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Costa Rica’s Mysterious Stone Spheres

Last updated on June 17, 2023
Stone spheres of Costa Rica

Alright folks, gather round, it’s storytime. Today, we’re digging deep (literally) into one of Costa Rica’s biggest head-scratchers. Imagine this: it’s 1940, and you stumble upon over 300 stone spheres scattered across Isla del Caño and the Disquis Delta, as if some ancient civilization had been playing marbles and left in a hurry. The spheres are near perfect, like those shiny bowling balls, but they date back to pre-Columbian times.

These enigmatic rock stars have been a hot topic amongst the archaeology nerds since their discovery, resulting in more theories than a season finale of ‘Lost.’ To seal the deal, these stone celebrities of Diquis were added to the World Heritage Sites list – their mysterious allure being a cultural magnet not only for Costa Rica but the entire globe.

Now, I get it. Sun-soaked beaches and vibrant jungles might be more alluring than a trip to the Finca 6 Museum. But, let me assure you, it’s worth trading your tan lines for a trip back in time. There’s something magical about touching these stones, feeling the warmth radiate into your hands – like a handshake with history.

The Mysterious Spheres of Costa Rica

Imagine spending a morning not just at another beach, but at an archaeological site that throws you a curveball in the form of, well, a massive ball. Not your average holiday, right? As you wander, you’ll encounter hypotheses as numerous and varied as Costa Rican coffee beans, trying to decipher why and how our ancestors crafted these spheres.

It’s like being in an episode of ‘Ancient Aliens’ but without the wild-haired guy. The spheres are sculpted from various materials, including gabbro (similar to coarse basalt), limestone, and sandstone, all polished to a mirror-like finish. Kind of like the bowling balls I mentioned, but without the finger holes.

The ultimate question here isn’t the “what” or the “how,” but the “why.” Were they ancient Costa Rican GPS systems? Members-only lounge decor for high-ranking individuals? Power symbols? Or perhaps, they were just prehistoric influencers’ idea of a viral challenge. Who knows?

These stone spheres, as majestic and enigmatic as they are, face quite a predicament. Many have been damaged, destroyed, or whisked away to serve as exotic lawn ornaments. It’s like a bizarre game of “Where’s Waldo?” but with ancient spheres.

Tips for Sphere-Seeing in Costa Rica

To catch a glimpse of these relics, head over to Finca 6, near Palmar Norte, en route to Sierpe in the Osa Peninsula. There’s a handy sign that’ll lead you onto a dirt road (perfect for adding that rugged appeal to your Instagram photos), which ends up at the museum’s parking lot. The entry fee is a cool $6 USD (they accept dollars, just in case you thought of paying in coffee beans).

The place operates from 8 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday through Sunday (low season hours might change, like my decision to become a vegan in a country that excels in barbecued meats). And hey, remember to pack sunscreen, repellent, and your curiosity. There are short trails to explore and, if you’re not fluent in archaeology, there’s always the option to hire an English-speaking guide.

And don’t skip the video and the boards at the museum. After all, you don’t want to face those stone spheres unprepared. Trust me, they’re a tough audience. Oh, and there are lockers to stash your stuff. After all, lugging around your backpack while you’re trying to bond with stone spheres can really kill the vibe.

So there you have it, folks. Costa Rica: where even the rocks are interesting. Now, go forth, and become a part of this centuries-old sphere story.