1. Chapter 5 Culture: San José Spanish 2 Sra. Godsey Midfield High School

2. History There are very few archaelogical discoveries in Costa Rica. Was named by Christopher Columbus. 1502: During a brief stay, Columbus was so impressed by the gold adornment worn by the natives that he nicknamed it “Costa Rica” (rich coast)

3. Parque Nacional Chirripó Is home to the highest peak in Costa Rica, Cerro Chirripó, which is over 12, 000 feet tall. In the lower-lying areas of the park, much of the flora and fauna native to the region can be observed.

4. San Isidro de El General Is a tropical mountain valley region that leads into the city of San Isidro, which was once a pioneer settlement.

5. Cerro de la Muerte (Death Hilll) is named for the many travelers who lost their lives in the treacherous cold while attempting to cross the mountain. It is over 11,000 feet high.

6. ¿Sabías que…? Costa Rica is made up of seven provinces: San José, Heredia, Atajuela, guanacaste, Puntarenas, Limón, and Cartago. San José is the most populous, with over 2 million residents. The stretch of land that Costa Rica sits upon is called the Central American Isthmus (el istmo), which connects the two larger land masses, North and South America. The national currency of Costa Rica is called the colón, named for Christopher Columbus (Cristobal Colón).

7. COSTA RICANS Also known as Ticos. They enjoy a relatively high standard of living and greatly benefit from the country’s commerce.

8. Festejos populares Celebrated at the end of the year with rides, music, fireworks, and other attractions.

9. Las bellas artes San José is the cultural and social center of Costa Rica. Theater season runs all year, and ranges from Spanish-language performances in the city’s theaters and concert halls to English-language stage productions at the Teatro Eugene O’Neill, named after the famous American playwright.

10. Las bellas artes … Costa Ricans go to the theaters not only to appreciate local talent, but also to enjoy the talents of world-renowned artists, such as the Moscow Ballet.

11. History Link There are 3 major museums where visitors to Costa Rican can see pre-Columbian artwork and artifacts: 1. The National Museum 2. The Gold Museum 3. The Jade Museum