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 the city's enduring spirit.
The Ruins of Cartago, also known as Las Ruinas de la Parroquia, are the haunting remains of a 16th-century church, the Parroquia de Santiago Apóstol, never fully completed due to devastating earthquakes. Located in the heart of Cartago, Costa Rica's former capital, the ruins stand as a testament to the city's resilience and rich colonial history.
A brief summary to Ruins of Cartago
- V37H+PX4, C. 0, Cartago, Cartago Province, CR
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or an hour before sunset for the best light and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Explore the nearby local market for an authentic taste of Costa Rican cuisine.
- Check out the neo-Gothic Church of Maria Auxiliadora and the historic Pririe Building, located a few blocks away.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San José, frequent buses depart from the Coca-Cola terminal to Cartago. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $2. Alternatively, a train runs from the Atlántico Station in San José to Cartago on weekdays, costing $1-2. From the bus terminal or train station in Cartago, it's about a 15-minute walk to the ruins. A one-way ticket on local transport within Cartago costs about $1.
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Walking
The Ruins of Cartago are centrally located in front of the main square, making them easily accessible on foot from most locations in downtown Cartago. From the Basilica de Los Angeles, it's a pleasant five-block walk. No costs are associated with walking.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cartago. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost approximately $3-$5. Taxi starting price is about $1.60, and the cost per mile is about $1.50. Note that prices may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Paseo Metrópoli
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Terramall
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Hotel Rinconcito Verde
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Antiguas Torres de Radio Monumental
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Cuesta las Ortencias
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Salón Comunal Bruncas
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Urbanizacion Bruncas
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Wilkcr
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cartago
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Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles - Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels
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Iztarú Park
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Jardín Botánico Lankester
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Paraíso Park
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valle de orosi
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La Carpintera Canopy Tour
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El camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9
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Mirador de Orosi
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Ruinas de Ujarrás
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Parroquia San José de Orosi
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Museo de Arte Religioso de San José de Orosi
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Iglesia Colonial de Orosi
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Balneario De Aguas Termales De Orosi (Los Martines)
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Fossil Land
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Essential places to dine
Orosi Al Natural Restaurante
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Hotel y Restaurante La Casona del Cafetal
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Bocadito de cielo
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Olakino Café & Bistró
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Árbol de Seda
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Samadhi
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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replicante human store
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Santos.cr
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Secret Store
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Lowest Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Hoplers
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