Museo del Jade
About This Museum
Tucked away on Avenida Central, the Museo del Jade feels like a quiet conversation with Costa Rica's ancient past. It all started back in 1977, born from the Instituto Nacional de Seguros's own collection, which gives you a hint of how deeply valued these pieces are. You won't just find stunning green stone here; the place tells a much broader story of the people who first called this land home. Walking through, you get a real sense of the craftsmanship and spiritual life that thrived long before modern borders were drawn.
Collection Highlights
The heart of the place is, of course, the jade—gorgeous pendants carved into animal forms and human figures that were far more than just adornment. But don't miss the metates, those ceremonial grinding stones intricately sculpted with underworld creatures. One of my favorite spots is the exhibit on daily life, where you can see a simple clay vessel still stained from preparing chocolate over a thousand years ago.
Visitor Information
It's right on Central Avenue, easy to pop into while exploring downtown San José. The cool, dimly lit halls offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle, making it a perfect spot for a thoughtful afternoon.
Architecture & Building
Housed in a striking modern building that stands out with its five floors of concrete and glass blocks, designed to resemble a pre-Columbian jade stone itself.
Contact & Location
Address: Museo del Jade y la Cultura Precolombina, 0004, Avenida Central Rogelio Fernández Güell, Bella Vista, Centro Carmen, Ciudad de San José, San José, 10101, Costa Rica
Phone: +506 2521 6610
