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National Theater (Teatro Nacional)


TripAdvisor Traveler Rating: 4.0 of 5 stars
TripAdvisor Popularity Index: #9 of 40 attractions in San Jose
Traveler Description: Since 1897, this elegant theater has been a source of pride.
Familiar with National Theater (Teatro Nacional)? Write your own description and share what you know with other travelers.
Attraction type: Historic site, Theater
Address: Second Ave. and Fifth St. San Jose
Costa Rica
Tel: 506-221-1329

Traveler Reviews

[ Date ] [ Rating ]
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5 of 5 stars
satorigal 22 contributions
Marion, North Carolina
Feb 18, 2008
2/2 found this review helpful

The National Theater, or Teatro Nacional, was built between 1890 and 1897. Coffee growers of the region assessed a five percent duty on their production to begin construction; however, they backed out of the deal after two years when very little had been accomplished. The government stepped in, deciding to tax all exports so they could finish the job. The... more

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4 of 5 stars
Laur54London 12 contributions
London
Feb 5, 2008
1/1 found this review helpful

Although you can pay $5 to go on a tour of the theatre, we did not have time for this so just stopped for a coffee in the lovely cafe in the theatre. I think the cafe is virtually unchanged since the theatre opened, and is very grand, with painted ceilings and old photos on all the walls. You also... more

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3 of 5 stars
michcoop80 52 contributions
denver
Dec 15, 2005
4/8 found this review helpful

This place isn't any theater to boast about. In fact, there really isn't much inside at all. It is probably the best place for a cup of coffee in the entire country. If you're looking for a peaceful afternoon, sit right outside the theater where you can people watch at the busy plaza. more

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4 of 5 stars
A TripAdvisor Member
New York, NY
Apr 7, 2005
12/13 found this review helpful

San Jose boasts a world class symphony orchestra, Orquesta Sinfonica Nacional de Costa Rica, performing in the small but splendid Teatro Nacional. The intimate and ornate opera house was built in 1897 in response to a famous prima donna who refused to perform if a proper music hall wasn't built. The Orquesta does not advertise much. The best way to... more

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National Theater (Teatro Nacional) Address

Second Ave. and Fifth St., San Jose, Costa Rica
Tel: 506-221-1329