Costa Rica's History

History: Costa Rica was visited by Christopher Columbus in September, 1502, on his fourth voyage to the Americas. He claimed the region for himself and his descendants, believing that the land was filled with vast deposits of precious metals.

Gold Seekers on their way over the Cordilleras

Costa Rica never yielded much gold or silver, but its natural beauty and perfect climate are finally producing some of the richness Columbus had hoped for.

The colonial period lasted from 1502-1821. On September 15, 1821, Costa Rica declared its independence from Spain, forming part of the Central American Federation. In 1848, Costa Rica proclaimed itself a free and independent Republic.