Ruins of Cartago: Echoes of Costa Rica's Colonial Past
Explore the hauntingly beautiful Ruins of Cartago, a historical landmark showcasing Costa Rica's colonial past and resilience against natural disasters.
The Ruins of Cartago, or Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol, are the haunting remains of a 16th-century church in Cartago, Costa Rica's former capital. Never fully completed due to devastating earthquakes, the ruins stand as a testament to the city's resilience and offer a glimpse into its colonial history.
A brief summary to Ruins of Cartago
- V37H+PX4, C. 0, Cartago, Cartago Province, CR
- Monday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 7 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 7 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the most favorable weather to explore the outdoor site.
- Go early in the morning or an hour before sunset for the best light for photography.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Walking
The Ruins of Cartago are located in the heart of Cartago, directly in front of the Plaza Mayor. From most points in downtown Cartago, the ruins are easily accessible on foot. Simply walk towards the central plaza, and you'll find the ruins on the east side.
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Public Transport
If arriving from San José, take the bus to Cartago. Buses depart frequently from Avenida 2 in San José and cost approximately $2. Once in Cartago, the ruins are a short walk from the bus terminal. Alternatively, take the train from Estación Atlántico in San José to Cartago for $1-2. The ruins are also close to the Cartago train station.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cartago. A short taxi ride from the outskirts of the city to the Ruins should cost approximately 4250 CRC for a 5km ride. Confirm the rate with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Ruins of Cartago
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Paseo Metrópoli
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Terramall
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Hotel Rinconcito Verde
9.8 km
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Paseo peatonal la cometa
12.2 km
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Samaná Farm
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Antiguas Torres de Radio Monumental
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La Colina Park
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Reserva Natural Privada Cerro Alto
14.0 km
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Cuesta las Ortencias
15.6 km
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Salón Comunal Bruncas
15.9 km
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Urbanizacion Bruncas
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My Costa Rica
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Agüizotes Gastro Pub
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Hostel Finca Escalante
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Wilkcr
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cartago
0.1 km
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Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles - Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels
0.8 km
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Iztarú Park
1.0 km
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Jardín Botánico Lankester
4.3 km
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Paraíso Park
6.6 km
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valle de orosi
6.8 km
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La Carpintera Canopy Tour
7.1 km
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El camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9
7.9 km
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Mirador de Orosi
8.5 km
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Ruinas de Ujarrás
10.0 km
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Parroquia San José de Orosi
10.2 km
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Museo de Arte Religioso de San José de Orosi
10.2 km
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Iglesia Colonial de Orosi
10.3 km
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Balneario De Aguas Termales De Orosi (Los Martines)
10.4 km
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Fossil Land
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Essential places to dine
Orosi Al Natural Restaurante
10.1 km
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Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal
12.6 km
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Bocadito de cielo
15.1 km
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Coco de Rasta | Rastaurante
15.2 km
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Cabo & El Fuego Smokehouse
15.8 km
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Le Chandelier
16.6 km
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Donde Carlos Parrillada Argentina
16.9 km
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Soda Yogui's
17.0 km
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Olakino Café & Bistró
17.0 km
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Na Praia Seafood & Raw Bar
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La Casona de Laly • Alameda
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Sikwa Restaurante en Costa Rica
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Árbol de Seda
17.4 km
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Samadhi
17.5 km
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La Yerbatera
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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replicante human store
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PriceSmart
9.0 km
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Locos y Santos
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Santos.cr
13.1 km
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Secret Store
13.6 km
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Multiplaza Curridabat
15.1 km
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Zona Brunca
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Ruta Vintage
16.1 km
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La Tienda Un Mundo Fan
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Lowest Shop
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Línea U Store • UCR
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Fashion District Outlet Store
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Tesoros Americanos Costa Rica
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CLICK Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Moes Pub Rock
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Bar calberdos
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El Pub
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Bar Picis
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Pilos Bar
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Chiri's Bar
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Bar El Páramo
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Tribù Wine Bar
12.0 km
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Sanaa Coast
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El Balcon Discoteque
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Bar Reventados
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Café Viñas
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Hoplers
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15NA PUB
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Astral Speakeasy Bar
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