The Nicoya Colonial Church, officially known as the Church of San Blas, is the oldest standing
church in Costa Rica. Built in the 1600s, it represents the country’s deep cultural and religious
heritage. Located in the heart of Nicoya town, this beautifully preserved structure is a must-visit
for history lovers, featuring Spanish colonial architecture, whitewashed walls, and a peaceful
courtyard surrounded by centuries of tradition.
- Admire the colonial-style façade 🏛️ and bell tower 🔔✨
- Explore the church’s interior 🙏 and its wooden altar 🪵✝️
- Visit nearby historical buildings 🏰 and the Nicoya town plaza 🏘️🗺️
- Learn about Costa Rica’s 🇨🇷 earliest Catholic heritage 📜💡
- Located 📍 in Nicoya town center 🏘️ – easily accessible 🗺️ by foot 🚶 or car 🚗✅
- About 2 hours ⏱️ from Liberia 🧭 by Route 21 🛣️💨
- Public buses 🚌 available from nearby cities 🏘️ like Santa Cruz 🚌 and Nosara 👍
- Dress modestly 👗 when visiting religious sites 🙏👚
- Avoid flash photography 📸🚫 inside the church ⛪🕯️
- Combine your visit 🤝 with lunch 🍽️ at a local café ☕ nearby 😋🍹
- Visit on Sunday 🗓️ to experience local mass 🎶 and culture ✝️🎉
- 9:00 AM – Arrive 🧭 and visit the church ⛪🙏
- 10:00 AM – Stroll 🚶♀️ the town plaza 🏘️ and surrounding historical buildings 🏛️🗺️
- 11:30 AM – Enjoy coffee ☕ or lunch 🍽️ at a local café 😋👋
