This small museum at the end of Paseo Colón in Parque La Sabana was formerly an airport terminal. Today it houses a collection of works in all media by Costa Rica’s most celebrated artists. On display are some exceptionally beautiful pieces in a wide range of styles, demonstrating how Costa Rican artists have interpreted and imitated the major European movements over the years. In addition to the permanent collection of sculptures, paintings, and prints, there are regular temporary exhibits.
If the second floor is open during your visit, have a look at the conference room’s bas-relief walls, which chronicle the history of Costa Rica from pre-Columbian times to the present with evocative images of its people. So far, the collection is small, but it does include at least one representative work each by José Sancho, Jorge Jiménez Deredia, Max Jiménez, and Francisco Zuñiga. Moreover, the outdoor setting is lovely. One of the best features here is the sculpture garden out back. You can easily spend an hour or two at this museum — more if you take a stroll through the neighboring park.