Cartago Province

Cartago Province is one of the seven provinces of Costa Rica, located in the central part of the country. It is bordered by the provinces of Limon to the east, San Jose to the west, and Heredia and Limon to the north. The provincial capital is the city of Cartago, which was also the first capital of Costa Rica.

History

Cartago Province has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. The region was originally inhabited by the Huetar people, who were later conquered by the Spanish Empire. The city of Cartago was founded by Juan Vasquez de Coronado in 1563 and served as the capital of Costa Rica until 1823.

Geography

The province covers an area of 3,124.61 square kilometers and is divided into eight cantons, which are further subdivided into districts. The province is known for its diverse geography, which includes the Irazu Volcano, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, and the Tapanti National Park, one of the most important protected areas in the country.

Economy

The economy of Cartago Province is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, industry, and services. The province is known for its production of coffee, sugar cane, and potatoes. It is also home to several industrial parks and free trade zones, which host companies in sectors such as electronics, textiles, and medical devices.

Culture

Cartago Province is known for its rich cultural heritage. The province is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels, one of the most important religious sites in Costa Rica. The province also hosts the annual Romeria, a pilgrimage to the Basilica that attracts hundreds of thousands of people from across the country.

See also

• Provinces of Costa Rica
• Cantons of Costa Rica
• Districts of Costa Rica