Stumbling Upon San Ramon

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An abundance of enchanting cities and towns are encountered while driving throughout Costa Rica.  One of the most picturesque, is the small city of San Ramon, which lies just 50 miles from San Jose’s international airport.

Located in the province of Alajuela, San Ramon is known as the “city of presidents and poets” since five different presidents in the history of Costa Rica were born in this agriculturally devoted province.

Since I knew none of this, it was only through my particular navigational skills that we ended up passing through San Ramon.  With its scenic Parque Central, Museum and Catholic Church dominating the center of town, it was hard not to want to take some time out of our journey back to San Jose and explore a bit of the city.

The most dominating feature, the impressive San Ramon Nonato Parish Church (Temple Parroquial de San Ramon) immediately grabbed my attention.  Cruising around the block, scouting safe parking options, I finally secured a safe spot next to the church.

Taking a walk around to the front of the church, I first crossed the street in order to wholly appreciate the imperious facade.  The Gothic structure’s metal frame was fabricated in Germany by Engineer Hernan Gutierrez Braun and construction was begun in 1928 with its completion almost 26 years later.  The twin towers dominate the skyline and the small clock under the crucifix advises visitors to the adjacent park of the time.

The church’s interior offers three aisles,  vaulted ceilings, vibrant stained glass windows and an assemblage of emblematic statuary.  Be sure to visit the moneybox to make an offering to one of thirty-six saints and take a walk up the center aisle to admire the intricately carved altar.

During the weekday afternoon, there were a handful of congregants, but during the weekend, especially Sunday afternoons, the church is filled to capacity.

After your tour of the church is complete, be sure to take a look at The Rancho Tipico, located immediately north of the Church.  Constructed in August 2006 for Fiesta Patronales de San Ramon, an annual local celebration, it is quite the impressive sculpture.

Though my time was limited in San Ramon, I have tucked away the memory of its simplistic beauty and affable locals for another time.  With its quaint museum, beautiful park, restaurants, shopping and natural nearby attractions, San Ramon is definitely on my list for a future visit.

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