Cartago Municipal Museum

★★★★★ 4.6/5 (6,863 reviews) Excellent

About This Museum

Tucked away just a short stroll north of the iconic Las Ruinas de Santiago, the Cartago Municipal Museum feels like a quiet secret waiting to be discovered. You find it along the Sendero los Tigres, a location that immediately grounds you in the city's deep history. Stepping inside is a journey through the layers of Costa Rica's former capital, where colonial-era artifacts and poignant religious sculptures tell a story far richer than any textbook. It’s a compact but powerful space that manages to feel both intimate and profoundly significant.

Collection Highlights

The collection shines a light on Cartago's spiritual and domestic past, from ornate gold-leafed altarpieces and processional statues to more humble, everyday objects from centuries past. Don't miss the fascinating historical photographs that line the walls, offering a glimpse into the city's architectural and social transformation.

Visitor Information

Since it's nestled right behind the main ruins, it's incredibly easy to combine both in a single trip. Just look for the path off Avenida 3—it’s a perfect cultural pit stop that won't take over your entire day.

Architecture & Building

Housed in a charmingly restored old house with traditional thick walls and red-roof tiles, the building itself is a lovely example of classic Cartaginese architecture, its simple facade belying the treasures within.

Contact & Location

Address: Museo Municipal de Cartago, Avenida 3, Los Ángeles, Cartago, Oriental, Cartago, 30101, Costa Rica

Phone: +506 2591 1374