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Galería Namú: A Celebration of Indigenous Art

Discover authentic indigenous and folk art at Galería Namú in San José, supporting Costa Rican artists through fair trade practices.

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Galería Namú in San José is dedicated to showcasing and preserving the art of Costa Rica's indigenous and folk artists. The gallery offers a diverse collection of artwork, inspired by the country's natural beauty, and operates on fair trade principles.

A brief summary to Galería Namú

  • Av. 7, San José, El Carmen, San José Province, CR
  • +50688009252

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience and more personal attention from the knowledgeable staff.
  • Ask about the stories and cultural significance behind the art pieces to deepen your appreciation.
  • Check the gallery's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours, as they may vary.
  • Explore the surrounding Barrio Amon, known for its historic architecture and cultural attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Galería Namú is located in downtown San José, specifically in Barrio Amon, behind the Holiday Inn tower. From Parque Central, walk approximately 5 blocks north and 2 blocks east. Look for the Holiday Inn, and Galería Namú is situated just behind it.

  • Public Transport

    Many local buses serve the downtown San José area. Check local bus routes for the closest stop to Avenida 7 and Calle 5. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to the Holiday Inn, with the Galería Namú located directly behind it. Bus fares within San José are typically less than $1.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San José. Provide the driver with the address, Avenida 7, San José, El Carmen, and indicate it's near the Holiday Inn in Barrio Amon. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs around ₡2,374 CRC for 5km. Be sure the driver uses the meter ('maría').

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Discover more about Galería Namú

Galería Namú, located in the historic Barrio Amon of downtown San José, is a unique art gallery that celebrates the legacy and artistic traditions of Costa Rica's indigenous peoples. The gallery's name, meaning "jaguar" in the Bribri language, pays homage to the sacred animal in many Central American tribes. Founded in 1998, Galería Namú distinguishes itself as the only gallery in Costa Rica featuring art from all eight of the country's surviving indigenous tribes, as well as folk art. The gallery offers a wide range of indigenous and folk art, including ceremonial masks, woven baskets, tagua nut carvings, and jewelry. These pieces reflect the artists' deep connection to the natural world and their cultural heritage. Galería Namú is committed to fair trade practices, ensuring that local artists receive immediate and equitable payment for their work. This commitment supports the economic sustainability of indigenous communities and helps preserve their artistic traditions. Visitors to Galería Namú can explore the diverse collection of art, learn about the traditions and cultures of Costa Rica's indigenous tribes, and purchase authentic, handcrafted souvenirs. The gallery provides informative brochures about each piece, offering insights into its cultural significance and artistic creation.

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