Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
most important contemporary-art museum in the region, MADC is focused on showing the
works of contemporary Costa Rican, Central American and South American artists and oc-
casionally features temporary exhibits devoted to interior design, fashion and graphic art.
Parque España
PARK
Surrounded by heavy traffic, Parque España may be small, but it becomes a riot of bird-
song every day at sunset when the local avian population comes in to roost. In addition to
being a good spot for a shady break, the park is home to an ornate statue of Christopher
Columbus that was given to the people of Costa Rica in 2002 by his descendants, com-
memorating the quincentennial of the explorer's landing in Puerto Limón.
Barrio Amón
NEIGHBORHOOD
North and west of Plaza España lies this pleasant, historic neighborhood, home to a cluster
of
cafetalero
(coffee grower) mansions constructed during the late 19th and early 20th
centuries. In recent years, many of the area's historic buildings have been converted into
hotels, restaurants and offices, making this a popular district for an architectural stroll.
You'll find everything from art deco concrete manses to brightly painted tropical Victorian
structures in various states of upkeep. It is a key arts center.
Parque Morazán
PARK
To the southwest of the Parque España is Parque Morazán, named for Francisco Morazán,
the 19th-century general who attempted to unite the Central American nations under a
single flag. Once a notorious center of prostitution, the park is now beautifully illuminated
)
, a concrete bandstand that serves as an unofficial symbol of San José.
Edificio Metálico
NOTABLE BUILDING
