The Park of Grecia, Costa Rica
The Central Park of Grecia is the favorite meeting point of the city’s population of the same name. To the north is the famous “Metal Church”. To the east is the Municipality of Grecia. Then we have the south and west, there are several businesses, most of them being restaurants.
We want to talk because this park has plenty of reasons that justify a visit from tourists in the area.
The Park
Typical of a park in Costa Rica, are the benches for passersby to rest, chat and enjoy the day under the shade of a tree. What is not so common is the water fountain, which is present in Grecia’s Central Park.
There is a very simple but effective kiosk near the center of the park that is used for concerts of popular and classical music.v
When there are no concerts it is normal to find young people skating. In Costa Rica, it is normal to create spaces for skaters because these activities keep them away from drugs and vices.
Between the church and the park there is a boulevard that is used by many to practice ball sports such as soccer.
Some sculptures here and there, among the typical busts of important people in the city and other postmodernist ones.
There is a playground for boys and girls, with slides, see-saws and swings.
The lighting in the park is adequate so as not to leave spaces too dark at night. This plus the patrolling of the municipal police makes Grecia Park very safe.
The Metal Church
Also known as “El Templo Metálico” (The Metallic Temple), this is the colloquial name for the Church of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes. Located to the north of the park, this church was built after a series of earthquakes destroyed previous temples.
We have an article here which talks more in detail about the history of this church here.
This chuch has a small grotto at the back and beautiful gardens with religious sculptures that invite you to take a short walk.
The stairs to the entrance are used by some passers-by to rest and have a full view of the park.
The surroundings of Grecia Park
On the sides of the park there is a wide range of businesses dedicated to food. From fast food, ice cream parlors to gourmet food.
Let’s start with the well-known transnational chains, such as Papa Johns, KFC and Subway, with locations just a few steps from the park.
We have the Barriles Restaurant next to Subway, with a gourmet style gastronomic offer and specialized dishes.
Pops ice cream parlor, famous in Costa Rica, has a location on the south side of the park.
And we finish with Los Pira, the most famous taqueria in Grecia. Los Pira is also very famous in the Central Valley, making it a must for many visitors to the city. This business has been operating for more than half a century.
Very soon we will be talking more about the gastronomic universe of the city of Grecia and its multiple options. Stay tuned.
The Urban Park of Grecia is for everyone
Whether you want to read a book, surf the internet while sitting outdoors, share with the kids or with your partner, learn more about Costa Rican idiosyncrasy or relax after a meal at a local restaurant, no matter the reason or age, this park is a safe place for everyone.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the park when you’re staying with us in Serenity. We are five minutes away from Grecia and 10 minutes from Alajuela.
This article was written by a human being. This work is the product of several visits to the area and to the city of Grecia, Costa Rica.
