Photo by Katherine Castro
Many of those who spend some time in San Joaquín de Flores square, in Heredia, love taking pictures to a beautiful tree and then upload them to their Facebook profiles.
But there is much more at this canton: San Joaquin de las Flores also has stories, customs and traditions that can attract to any visitor.
With a 7,200-inhabitant population, this popular district was founded around 1777 and although it was originally called Quebrada Seca, the origin of its current name also dates back to the 18th century.
San Joaquín’s main characteristic is its inhabitants’ union and their Catholic traditions. This is highlighted by parish priest Sixto Varela, who has lived in the community since 2011.
Being a small canton is a blessing: it is easier for families not only to share blood ties but a Catholic faith, which helps to keep all these traditions,
the priest informed.
The Catholic temple is also one of the most notable places in this district. It was built 150 years ago, and at first, it was an ambitious project, but it ended up uniting an entire community.
The stones to built it were brought in an oxen cart from Cartago and Puriscal. That was impressive at the time and it is surprising to see how the temple is still built after all these years,
declared the parish priest.
In addition to all these traditions, there is one tree located next to the church and there is one behind it: once a year, they win everyone’s heart thanks to their yellow, impressive, imposing color.
They are in charge of cheering up the community during February and March and they also create a yellow carpet that does not go unnoticed.
I think they are beautiful. Their yellow color is the perfect complement for our beautiful church,
said Eugenia Villalobos, a resident of the community.
Whether you are sharing a family ice cream, participating in Easter processions or enjoying Christmas lights during the windy December nights, San Joaquín is a town that has a lot of options for you.