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The Artifact: Costa Rica’s Stone Spheres
Apr 23, 2025
Dive into the mystery of Costa Rica's ancient stone spheres, crafted by the Dicas people between 700 and 1530 CE. Discovered by the United Fruit Company in the 1930s, these spherical wonders have sparked intrigue and debate. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, their purpose and significance remain a captivating puzzle. What secrets do these stones hold about the culture and history of the region?
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Quick takeaways
- The stone spheres of Costa Rica, crafted by the Dicas people, highlight impressive artistry and social significance in pre-Columbian culture.
- Despite their historical importance, the spheres were overlooked by Spanish invaders, leading to their rediscovery and current status as iconic artifacts.
Deep dives
Discovery of the Stone Spheres
In the 1930s, the United Fruit Company discovered large stone spheres while clearing land for banana crops in Costa Rica. These petrospheres, ranging from 6 inches to 8 feet in diameter and weighing up to 15 tons, were created by the Dicas people, who lived in the region from approximately 700 to 1530 CE. Despite their significance, the Spanish invaders of the 16th century failed to mention the spheres, leading to their obscurity for centuries. Rediscovered later, these artifacts have since become iconic representations of pre-Columbian Costa Rica and are housed in museums, including the National Museum of Costa Rica.
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