Sightseeing Attractions in Cartago

Cartago is one of the seven provinces that constitute Costa Rica. Situated on the Atlantic side of the continental divide, the Cartago region stretches between the Reventazón River valley and the surrounding Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the north and Cerro de la Muerte and Mount Chirripó to the south.

 Founded in 1563 by Juan Vasquez de Coronado, Cartago was the first Spanish settlement in Costa Rica. Cartago was the capital of Costa Rica until 1823 but had to go forgo this privilege to San José because of its proximity with the Irazu Volcano that nearly destroyed the city in 1723.

 Visit Cartago and take a step back in time as you see the 16th century ruins that provide an interesting insight into the rich history and culture of the pre-Columbian inhabitants. The lush green vegetation that characterized the region was later cleared by the Spanish settlers who made the Cartago region their home. The picturesque villages in the Cartago region stand testimony to an era gone by.

 Cartago has much to offer the visitors, who come to experience its amazing past, explore its historical monuments, or marvel its natural attractions.

 Basilica de Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles: This impressive Byzantine style basilica is dedicated to Virgen de los Pardos, officially known as la Virgen de los Ángeles (the Lady of the Angels). The church houses the miraculous La Negrita or Black Madonna, a statue known for its healing powers. It attracts pilgrims from across the world on August 2, the feast day of the Virgin of the Angels.

 Irazu Volcano National Park: The National Park is home to the active Irazu Volcano. The highest volcano in Costa Rica, the Irazu volcano has witnessed 23 eruptions since 1723, last being in1963. The major attraction in this park is the lake at Diego de la Haya Crater with its unusual bright greenish and yellow water.

 Parque Nacional Chirripó: Located in the south of Cartago, the Parque Nacional Chirripó is Costa Rica's most famous mountain park. Visitors can climb Cerro Chirripó, Central America's highest peak, at a height of 12,529 feet. The park is ideal for hiking and trekking and exploring the natural vegetation with its exotic wildlife. The climb is aggressive but rewarding.

 Orosi Valley: This scenic Orosi valley lies at about an hour's drive southeast of San José, just beyond the town of Paraíso. The panoramic vistas en route showcase the best of Cartago's natural attractions. The town of Orosi houses the country's oldest church that dates back to the 1700's. The church, which has survived many earthquakes, features altars and shrines beautifully carved from wood. There are several natural thermal springs in the valley, which are known for their curative powers.

 The Ruins: This archaeological site in Cartago contains the ruins of an uncompleted church that was destroyed in the 1910 earthquake. There is a garden with an interesting collection of flowers in the remaining walls. A major landmark of down town Cartago, The Ruins is a good place to relax and observe the local life.