Founded in 1705, Heredia is filled with well-preserved examples of colonial architecture. The most famous and majestic is the church of La Inmaculada Concepción, one of the oldest churches in the country. The church is located in Heredia's Central Park in the heart of the city and is surrounded by lively plazas, restaurants, and stores. The charming center of Heredia is the perfect place to people-watch, meet with friends, or chat with local Heredianos.

With several notable universities, the student population of Heredia is quite significant, and both international and local students alike bring a unique personality to the town. ISA students in Heredia enjoy many of the advantages of a big city, including excellent cafes, patisseries, ice cream parlors, vegetarian and health food, and several options for nightlife, while retaining the more relaxed pace of a smaller city.

Of course, the bustling city of San Jose is nearby and conveniently-reached using public transportation. Day or night, an affordable and quick 40-minute bus ride brings students to the capital and cultural center of Costa Rica. Museums, theater, live music, diverse cuisine, and exciting nightlife are readily available in San Jose, a vibrant and entertaining Latin American capital.

Points of Interest In and Around Heredia:

* Church of La Inmaculada Concepción: The most majestic of Heredia's numerous examples of colonial architecture, this church was constructed in 1796 and is one of the oldest in Costa Rica. The church bells were imported from Cuzco, Perú and can still be heard ringing throughout the nearby plazas.

* Parque Central (Central Park): A popular place to gather, talk, and relax, Heredia's main park is home to lush gardens, fountains, and several monuments. The Casa de Cultura is located across from the park and is a pleasant place to enjoy visiting art exhibits.

* Barva Volcano: Heredia is nestled in the foothills of the Barva Volcano, one of the few Costa Rican volcanoes that can be climbed by tourists. Located inside the nearby Braulio Carrillo National Park, students enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding lush, green hills and landscape that gives Heredia the nickname "City of Flowers".

* Cafe Britt Plantation: The Cafe Britt Roastery is located in Mercedes Norte, on the way to the village of Barva in Heredia, Costa Rica. Daily, the roastery offers an educational and entertaining one-and-a-half hour tour, which is a "stage play on a coffee farm." The tour is a must-see for coffee lovers!

* San Jose: A quick and affordable bus ride from Heredia gives students the opportunity to enjoy the bustling capital of San Jose and all of its cultural offerings. To learn more about points of interest in nearby San Jose, please visit the ISA San Jose Culture Corner.

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