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Metal Church of Grecia
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Landmark
The Church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes in Grecia, globally known as the 'Metal Church,' is an architectural curiosity in Costa Rica. The entire structure is made of prefabricated steel plates imported from Belgium at the end of the 19th century. The decision to build a metal edifice was made after several earthquakes had destroyed previous adobe churches in the region. Although the design is often mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel, it was actually produced by a Belgian foundry. The red-painted steel plates were shipped to the port of Limón, transported by rail to Alajuela, and finally hauled to Grecia by oxcarts. Its Neogothic architecture features delicate windows and pointed steeples, which stand in sharp contrast to the industrial material used. Inside, the church surprises visitors with wood-grained painting on the metal surfaces, creating a warm atmosphere. It was declared a National Historic Monument in 1992 and remains a unique example of 19th-century industrial import architecture.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Top sights: Grecia, Costa Rica · Grecia (canton)
- Nearby: Aguas Zarcas (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 22 | 29 | 77 | 220 | 209 | 185 | 198 | 256 | 301 | 188 | 70 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Metal Church of Grecia is an active place of worship and can usually be visited during opening hours. The interior is accessible when no mass is being held.
Typical hours
Churches of this type typically open daily, often 7:00-18:00 with a lunch break. It is advisable to check local notices before visiting.
Photography
Photography inside is allowed without flash to protect the unique metal interior. Exterior shots of the entire steel structure are highly recommended.
Time needed
A visit takes about 20-30 minutes to admire the architecture and the imported steel plates. Allow time for the adjacent parking and town center.
Combine with
Grecia itself has a nice central park and a traditional market. Nearby are coffee plantations and Poás Volcano National Park.
Getting there
Grecia is reachable by car from San José in about 45 minutes via the highway. There are also regular bus services from San Carlos Terminal in San José.
Insider tip
Combine the visit with a trip to the nearby coffee plantations for a tour. The church is best photographed in the late morning with clear skies.
Geography
Facts
- The church is constructed entirely of steel plates from Belgium.
- Construction began in 1891 and took several years to complete.
- The designs were produced by the 'Forges d'Aiseau' company in Belgium.
- The facade's deep red color is a trademark of the city of Grecia.
- Metal pieces were transported from Alajuela station using oxcarts.
- It was designated a National Architectural Heritage site in 1992.
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Sights in the town Metal Church of Grecia (2)
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Frequently asked questions
Is the church in Grecia really made of metal?
Yes, it is entirely made of prefabricated steel plates from Belgium.
Where did the material come from?
It was imported from Belgium in the late 19th century.
What color is the church?
It is painted in a distinctive dark red color.
Is there a park nearby?
Yes, it is located right next to the beautiful central park of Grecia.
Is it hot inside the church?
Despite the metal structure, high ceilings keep it relatively ventilated.
Metal Church of Grecia: where is it located?
Metal Church of Grecia is located in Costa Rica.
Metal Church of Grecia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Grecia, Costa Rica, Grecia (canton).
Metal Church of Grecia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Metal Church of Grecia: why is it worth visiting?
The Church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes in Grecia, globally known as the 'Metal Church,' is an architectural curiosity in Costa Rica.
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