Marimba, National Symbol of Costa Rica Culture and Tradition

Marimba, Costa Rica National Symbol

This historic and popular musical instrument is an emblem that represents and dignified art and culture of the people of Costa Rica, a peaceful country, which has prevailed since the annexation of Guanacaste to Costa Rica.

As the story goes, the Marimba, which has been around for centuries in Mesoamerica, came to this country from Guatemala in the late XVIII century, during colonial times, believed that through the Franciscans, it was disseminated on the region of Guanacaste and the Central Valley. Through it, Costa Rican people can identify as members of a community or town, such as Guanacaste, which represents an authentic folklore.

The interest to declare the Marimba as a national symbol, stems from the fact that it was gradually displaced, devalued and even despised, to even be in danger of disappearing, in the presence of new and modern musical instruments, which occurred during the government of Jose Maria Figueres Olsen, on September 3rd, 1996, by Decree No. 25114-C published in La Gaceta No. 167, which states the Marimba as national musical instrument, and is considered a symbol of culture and tradition.

The Marimba has been linked historically to the whole social and cultural task of Costa Rica, so it is in religious activities and folk festivals, especially accompanying folk dances, giving boost to the show.