San Jose

The energetic capital of Costa Rica, San José reflects the rich cultural tapestry and lively character of this Central American country. Tucked in Costa Rica’s mid-west of the Central Valley, it is the hub of political, business, and cultural activity. Being the capital of San José Province, this energetic city not only boasts the biggest population in the nation but also a major center for government and transportation.

Originally founded by the Cabildo de León in 1736, San José’s historical roots are closely entwined with colonial growth and planning. Having three times been the capital of the country, it has developed over centuries into a city of strategic significance. With more than a million people walking its streets every day, it today reflects Costa Rica’s development.

Several of Costa Rica’s most beloved cultural sites call the city home. While the National Theatre of Costa Rica highlights its active cultural scene, the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica provides a peek into the nation’s rich past. La Sabana Metropolitan Park offers a verdant, green haven in the middle of the metropolis for those yearning a change of environment. The adjacent Juan Santamaría International Airport guarantees that San José stays reachable to passengers from all across the world.

San José stands out among Latin American cities in terms of security, quality of living, and degree of globalization. Its efficient public services and environmental performance helped it to be identified in 2012 as one of the least violent and safest cities in the area. The Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC) named the city a “Beta-” global metropolis, therefore underlining its increasing impact on the world scene. Joining the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities in 2016, San José demonstrated its dedication to education and lifetime learning.