Costa Rican culture is in many ways a reflection of its racial diversity. The predominant influence has long been European, which is reflected in everything from the official language – Spanish – to the architecture of the country’s churches, the Roman Catholic faith and other historic buildings. The indigenous influence is less visible, but can be found in everything from the tortillas that make part of a typical Costa Rica meal, to the handmade ceramics sold at roadside stands.

Maleku Indigenous girl

The native indigenous population of Costa Rica now number approximately 15,000 and make up 0.5% of the population, as opposed to 100% in 1502.

Few of this indigenous people have retained their language nowadays, for example the Bribri, the Boruca and the Cabecar who live in the Cordillera de Talamanca.

An important aspect of Costa Rica’s cultural legacy is their love for peace and democracy. The Ticos like to stand out that their nation is the exception in Latin America because Costa Rica has half a century without an army and one hundred years of democratic tradition.

People say the Ticos are their nation’s greatest asset, and once you’ve experienced their friendliness and spontaneity you’ll have no doubt to that regard.

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