Historical Museum Dr. Rafael Angel Calderon Guardia
About This Museum
So, I stumbled upon this incredible old house tucked away in the Barrio Escalante neighborhood of San José. It turns out the whole place is a museum dedicated to a former president, Dr. Calderón Guardia, who was a seriously important figure here. Walking through the rooms, you get this intimate feel for his life and the huge social reforms he championed, like starting their healthcare system. It's not your typical stuffy museum at all—it feels personal and deeply connected to modern Costa Rica.
Collection Highlights
The main draw is the permanent exhibit on President Calderón Guardia himself, which details his legacy including the founding of the University of Costa Rica and the landmark social guarantees that still shape the country today.
Visitor Information
They offer tours if you want a deeper dive, and since it's in a cool neighborhood, you can easily pop into a cafe or restaurant nearby afterwards.
Architecture & Building
It's housed in his former family home, a beautiful and stately two-story building with a classic white facade and a welcoming interior that feels more like a grand residence than an institution.
Contact & Location
Address: 10101, Centro Carmen, Ciudad de San José, San José, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2255 1218
Website: Visit Website
