30 Curiosidades que no Sabías sobre Costa Rica | El país más seguro de Latinoamérica

Urckari

25 Sept 201711:09

Summary

TLDRDiscover 30 fascinating facts about Costa Rica, a country rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. From the significant archaeological collection at the Central Bank's museums to the unique tropical rainforest on Isla del Coco, Costa Rica offers a diverse range of natural and historical wonders. Learn about its Nobel Peace Prize-winning ex-president, Oscar Arias Sánchez, the impressive stone spheres from a sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization, and its remarkable recovery from deforestation. Costa Rica is also a regional football power, a hub for international institutions, and a leader in renewable energy, with 99% of its energy coming from renewable sources. Known as the 'Switzerland of America,' it boasts a high quality of life and a climate that defines tropical living.

Takeaways

🏛️ The Central Bank museums of Costa Rica house one of the most important archaeological collections in the country, including over 3,500 gold, ceramic, and stone objects.
🏝️ Isla del Coco is the only tropical eastern Pacific island with a tropical rainforest and was a refuge for pirates and corsairs who allegedly hid treasures there.
🏆 Former President Oscar Arias Sánchez was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his role in peace processes in Central American conflicts during the 1980s.
🗿 Costa Rica is home to giant stone spheres, a sophisticated creation of its pre-Columbian civilization, which was the only one to reach the concept of abstraction.
⚽️ Costa Rica is a regional football powerhouse, winning the CONCACAF championship eight times and being the most successful Central American team in the competition.
🌳 In the 1980s, Costa Rica faced severe deforestation, but due to environmental legislation, it now has 25% of its territory protected and 52% forest cover, the highest in the region.
🌎 Costa Rica holds 5% of the world's biodiversity within just 0.3% of the Earth's mass and has banned recreational hunting.
💧 99% of Costa Rica's energy comes from renewable sources, with 80% being hydroelectric, highlighting the country's commitment to sustainability.
🏫 Costa Rica hosts several international institutions, including the UN University for Peace, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, and the Central American Monetary Council.
🌋 The country has a high concentration of volcanoes, with 112 in total and five of them being active, including the Poás Volcano with one of the world's largest craters.

Q & A

What is one of the most important archaeological collections in Costa Rica?
-The museums of the Central Bank of Costa Rica have one of the most important archaeological collections in the country, including over 3,567 gold, ceramic, and lithic objects, as well as a small collection of ethnographic objects that belonged to indigenous groups.
Why is Isla del Coco significant in the Pacific region?
-Isla del Coco is the only tropical island in the eastern Pacific that has a tropical rainforest. It served as a refuge for pirates and corsairs for over a century, and according to legends, they hid valuable treasures there.
For what achievement did Oscar Arias Sánchez receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987?
-Oscar Arias Sánchez received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his participation in peace processes to resolve armed conflicts in Central America during the 1980s.
What do the Stone Spheres of Costa Rica signify about the pre-Columbian civilization?
-The Stone Spheres of Costa Rica, which began to be made around 600 AD, are anomalous creations that denote a sophisticated civilization of the time. They are a testament to the only pre-Columbian civilization that reached the concept of abstraction.
How has Costa Rica's football team performed in regional competitions?
-Costa Rica is a regional powerhouse in football, being the most successful Central American team in CONCACAF and the Central American Cup, having won the championship eight times out of thirteen editions.
What significant environmental change has Costa Rica undergone since the 1980s?
-In the 1980s, Costa Rica was almost destroyed by deforestation, with only 36% of its territory deforested. However, by 2000, the deforestation rate had increased to 89%. Thanks to environmental legislation, today 25% of the national territory is protected, and 52% has forest cover, making it a leader in protected territory percentage.
What percentage of Costa Rica's biodiversity is unique to the country?
-Costa Rica has an extraordinary biodiversity, holding 5% of the world's biodiversity within just 0.3% of the Earth's mass.
How does Costa Rica rank in terms of health among the nations of the world?
-Costa Rica is among the 50 healthiest nations on Earth, ranking 33rd out of 163 territories, and is the third healthiest nation in Latin America, only surpassed by Cuba and Chile.
What is the significance of the Poás Volcano in Costa Rica?
-The Poás Volcano in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range is one of the most significant because it has one of the largest craters in the world and is one of the five active volcanoes in the country.
What is the origin of the phrase 'Pura Vida' in Costa Rica?
-The phrase 'Pura Vida' is a constant expression in Costa Rica, used for greeting, indicating well-being, describing someone's quality, bidding farewell, and even for expressing gratitude. It encapsulates the essence of the country's lifestyle and philosophy.
How does Costa Rica's climate differ from other tropical regions?
-Costa Rica has a varied climate with a tropical setting and two well-defined seasons: the dry season, also known as summer, and the rainy season, also known as winter. It does not have spring or autumn seasons.
What was the economic driver of Costa Rica during the 19th and 20th centuries?
-Coffee was the main economic driver of Costa Rica during the 19th and most of the 20th century, earning it the nickname 'grano de oro' (grain of gold). Today, Costa Rica continues to compete globally to offer the best gourmet coffee.
What is the origin of the term 'Ticos' used to refer to Costa Ricans?
-The term 'Ticos' originated during the National Central American War against the filibusters when it was noticed that Costa Rican soldiers frequently used diminutives and the suffix '-tico', such as 'tico' instead of 'patito'. This usage was simplified and became the colloquial term for Costa Ricans.
Why is Costa Rica known as the 'Switzerland of America'?
-Costa Rica is known as the 'Switzerland of America' due to its small size, mountainous terrain, hosting of many institutions, high quality of life, and its politically neutral stance with its neighbors.
What is the significance of Franklin Chang Díaz to Costa Rica and space exploration?
-Franklin Chang Díaz is a Costa Rican astronaut and physicist who holds the record for the number of space shuttle flights with NASA, having made seven trips. He is dedicated to research in plasma propulsion, which is crucial for future long-distance space missions, such as reaching Mars. He also founded the Al Dia Rocket Company.
How did Costa Rica celebrate its independence from Spain?
-Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spain on September 15th. The celebration includes a torch relay called the Torch of Liberty, which starts in Guatemala and ends in Costa Rica, involving schools and institutions to commemorate the declaration of independence for Central America.
What are the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Costa Rica?
-Costa Rica has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Cordillera de Talamanca Reserve, the Amistad National Park, the Guanacaste Conservation Area, and the Pre-Columbian Chiefdom Settlements with Stone Spheres of Diquís.

Outlines

00:00

🌟 Costa Rica's Rich Cultural and Natural Wonders

Costa Rica is home to the Central Bank Museums, which boast one of the most significant archaeological collections in the country, including over 3,500 gold, ceramic, and stone objects. The Isla del Coco, with its tropical rainforest, was a haven for pirates and is rumored to hide treasures. Oscar Arias Sánchez, a former president, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his role in peace processes in Central America during the 1980s. The country also features the enigmatic stone spheres, a testament to a sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization. Costa Rica is a regional football powerhouse, having won the Central American Championship eight times. In the 1980s, the country faced severe deforestation, but strong environmental policies have since led to significant reforestation, with 25% of the land protected and 52% forested, setting a global example for change.

05:01

🏞️ Biodiversity and Renewable Energy in Costa Rica

Costa Rica, despite occupying only 0.3% of the Earth's landmass, contains 5% of the planet's biodiversity and has banned recreational hunting. The country's energy comes mostly from renewable sources, with 99% from renewables and 80% from hydroelectric power, making it a leader in sustainable energy. The Reventazón Hydroelectric Dam is Central America's largest. Costa Rica is also known as the 'Switzerland of America' due to its neutrality, high quality of life, and concentration of international institutions. It is the seat of the UN University for Peace, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, and other significant organizations. The country ranks among the healthiest nations, with a focus on ecotourism and a commitment to environmental conservation.

10:03

🌋 Volcanic Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

Costa Rica is a mountainous country with four main and four secondary mountain systems, and it is the world's leading pineapple exporter, known for the quality of its produce. The country has a peaceful history, having dissolved its army after a civil war but maintaining a strong public force with various special units for defense and security. Costa Rica's climate is tropical with defined dry and wet seasons, and it was the main economic driver in the 19th and 20th centuries through coffee production, known as 'grano de oro'. The country is one of the oldest democracies in the world and is renowned for its ecotourism, which has become a major industry. Costa Rica is also known as the 'Switzerland of America' for its neutrality and high quality of life.

🚀 Astronauts, Historical Milestones, and UNESCO Heritage Sites

Costa Rica is known for its astronaut Franklin Chang Díaz, who holds the record for the most space shuttle flights and is working on plasma propulsion for future space missions. The country was the first in Latin America to have a McDonald's and was the third city in the world, after New York and Paris, to have electric lighting. Costa Rica celebrates its independence with a unique torch relay that starts in Guatemala. The country is a popular retirement and tourism destination for expatriates, offering a tranquil and paradisiacal lifestyle. It has four UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Talamanca Range Reserve, the Cocos Island National Park, the Guanacaste Conservation Area, and the Pre-Columbian Chiefdom Settlements with Stone Spheres.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Archaeological Collection

An archaeological collection refers to a group of artifacts and objects that are significant to the study of human history and prehistory. In the context of the video, the archaeological collection at the Museos del Banco Central in Costa Rica is highlighted as one of the most important, featuring over 3,500 gold, ceramic, and stone objects. This collection is crucial for understanding the cultural heritage and ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region.

💡Island of Cocos

The Island of Cocos, or Isla del Coco, is a tropical island with a unique distinction of having a tropical rainforest in the Eastern Pacific. The video mentions its historical significance as a refuge for pirates and a legendary hiding place for treasures. This keyword is important as it showcases the natural beauty and the mysterious past of Costa Rica's territorial waters.

💡Oscar Arias Sánchez

Oscar Arias Sánchez is a prominent figure in Costa Rican history, recognized for his peace efforts in Central America during the 1980s. The video notes that he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987. This keyword is significant as it highlights Costa Rica's commitment to peace and diplomacy on the international stage.

💡Stone Spheres

Stone spheres, or 'esferas gigantes de piedra', are enigmatic artifacts that date back to 600 AD and are unique to Costa Rica. The video emphasizes their significance as indicators of a sophisticated pre-Columbian civilization that reached the concept of abstraction. These spheres are a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and culture of ancient Costa Rican societies.

💡Football

Costa Rica's prowess in football is highlighted in the video, mentioning its status as a regional power and multiple winner of the CONCACAF championship. This keyword is relevant as it reflects the national pride and the cultural importance of sports in the country, showcasing the unity and competitive spirit of the Costa Rican people.

💡Deforestation

Deforestation is a critical environmental issue discussed in the video, with Costa Rica experiencing significant forest loss in the past. However, the narrative shifts to recovery, emphasizing the country's environmental policies that have led to substantial reforestation and protection of natural habitats. This keyword is essential for understanding the ecological challenges and the commendable turnaround in environmental conservation efforts by Costa Rica.

💡Biodiversity

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular ecosystem or on the planet. The video points out that despite its small size, Costa Rica hosts 5% of the world's biodiversity. This keyword is central to the video's theme of environmental richness and the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

💡Renewable Energy

Renewable energy is a key concept in the video, with Costa Rica achieving 99% of its energy needs from renewable sources, predominantly hydroelectric. This keyword is significant as it underscores the country's focus on sustainable development and its role as a global leader in clean energy.

💡Pura Vida

Pura Vida is more than just a phrase in Costa Rica; it's a way of life that encapsulates the country's laid-back attitude and positive outlook. The video mentions its use in various contexts, from greetings to expressing well-being. This keyword is central to understanding the cultural ethos of Costa Rica and its people's approach to life.

💡Volcanoes

Costa Rica's volcanic activity is highlighted in the video, noting the presence of 112 volcanoes, five of which are active. The mention of the Volcán Poás and its significant crater emphasizes the country's geological diversity and the natural wonders it offers. This keyword is important for understanding the country's landscape and the potential for geothermal energy production.

💡Coffee

Coffee is described in the video as the 'grano de oro' that drove Costa Rica's economy in the 19th and 20th centuries. The keyword is significant as it ties to the country's agricultural heritage and its ongoing reputation for producing high-quality gourmet coffee, contributing to its global trade and economy.

Highlights

Costa Rica's Central Bank museums house one of the most important archaeological collections in the country, with over 3,567 gold, ceramic, and stone objects.

Isla del Coco is the only tropical island in the eastern Pacific with a tropical rainforest and was a refuge for pirates for over a century.

Ex-President Óscar Arias Sánchez was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his role in peace processes in Central America.

Costa Rica is known for its giant stone spheres, a sophisticated creation of its pre-Columbian civilization, unique for reaching the concept of abstraction.

Costa Rica is a regional football powerhouse, winning the CONCACAF championship eight times out of thirteen.

In the 1980s, Costa Rica faced severe deforestation, but strong environmental legislation has since led to 25% of its territory being protected and 52% forest coverage.

Costa Rica boasts 5% of the world's biodiversity within just 0.3% of the Earth's mass and has banned recreational hunting.

Costa Rica generates 99% of its energy from renewable sources, with 80% being hydroelectric, including the largest dam in Central America.

Costa Rica is home to the UN University for Peace, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, and other significant international institutions.

The country ranks among the top 50 healthiest nations globally, being the third healthiest in Latin America.

Costa Rica has 112 volcanoes, five of which are active, including the Poás Volcano with one of the world's largest craters.

Costa Rican cuisine is diverse, with traditional dishes like casado, ceviche, gallo pinto, and many others.

The phrase 'pura vida' is a way of life in Costa Rica, used for greeting, farewell, and expressing well-being.

Costa Rica is very mountainous, with most of its territory between 900 and 1800 meters above sea level, and four main mountain ranges.

Costa Rica is the world's leading pineapple exporter, known for producing the best pineapples globally.

Costa Rica has no standing army and relies on a public security force, maintaining a peaceful stance with its neighbors.

The country has a diverse climate with a well-defined dry and rainy season, lacking spring and autumn.

Coffee was the main economic driver in Costa Rica during the 19th and 20th centuries, earning it the nickname 'grano de oro'.

Costa Rica is one of the oldest democracies in the world and is considered a full democracy in Latin America.

Ecotourism is a major industry in Costa Rica, making it a top global destination for nature lovers.

Costa Rica is known as the 'Switzerland of America' due to its neutrality, high quality of life, and mountainous terrain.

Astronaut Franklin Chang Díaz is a notable Costa Rican who holds the record for the most space shuttle flights and is working on plasma propulsion for future space missions.

Costa Ricans are colloquially known as 'Ticos', a term that originated during the Central American war against filibusters.

Costa Rica was the first Latin American country to have a McDonald's and was the first country outside the USA to host one.

San José, Costa Rica, was the first capital in Latin America and the third in the world to have electric lighting.

Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spain with a unique torch relay that starts in Guatemala and ends in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is a popular retirement and tourism destination for expatriates, with many running their own businesses.

Costa Rica has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Talamanca Range, Isla del Coco, Guanacaste Conservation Area, and the Diquís Stone Spheres.