Guided by historical figures from Alajuela, relive the bravery of Juan Santamaría and the cultural richness of this vibrant city through a historical tour.
Don’t miss this unique experience that will awaken your love for Costa Rica!
The story unfolds through historical figures from Alajuela, who guides the tourists through the city, and Gerónimo Segura, a Heredia soldier and veteran of the War of 1856, who appears as a time traveler who joins the tour.
The tour begins at Juan Santamaría International Airport, where Pancha Carrasco welcomes them to Alajuela. During the tour, Gerónimo joins the group, and together they visit the following places:
In Costa Rica, a monument unveiled in 1891 pays tribute to the national hero Juan Santamaría for his bravery during the Battle of Rivas in April 1856. The sculpture represents his act of setting fire to the old lodging house (El Mesón) where the enemy was entrenched.
Recognition by the people of Alajuela to shoemaker and writer Carlos Luis Fallas Sibaja. This unique passage honors writer and social critic Carlos Luis Fallas, presenting his iconic works through allegorical sculptures.
Alajuela´s Main Square: was built on land purchased in 1782. Originally used for markets and military drills, it was transformed into a park in 1890 and became the city’s central gathering place.
Founded in 1974, it safeguards Alajuela’s heritage. Located in historic buildings (a former military barracks and prison), it preserves and spreads information related to the 1856 National Campaign.
A new public space now occupies the former residence of General Tomás Guardia. This site holds historical significance: Costa Rica abolished the death penalty there in 1882, and the Chamber of Commerce recently opened its Tourism Promotion Office there in 2024.
This tour has an organic approach and aims to be interactive, with characters interacting naturally with tourists. The costumes and stage elements are designed to evoke the historical era of the events narrated, creating an immersive and educational experience for visitors.
Source: Juan Santamaría Historical Cultural Museum
Alajuela City Tour is an initiative of the Alajuela Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Agriculture, a project made possible thanks to the valuable support of its strategic partners, Aens Holding CR and the National Technical University.