COSTA RICA
NACIONAL THEATER
[Av.2/calle 3-5]. It`s situated in the south-west corner of the Culture Square. Its building was initiated at the end of XIX century by coffee barons, who agreed for special tax from each coffee bag. It was because the world famous prima donna Adelina Patti during her tournee through Central America, overlooked Costa Rica due to the lack of proper place for performing. The building was designed by architects from Italy, Spain and France. It was built from steel frames protecting it against the earthquakes. Finally, the building was ended up in 1897. In 1965 it was declared the national monument. In 1991 the renovation of that was carried out.
It`s made of sandstone and is a scaled-down of Paris opera. It`s accentuated by arched windows and columned facade (the columns are made from marble brought from Italy). The entrance to the theater is flanked by figures of Bethoven and Spanish dramatist Calderon de la Barca. Three other figures symbolizing of Music, Art and Literature, are put on triangular top. The whole is covered by domed roof. The interior is destinguished by sumptuous hall, marble steps, golden and bronze finishes, tropical woods, crystallic chandeliars, mirrors and picture. On the ceiling, there is a fresco featuring the banana loading for boat, painted by Arturo Fontana. On the second level is a ceiling painting by Italian artists Aleandro Villa, entitled Alegoria. In the theater rooms, there is a cafe Ruisenor offering coffee, sandwiches and cakes.
SAN JOSE
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