Sarchi is known as the cultural capital of the world

Sarchi is the cultural capital of the world. The oxen cart has contributed to that phenomenon. The cart has a long rich history. It has been around as far back as the1800’s. It is a folk lore and has a long tradition. The tradition of cart painting has passed from generations in Costa Rica. The custom began in Sarchi. That knowledge has made Sarchi into the cultural capital of the world.

I was traveling from Arenal to San Jose. The guide decided to make a stop in Sarchi. My last stop on an exciting, fun filled adventure to Costa Rica. I was happy on entering the town. Although I learnt a lot about the town from our tour guide. I admired the beauty of the small shops and stands decorating the streets. The town has exceptional gifts and souvenirs.

Oxen Cart History

My first stop was at an oxen cart factory. We did a tour of the facilities. I witnessed the construction of the cart at the factory. The manager gave a presentation. We got an explanation and history of the cart. I got the opportunity to the witness the construction of the cart. The artist work intrigued me. The intricate design was a tedious task of painting every detail. The colorful cart is a big city attraction. In fact, the cart is the national symbol of Costa Rica.

The ox cart has two or four wheels. An ox pulls the cart. In an earlier blog. I explained how the first settlers arrived in Monteverde. The Mormon used the oxen cart as transportation from San Jose. Supplies were transferred to the dense forest of Monteverde by the oxen cart. That was the only means of transportation available at the time.

In fact, the cart was the main source of transportation for the large plantations. They used the ox cart to move coffee beans from the estate to the ports.  In addition, the cart was used to move people and goods across Costa Rica.

Sarchi Cart consrtuction

The local language is Spanish. The majority of the locals speak English. The cart is carretas in Spanish. The oxen cart in Sarchi is unique.  A distinctive design is painted on each cart. Therefore, no two carts are the same. Each design and color are different. The painted designs include flowers, animals, landscapes, linear patterns, and portraits.

In 2005 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) made the oxen cart an Intangible Cultural Heritage. In addition, it became a national labor symbol in 1988. The inhabitants of Costa Rica are proud of their achievements. The cart is on display at several shops. The largest oxen cart display can be found in the towns central park. It was built in 2006 and is the world’s largest oxen cart.

I departed from Sarchi after a short visit. I was fully aware why Sarchi was considered the cultural capital of the world.