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National Monument of Costa Rica
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Landmark
The National Monument of Costa Rica is located in the National Park of San José and is considered the most significant historical monument in the country. It was unveiled on September 15, 1895, to commemorate the victory of the Central American nations over the filibusters led by William Walker during the National Campaign of 1856-1857. The impressive bronze monument was crafted in Paris by the French sculptor Louis-Robert Carrier-Belleuse. The sculpture depicts five women symbolizing the Central American republics: Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Costa Rica is positioned at the center holding the flag, leading the other nations to expel the invader, who is represented by a fleeing man. The monument rests on a massive granite pedestal and includes reliefs depicting crucial battles such as Rivas and Santa Rosa. It serves as a powerful symbol of national sovereignty, liberty, and regional unity against external threats.
- Location: Costa Rica
- Top sights: Museo Nacional de Costa Rica · Plaza de la Democracia · Museum of Contemporary Art and Design
- Nearby: Mercedes (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 119 | 70 | 76 | 117 | 243 | 239 | 253 | 214 | 231 | 285 | 258 | 162 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Monument of Costa Rica is located in the National Park in San José and is freely accessible. The bronze sculpture can be viewed from all sides and is a popular photo subject.
Typical hours
The park containing the monument is usually open during daytime. The monument itself has no specific visiting hours as it is outdoors.
Photography
Photography of the monument is allowed at any time and encouraged. Be careful not to damage the surrounding green area.
Time needed
A short visit takes 15 to 30 minutes. Combined with a stroll through the park, you can plan for an hour.
Combine with
The monument is located in the National Park, which also contains other sculptures and memorials. Nearby are the National Museum and the Art Museum.
Getting there
The National Park is centrally located in San José and easily reachable on foot. Buses and taxis also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the monument early in the morning for the best light for photos. The park is also less crowded then.
Geography
Facts
- The monument was officially unveiled on September 15, 1895.
- It was created by the renowned French sculptor Louis-Robert Carrier-Belleuse.
- The group of figures is made of bronze and rests on a granite base.
- Five female figures represent the allied Central American republics.
- Four reliefs on the pedestal depict scenes from the 1856-1857 campaign.
- It celebrates the victory over William Walker and his filibuster army.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Monument of Costa Rica (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the National Monument located?
In the National Park (Parque Nacional) in central San José.
What does the monument represent?
It commemorates the 1856 victory over William Walker and the filibusters.
Who created the sculpture?
The French sculptor Louis-Robert Carrier-Belleuse.
How many figures are on the monument?
There are five female figures representing the Central American nations.
Is the park safe at night?
It is recommended to avoid the park after dark.
National Monument of Costa Rica: where is it located?
National Monument of Costa Rica is located in Costa Rica.
National Monument of Costa Rica: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, Plaza de la Democracia, Museum of Contemporary Art and Design.
National Monument of Costa Rica: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
National Monument of Costa Rica: why is it worth visiting?
The National Monument of Costa Rica is located in the National Park of San José and is considered the most significant historical monument in the country.
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