Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército: A Symbol of Peace
Discover San José's Plaza de la Democracia: a symbol of Costa Rica's commitment to peace, democracy, and cultural heritage.
The Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército (Plaza of Democracy and the Abolition of the Military) in San José, Costa Rica, stands as a powerful symbol of the country's commitment to peace and democracy. Inaugurated in 1989, the plaza commemorates Costa Rica's bold decision to abolish its army in 1948 and serves as a gathering place for cultural and social events.
A brief summary to Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
- WWMH+448, Av. Central, San José, Bella Vista, San José Province, CR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the historical significance of the plaza and its monuments.
- Check local event listings for cultural performances or markets that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Teatro Nacional, walk approximately 10-15 minutes east along Avenida Central. The Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército will be on your right, located next to the Museo Nacional.
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Public Transport
Several bus routes serve the Plaza de la Democracia. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. Bus fares typically cost around ₡500-₡800 per ride. Some bus stops near the plaza include Teatro Lucho Barahona, Frente A Museo Nacional De Costa Rica, and Cercanías A El Rincón De Buenos Aires.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San José. Simply enter 'Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército, San José' as your destination. A ride from the Central Valley to the plaza typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs between ₡10,000 to ₡15,000.
Discover more about Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the heart of San José, next to Plaza de la Democracia. A culinary landmark for over two decades.
Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez en San José, Costa Rica
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Blue Castle - Legislature
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Discover the Blue Castle, Costa Rica's Legislative Assembly in San José, a symbol of democracy and political history. A must-see landmark!
Monge
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Discover the latest appliances and electronics at Monge, conveniently located near San José's beautiful Parque Morazán.
Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
0.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in San José, a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Monumento don José de San Martín
0.4 km
A tribute to South American independence hero, General José de San Martín, in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Monumento a Carlos Gardel
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Galería Talentum
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Alma De Cafe
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Experience Costa Rican coffee culture inside San José's iconic National Theatre. A perfect blend of history, art, and flavor.
El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
0.6 km
A historical landmark and meeting point on San José's bustling Avenida Central, featuring a sculpted fountain and clock tower.
SJ letrero
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Casa Solera
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Plaza Juan Mora Fernández
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Barrio chino
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Teatro de la Aduana
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Unmissable attractions to see
National Museum of Costa Rica
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Museo del Jade
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Explore the rich archaeological heritage of Costa Rica at the Museo del Jade, home to the largest collection of jade artifacts in the Americas.
PrimercircuitoJudicialdeSan Jose
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City of Color Murals
0.1 km
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Costa Rica Tours
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through expertly guided tours in San José Province.
Plaza de la Libertad Electoral
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Parque Nacional
0.3 km
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Av. Central
0.3 km
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MADC
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Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at MADC, where Costa Rican creativity comes to life through unique exhibitions and engaging experiences.
Plaza de las Artes
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Parque España
0.4 km
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Botánica Chocolate
0.4 km
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Templo de la Música
0.5 km
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Morazán Park
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Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
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Essential places to dine
Sapore Trattoria San José
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La Esquina de Buenos Aires
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Tin Jo Restaurant
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Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
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Amor de Barrio
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Azotea Calle 7
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El Buen Comer
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Del Mar
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Café Otoya
0.4 km
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Centro Gastronómico Avenida La Cali
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Kubrick
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La Criollita
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Valicha Cocina Peruana
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HOWM
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Marelis Kitchen Restaurante y Cafetería
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Artesanias y Souvenirs diduGO
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Arteria
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Tienda Ropa Americana
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Flea Room
0.3 km
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District Shop
0.4 km
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Baula Souvenir Shop
0.4 km
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El Taller CR
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La Salamandra
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Tienda Eñe
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Asianshopcr
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Lucky Store
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Chinese Center Articles
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Corset Lovers CR
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Puerta 23
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Municipal Crafts Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Casa Félix
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Area City Bar
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House Pub La Cali
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INK Cactus
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Butts Bar Metal
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Bahamas
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La Flota
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Mercado La California
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La Concha de la Lora
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Koktela
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Bar La Cali
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Rafa's Bar
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LOCAL
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Chubbs Bar
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El Social Morazán
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Boiler
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La Chicha
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Puchos
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Club Avalon
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Spectro Club
0.7 km
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Pink Panther Club
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Sport Bar Panterito
0.7 km
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El Sub
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Vip´s
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Neon
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Bar Jet set
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Club Alcazar
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Night Club Arcadas
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Fiesta Latina
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Zona Rosa
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