The Plaza de la Cultura is a landmark in San José. As I understand it, the project began in 1973 following the declaration of the National Theatre—located next door—as a National Monument. The plaza also serves as the upper part of the Central Bank of Costa Rica’s Gold and Numismatic Museum.
A few years ago, the plaza underwent a renovation. Pigeon droppings—the constant companions of the space—had covered every square meter of its formerly red-brick floor in white. The refurbishment included the renovation of the fountain at the southwest corner of the plaza. Once deep and enclosed, the fountain has now been raised to street level.
When will the fountain be operational again? It seems no one really knows; in fact, I am not even sure if it still functions after enduring countless footfalls, cigarette butts, and who knows what else. However, I recall once passing by with my camera and noticing that several children had taken over the fountain, delighting in the streams of water on a hot summer day.
This feeling of freedom, confidence, and carefree abandon can only be fully experienced in childhood, especially in a country where one is truly free to enjoy life in all its splendor.
