Visit Cartago

Cartago is a city located in the Central Valley of Costa Rica, about 25 kilometers east of San Jose. It was the country's first capital and is an important historical center with well-preserved colonial architecture. A popular tourist destination, Cartago offers a variety of attractions, including its famous Basilica de Los Angeles (Basilica of the Angels), which dates back to 1635 and is considered one of the oldest religious structures in Central America. Another major attraction is the Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu, home to Costa Rica's tallest volcano with stunning views from its summit. As for history, Cartago was founded by Spanish settlers in 1563 and served as the capital until 1823 when San Jose took over due to its strategic importance as a trade center. Today it remains an important commercial hub for local agriculture and commerce.