National Theater, San Jose

The National Theater, or Teatro Nacional, opened to the public in 1897 and is located in the heart of San Jose, Costa Rica's capital city. It is located on the south end of Plaza de la Cultura, a well-known pedestrian plaza. The neoclassical style of the Paris Opera House inspired the design of the National Theater. A statue of Beethoven and Calderón de la Barca, a well-known 17th-century Spanish dramatist, are featured on the columned neoclassical facade. The theater's interior is ornately furnished, with a marble foyer and an auditorium filled with 19th-century artworks depicting everyday life. Splendid architecture along with luxurious interiors make this building one of the most beautiful historical sites in Costa Rica.

During a time when the country's wealth was based on coffee exports, the National Theatre served as a cultural asset. It features high-quality performances that meet stringent artistic standards. The building is recognized for its gorgeous interior, which features expensive furnishings, and is regarded the best historic edifice in the capital.

The National Theater now is a tourist attraction in addition to hosting shows many times a week. The National Symphonic Orchestra (NSO) performs works by both Costa Rican and foreign composers as part of the orchestra's regular season.

Location: San José, Costa Rica