Costa Rica: Between Oceans and Continents explores Costa Rica’s prehistory through remarkable artifacts from the collections of the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and other institutions, illustrating how the country, perhaps due to its geographic isolation, developed in ways distinct from much of Latin America. It also examines Costa Rica’s extraordinary biological diversity and its unique commitment to sustainability through engaging, interactive displays.

A tiny land formed by volcanoes, between two enormous continents, and between the world’s two largest oceans, Costa Rica has largely been left to create its own place and destiny in the world. Sometimes called the Switzerland of the Americas for its mountainous beauty, progressive social policies, and peaceful nature, Costa Rica today is a favored destination for tourists from around the world. Not endowed with gold and other mineral resources as originally thought by the Spaniards who dubbed it the Rich Coast, the people who have inhabited this land have forged their own unique path. We invite you to explore their story.