Architecture of Costa Rica

The architecture of Costa Rica includes remains from the pre-Columbian Era, all the way to modern buildings that form part of the nation's contemporary infrastructure.

The contemporary architectural scene in Costa Rica has also captured global attention, exemplified by structures such as Casa Flotanta.

This is reflected in the distinctive and extensive presence of canopy bridges throughout the nation, constructed in the aim of preventing rainforest destruction.

Minimal structures remain in Costa Rica from the pre-Columbian era, which is a large attraction of many other nations in Latin America.

[3] Examples of pre-Columbian era constructions in Latin America include Machu Picchu and the Pyramid of the Sun.

The basilica is devoted to the Virgen de los Ángeles who is known as la Negrita; the patron saint of Costa Rica.

[14] A pilgrimage occurs annually on the 2nd of August, with people from across Costa Rica complete a 22 km walk from San Jose to the basilica.

Las Ruinas de la Parroquia, or the Santiago Apóstol Parish Ruins, are a Costa Rican heritage site constructed in the colonial era in honour of the Roman Catholic Church.

[16] Folktale exists around the establishment and construction of the Church, A popular story describes the fight of two brothers; a bitter priest and a single man, who fell in love with the same woman.

Locals and tour guides encourage the story that the headless ghost of the brother haunts the site to this day.

[20] Examples of modern architectural sites include Containers of Hope, Tropical Atrium, and Casa Flotanta.

[28] The materials chosen to build the house reflect this, utilizing modular metal elements in conjunction with wooden accents.

[31] This design style is economically efficient, saving the expense of constructing retaining walls and also enabling the natural vegetation and environment to continue to thrive under and around the house.

[33] Thus, the house is not disruptive to the rich eco-system prominent in Costa Rica, whilst providing highly praised ocean views.

[31] Additionally, due to high rates of seismic activity in Costa Rica, the house was constructed from pre-fabricated galvanized steel.

Thus, not only do the bridges aid in the preservation of Costa Rica's vast rainforests, they also make exploring these areas more efficient.

[36] Additionally, they are generally made from material such as metal that is strong enough to withstand the weather conditions of Costa Rica.