Overview:

The National Theater of Costa Rica, known in Spanish as El Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica is one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in San José and a renowned cultural landmark in Costa Rica. Located in the heart of San José, the theater opened in 1897 after construction started in 1889. It has since become the nation’s premier performing arts venue as it hosts professional productions in a variety of fields, including theater, opera, ballet, classical, musicals, comedy, dance, concerts, conferences, and symposiums. The building has been declared a National Monument since 1978 due to its historical and architectural significance, as it is a unique example of late 19th-century eclectic architecture combining Neo-Renaissance, Neoclassical, and Beaux Arts styles. The theater is home to four companies: the National Symphonic Orchestra, the National Opera, the National Theater Company, and the National Ballet Company. In addition, the theater hosts productions of foreign companies, many of which come from Europe, as well as concerts by world-renowned performers. The theater also hosts its own film festival and is home to the National Museum of Costa Rican Art, the Cultural Extension Institute, and the Youth Orchestra. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Costa-Rica
Prominent Features:

• Built in 1897 by the Costa Rican Government, National Theater of Costa Rica is a historical landmark. • The building is located in the heart of San José and it houses one of the best and largest theaters in Central America. • Constructed in the Italian Renaissance style, the theater offers a unique architectural experience. • The theater boasts of extremely detailed indoor mural decorations, 16 Italian balconies and a neo–baroque lobby. • The theater frequently stages over 400 shows ranging from opera performances by leading artists to children's shows. • It is a popular tourist attraction and a popular venue for hosting corporate events and other private functions. This national monument of Costa-Rica portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The National Theatre of Costa Rica (Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica), inaugurated on October 21, 1897, is the most representative and emblematic building of San Jose's cultural heritage, as well as one of the most visited tourist sites in the country. The theatre symbolizes the democratization of art and the deepening of national and cultural identity. The construction of the building started in 1890 and was completed in eight years. It was built thanks to the contributions of the Costa Rican people through the lottery being held at the time. From the first planning, the National Theatre was the architectural expression of the growth of the Costa Rican middle class, who sought to acculturate itself to the social and cultural standards of other countries in the region. The eclectic style was the chosen for the theatre, which combines gothic and neoclassical architecture made with materials from Europe, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Inside, the main stage stands out, with a possibility to accommodate up to 1,500 people. Since its opening, the National Theatre has remained a place where opera, theatre and dance groups perform with their shows. Its concerts, expositions and conferences have made it a venue where the culture and art of the country is celebrated. In addition, it offers guided tours so that people can get to know the building and its most interesting aspects. You must visit one of these historical places in Costa-Rica on your Costa-Rica tour

Interesting facts:

1. It was founded in 1897 and was originally named Teatro República. 2. The theater was declared a Historic National Monument in 1975. 3. It is one of the oldest theatres of Latin America. 4. It has hosted some of the most famous productions of the region, from classical dramas to animated concerts. 5. The building of the theatre was completely restored in 2007 using its original design and materials. 6. Nearly every president of Costa Rica has been present at the theater for some kind of event. 7. The theater is also home to the National Symphony Orchestra of Costa Rica. 8. It is located in the National Park, near the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design. 9. The theater is home to four galleries and five halls. 10. The San Jose City Ballet and Opera Company also use the theater for rehearsals and performances. Visit one of the famous monuments of Costa-Rica with your friends and family.