by Rod Hughes

Earthquakes and a late awakening of citizens to the worth of their national monuments have claimed many historic buildings in this country. This is why far fewer historic structures remain standing here than in many Latin American countries. But one worth a visit is the police commissary in Cartago.

Unfortunately, the original building, built during the administration of Chief of State Braulio Carrillo (1835-42) was nearly destroyed by the 1910 earthquake that brought down in ruins so much of the old capital. But the replacement is worth seeing, built in neo-colonial style with a low, square tower, painted white with darker detailing. It is fronted by gardens worth the visit on their own merit.

A movement is afoot now to build a new police headquarters. But instead of condemning the old structure to the wrecking crews as would have been done up until the 1970s, many would like the building converted into an ethnic museum.