Herdocia building, Historical venue in central San José, Costa Rica
The Herdocia building is a four-story structure at the corner of Second Street and Third Avenue with neoclassical columns and baroque window designs. The edifice combines brick and concrete materials across four symmetrical levels with a distinctive tower at its main corner.
Luis Llach Llagostera built this structure in 1945 for Carmen Herdocia Rojas, who inherited the property. The Ministry of Culture later recognized its architectural importance through a comprehensive restoration effort.
The building served as a hub for commerce and social gatherings throughout San José's development. It remains a meeting place where locals and visitors experience the character of the historic city center.
The building sits north of the Edificio Correos and is easy to locate from the city center. Visitors should view the exterior to appreciate the neoclassical details and the distinctive corner tower that defines the structure.
Two spiral staircases inside wind up to the fourth floor, showing a rare architectural solution for the time. This was the architect's only project that reached more than two stories in height.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.