The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, located in Cartago City, is one of Costa
Rica’s most important religious and architectural landmarks. This grand basilica honors La
Negrita, the country’s patron saint, and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year.
With its
stunning Byzantine-style domes, intricate stained glass, and peaceful courtyard, the
basilica offers visitors a glimpse into Costa Rica’s deep cultural and spiritual heritage.
- Admire the basilica’s architecture 🏰 blending Byzantine ✨ and colonial styles 🏛️👀
- Visit the shrine 🙏 of La Negrita 🖤, Costa Rica’s patron saint 🇨🇷🕊️
- Walk through the peaceful gardens 🌳 and fountain area ⛲😌🌿
- Explore the small museum 🖼️ displaying religious artifacts 🏺 and history 📜💡
- Join the annual pilgrimage 🚶♀️ (Romería) held each August 2nd 📅🙏🎉
- From San José 🏙️: About 1 hour ⏱️ by car 🚗 or train 🚂 via Route 2 toward Cartago 🗺️💨
- By Train 🚉: Regular trains 🚆 run between San José and Cartago 🏘️, with a short walk 🚶 from the station 🛤️ to the basilica ⛪
- By Bus 🚌: Buses depart frequently 🔄 from San José’s downtown terminals 🚏 to Cartago 🚌👍
- Dress modestly 👗 out of respect 🙏 for the religious site ⛪ respectful 😌
- Visit early in the morning 🌅 to avoid crowds 🚫👥🤫
- Photography is allowed 📸, but avoid flash 💡 inside the church ⛪🚫
- Combine your visit 🤝 with a stop at Cartago’s local markets 🛒 nearby 🛍️🍎
- Be respectful 🕊️ during religious ceremonies 🙏 or mass 🕯️⛪
- 8:30 AM – Arrive 🧭 at the basilica ⛪ and explore its architecture 🏰👀
- 9:30 AM – Visit the shrine 🙏 of La Negrita 🖤 and light a candle 🕯️✨
- 10:00 AM – Walk around the gardens 🌳 and take photos 📸 of the domes 🕌🖼️
- 11:00 AM – Enjoy coffee ☕ or breakfast 🥐 in nearby Cartago cafés 😋🍽️
