These ruins are right in my backyard, but of course it took me a year-and-a-half to get there to see them. However, it was worth the wait! The remains of this old church sit in the Orosi Valley (Cartago Province) facing the Tapanti Mountains.

There were also some amazingly beautiful birds and flowers there to enjoy. The church was originally built in 1693, making it the oldest church in Costa Rica. The grounds once also contained a school and monastery. It is a lovely stop if you’re making your way around the breathtaking Orosi Valley.