The Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría (SJO), located near Alajuela, serves as Costa Ricas primary international gateway. Originally named Aeropuerto Internacional el Coco after its location, construction began in 1952 and the airport was officially inaugurated in 1958. It replaced the previous airport in downtown San José, where Parque La Sabana is now situated. By the way: the former airport buildings now host the Museo de Arte Costarricarense, a museum well worth visiting.
The airport was renamed in 1971 to honor Juan Santamaría, Costa Rica‘s national hero. Santamaría was a young drummer boy who is said to have played a crucial role in the Battle of Rivas in 1856, defending his country against invading forces led by American filibuster William Walker. Santamaría sacrificed his life by setting fire to a strategic building occupied by Walker’s troops, turning the tide of the battle in favor of Costa Rica. A story that is actually doubted by historical accounts.
Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamaría
Alajuela / San José
Costa Rica
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