San Jose: Sights

 San Jose is home to a number of very pleasing and impressive buildings, we would be remiss if we didn't spend a little bit of time showcasing our favorites. The National Museum of Costa Rica is housed in an old military barracks, which still bears the bullet holes of the civil war in 1948 (as an interesting aside, after the civil war, the victors disbanded the army and Costa Rica has never reinstated a military force since) We tried to visit this museum several times in our stay, but its hours are not posted and it turned out to be closed the entire time we were there, but the grounds are quite striking.

 There are 3 main cathedrals in the downtown core, along with several smaller churches, but the Iglesia Nuestra Senora de la Soledad is my personal pic to share with everyone. Not only is it a beautiful building, but I find the state of Mary standing on an aircraft propeller to be both interesting and confusing. If anyone can find any information about this statue, please let us know.

 The National Theatre is right downtown as well, with an easy opportunity to poke your nose inside and have a look around. Started in 1891, it took 7 years to complete, and adds a touch of European style to the area. All of these buildings are conveniently located in the downtown core and you can easily see them all in a single walk.