Alajuela - Juan Santamaría Museum

(Local Name: Museo Juan Santamaría) This museum commemorates Costa Rica's national hero, Juan Santamaría. He gave his life defending the country against a small army led by William Walker, a U.S. citizen who invaded Costa Rica with intentions of creating a slave state in 1856.

The museum contains historical artifacts, paintings and maps pertaining to the war with Walker. Within the museum is a small auditorium where occasional performances are staged.