Overview
Legend holds that a woman found a small stone image of the Virgin, "La Negrita," on a rock in Cartago in 1635, and the church built on the site has been destroyed and rebuilt several times since. Leveled by the devastating 1910 earthquake, it was reconstructed from 1912 in an earthquake-resistant Byzantine style and elevated to Basilica status by Pope Pius XI in 1935. The crypt holds the original stone and a spring believed to be blessed, drawing a steady stream of pilgrims. Every August 2, up to two million pilgrims walk to the basilica in the national "Romería" pilgrimage. Admission is free.
Opening Hours
Daily 06:00-18:00 for the crypt; the main church may keep longer hours.
Travel Tips
The site is extremely crowded during the pilgrimage period (late July-August 2); avoid it if you prefer a calm visit. Don't miss the holy spring and discovery stone in the crypt.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to San José, Costa Rica from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Costa Rica on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to San José on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in San José with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "San José 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles
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Things to Do in San José
Poás Volcano National Park Day Trip
A day trip to Poás Volcano (2,708m), about 1.5 hours from San José. View the 1.3km-wide crater and its emerald sulfuric lake during a 20-minute window. On clear days, see both the Caribbean and Pacific. Online booking mandatory.
Central Market Food Tour
Explore the Central Market (since 1880) with a guide, sampling casado, gallo pinto, tropical fruits, and Costa Rican coffee. A deep dive into Costa Rican food culture and market life.
Barrio Escalante Foodie Walk
Stroll through Barrio Escalante, San José's 'Gastronomic Street,' hopping between Costa Rican fusion restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and craft breweries. Start at Franco Café and discover hidden gems in every alley.