The Central Valley is the heart of Costa Rica. In it, among the green highlands and ample valleys, lies the nation's capital. San Jose sits at an altitude of 3.770 feet above sea level, and is said to have an almost perfect climate. In some ways it is a modern area, but in others, it still holds the charma of an old town with amicable residents.
San Jose
San Jose was the third city in the world to have public electric lighting. The progressive mentality of the country went further. It was one of the first nations to have public telephones; the first in Central America to start an initiative for free and obligatory education for all of its citizens; and the first to allow women to attend school.
During the last years of the 1950's, the country's main influences swtched from Europe to the United States. For this reason, several of the most graceful and ornate buildings in the city werw torn down and replaced by harsh copies of American modern architecture.
Upon first glance, the city might appear as a dense and unattractive area. But, you only have to be patient and allow yourself to be surprised by the interesting mix of modern buildings and classical architecture.
The heart of the country
If there's a pleasant city to get to know on foot, this is certainly it. It offers a full range of restaurants, shopping malls, varied styles of accomodations, museums and a very active nightlife.
Here are a couple of things you need to know in order to move around successfully in San Jose. The city is divided into streets and avenues that follow a grid pattern. Avenida Central (Central Avenue) separates the north and south, while Calle Central (Central Street) separates the East and West. References are commonly made to meters, not blocks. So remember: one block is the equivalent of 100 meters; and it doesn't matter how long it actually is; it will always be referred to as 100 meters.
This unique city offers a variety of interesting destinations. City tours include a visit to the remarkable National Theater. This architectural jewel celebrated its 105th birthday in the year 2002. Neoclassic in style, it has four levels, a very well equipped stage system and excellent acoustics.
San Jose
It was modeled after the grand Paris Opera House, and the main audience seating floor is adjustable to different heights. All of the details were done by Spanish and Italian artisans. The finished product, one of the country's pride and glory, was built with the contribution of a wide sector of small coffee growers, and the official patronage of 19th century coffee barons. It was inaugurated in 1897. It definitely is a must, and you can stop for a bite at the Theater's elegant coffee place.
The past, today
Barrio Amon, a residential area in the center of the city, is both an architectural jewel and a way to relive the Costa Rica of younder. The distinction and elegance of the houses that used to make up this quiet part of town is amazing, located as they are only a few blocks from downtown San Jose.
Just like the origins of its name, Amon has a French feeling and building style. During the mid1950's, it became the cultural axis of the capital's burgeiose. The creation and expansion of this sector of town was strongly linked to the changes in daily life of the people of San Jose.
A short walk through the small streets is enough to get the complete feeling of this group of beautiful houses trapped in time.
