Costa Rica has developed a reputation for its miles of unspoiled coastline and tremendous biodiversity, but what many people may not know is that Costa Rica is also home to an archaeological mystery that is just as fascinating as Stone Hinge.

The Costa Rica Diquis stone spheres were first discovered by the United Fruit Company in 1939 as the company was working to clear out jungle area to open its banana plantations. Experts believe that the spherical stones were constructed approximately around 800 A.D. Locally, the spheres are referred to as Las Bolas, which literally means The Balls. Research into the stones has shown that several are made from a combination of limestone, while others are constructed from sandstone.

Discovery of the Spheres
When the spheres were first discovered, workmen employed by the United Fruit Company pushed them aside with heavy equipment, thus damaging some of the balls. Once stories of possible hidden treasure began to circulate, some of the workers began to drill holes into the balls and even blew up some using dynamite. It was not until several of the balls were destroyed that local authorities stepped in.

To date, more than 300 of the stones have been found. The stones are primarily situated throughout the Diquis Delta along the Pacific South region. About 90 percent of the stones have been relocated to government buildings, parks, and museums, leaving only about 10 percent of the stones in their original locations. Many of the stones have even been relocated to the Costa Rica embassy in Washington, D.C. Some of the spheres that were dynamited have since been reassembled and have been placed on display at the National Museum of Costa Rica.

Why were the Spheres Built?
The purpose and origin of the stones remains a mystery. Due to their size, precision, and bulk, many experts believe that it simply is not possible for indigenous tribes to have created the stones, some of which weight 20 tons and are 7 feet in diameter.

According to a CNN Global Treasures report, it was once speculated that the spherical stones might have been the remains of the lost city of Atlantis or could even have been created by aliens. The report goes on to discuss the fact that six of the stones that are partially buried in the Finca 6 (Farm 6) area line up with the rising sun precisely twice a year. Due to this, scientists have developed a new theory indicating that the stones were intended to serve as a way of measuring time.

Regardless of their original purpose, it cannot be denied that the rather interesting stones have become a worldwide sensation and were even recognized as a World Heritage site in 2014. The idea of archeological tourism remains somewhat new to Costa Rica, which has developed a strong tourist trade based on ecotourism. To date, the only archaeological site that is open for tourism in Costa Rica is the national monument of Guayabo de Turrialba. At Farm 6, tourism does take place on a smaller level; however, the site is only open to visitors by appointment.

[custom_script adID=191]

Andrew Makarik

to@welovecostarica.com

Andrew Makarik is the main editor of WeLoveCostaRica, a fan of this sunny country. He is also a loving husband and a has a lovely daughter. By being a devoted family man and the biggest Costa Rica fan, he wants to make more people feel at home there. WeLoveCostaRica unites people and helps them find new home or a new travel destination. This website is a friendly community where everyone can find not only information, but also new friends and travel pals. Andrew is also passionate about IT and programming, so he himself maintains a friendly atmosphere in this cozy environment of WeLoveCostaRica.com.