Overview
The Jade Museum (Museo del Jade), opened in a striking new building in 2014, showcases the world's largest collection of pre-Columbian jade. More than 7,000 jade pieces, along with gold and ceramics, illuminate the sophisticated culture of Costa Rica's indigenous peoples. The five-story building, designed to resemble a giant jade box, walks visitors chronologically from prehistory through the Spanish conquest. Bird- and animal-shaped jade pendants stand out for their exquisite craftsmanship.
Opening Hours
Daily 08:00-17:00.
Travel Tips
Easy to combine with the nearby National Museum. The 5th-floor viewpoint overlooks San José. English signage is excellent throughout.
Hotels near Jade Museum (Museo del Jade)
Hotels and guesthouses in San José, Centro, San José
Other attractions in San José
National Museum of Costa Rica
A museum housed in a former fortress, with pre-Columbian stone spheres and a butterfly garden.
Mercado Central (Central Market)
A traditional market open since 1880, offering local food and souvenirs in one place.
National Theatre of Costa Rica
An 1897 European-style theatre - an architectural gem and a national cultural symbol.
Poás Volcano National Park
One of the world's largest active volcano craters, with a stunning emerald crater lake.
Barrio Escalante
San José's culinary hub — a hip neighborhood packed with Costa Rican fusion restaurants and cafes.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
An underground museum with 1,600 exquisite gold artifacts from Costa Rica's indigenous peoples.
Irazú Volcano
Costa Rica's highest active volcano (3,432m), with a mystical green crater lake.