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Ruinas de Ujarrás: Echoes of Colonial Costa Rica

Discover Costa Rica's colonial past at the Ruinas de Ujarrás, a historic church ruin surrounded by tranquil gardens in the Orosi Valley.

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Explore the evocative Ruinas de Ujarrás, the remnants of one of Costa Rica's oldest churches, dating back to the 16th century. Nestled in the lush Orosi Valley, these ruins offer a glimpse into the country's colonial past, framed by serene gardens and stunning views.

A brief summary to Ruinas de Ujarrás

  • R5H7+4GF, Ujarrás, Cartago Province, CR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter, more contemplative experience.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings of the park.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Lake Cachí or the Orosi Valley.
  • Check for local events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Cartago, take the local bus (route 340) towards Ujarrás. Buses depart from Cartago twice daily. The bus will take you to Parque Recreativo Charrarra, which is a short walk from the ruins. The bus fare is approximately ₡600 CRC. From Paraíso, take the local bus (route 340) towards Ujarrás. Buses depart from Paraíso twice daily. The bus will take you to Parque Recreativo Charrarra, which is a short walk from the ruins.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Cartago and Paraíso. A taxi from Paraíso to Ruinas de Ujarrás will cost approximately $11 - $14 USD and take about 10 minutes. A taxi from the Cartago bus terminal will take about 15-20 minutes. Confirm the destination and price with the driver before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Ruinas de Ujarrás

The Ruinas de Ujarrás, located in the Cartago Province of Costa Rica, stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era. These ruins are the remains of what was once one of Costa Rica's oldest churches, originally constructed in the late 16th century. The church, formally known as the Templo de la Purísima Concepción del Rescate, holds a special place in Costa Rican history and folklore. Legend says that the church's origin is linked to an indigenous fisherman who discovered a statue of the Virgin Mary in a wooden box. Unable to move the statue, the community built the church around it. The church served as a vital religious and social center for the Orosi Valley. It is dedicated to the Virgen del Rescate (Virgin of the Rescue), commemorating a miraculous intervention during a pirate attack led by Eduard Mansvelt and Henry Morgan. The original structure was a simple construction that was rebuilt with adobe, before finally being constructed in limestone in 1697. Over time, floods, earthquakes, and disease took their toll. The town was eventually evacuated in 1832 and moved to Paraíso. Today, the ruins are surrounded by gardens, creating a peaceful space for reflection and exploration. Visitors can wander through the roofless structure, admire the remaining walls and arches, and imagine life in colonial Costa Rica. The site is a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. Every year, on the Sunday closest to April 14th, a pilgrimage honoring the Virgen del Rescate takes place, with a procession from Paraíso to the ruins, followed by a mass, food, and festivities.

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