican Art Museum and the National Museum, which display archaeological items and natural specimens. These places represent a significant element of the country's identity, and you should surely include them on your "Pura Vida" checklist.