A colonial church called Templo de San Blas in Nicoya has lived through fires, tremors and earthquakes and the community thanks God for this special place. It also thanks the Government for a quick response in the most recent restoration following an earthquake.
The temple has been closed for almost seven years. President Carlos Alvarado was at the inauguration of the fully restored structure on this very special day, the 195th anniversary of the annexation of Guanacaste.
The historic structure was greatly damaged. It became home to fleas, cats, and bats. The homeless slept in its gardens.
The investment in the restoration was in three stages. ¢167 million was spent in 2015, ¢157 million in 2016, and ¢345 million this year.
The structure is now safe and ready for use. Many original features were restored, such as the flooring. Certain decorative elements were also rehabilitated. The walls were fixed using a beautiful ancient technique.
It was reopened with lighting in the design of the flag of Guanacaste and the flag of Costa Rica.
