Historical Buildings Tour (Self Guided), San Jose

What's known today as San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, came into being as a small settlement during the Spanish invasion, circa the mid-16th century. From a town of little importance, San Jose eventually evolved into a densely-populated cosmopolitan city, built mostly with proceeds from coffee trade.

The historic architecture of San Jose is a mix of European and Latin American styles with buildings dating back mostly to the end of the 19th – beginning of the 20th centuries. Just as imposing today as they were 100 years ago, these former benchmarks of good taste and prosperity, having survived numerous demolitions and works carried out in the heart of the capital over time, continue silently observing the ongoing history of San José amid its daily hustle and bustle.

Central Post Office – a monumental, elegant structure of an eclectic style and notable French influence, built between 1914 and 1917. Metropolitan Cathedral – originally mud-and-straw, this 18th-century church eventually took the shape of a concrete edifice with Salomonic columns that had survived numerous earthquakes prior to being remodeled and converted into the Metropolitan Cathedral it is today.

Teatro Popular Melico Salazar – completed in 1928; was renamed in the 1980s to honor Manuel “Melico” Salazar, one of the most recognized Costa Rican opera stars. Grand Hotel Costa Rica – one of the most distinguished hotels in San Jose, built in 1928-1930; many famous international guests traveling to Costa Rica have stayed here. The National Theater – built from 1890 to 1897; an ambitious project funded by local coffee oligarchs. Lavishly adorned with sculptures and paintings by renowned Italian artists.

For a closer look at these and other prominent monuments of historic architecture in San Jose, take this self-guided walking tour.