Cartago

Introducing Cartago

After the rubble was cleared, nobody bothered to rebuild Cartago (population 127, 000) to its former quaint specifications – though it is an attractive modern city, in a heavily reinforced sort of way. One exception is the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, considered to be the holiest shrine in Costa Rica and has been religiously rebuilt after each of the city’s trials and tribulations.

The city is thrown briefly into the spotlight each year on August 2 when pilgrims from every corner of the country descend on the basilica to say their most serious prayers. The remainder of the year, Cartago exists mainly as a bustling commercial and residential center, though the beauty of the surrounding mountains helps to take the edge off modern life.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009