The district of Nicoya reeks with history; from the archeological digs of the ancient Chorotega Indian culture to the remnants of the Spanish Conquest. Historians suggest that the original Chorotega Indians populated the Nicoya Peninsula for thousands of years. At one point, their population reached around 20,000 in number in two major sites not far from Nicoya. They traded up and down the land connections between North America and South America. Many artifacts (gold, jade, pottery,stone carvings, etc.) from this amazing civilisation can still be seen in the local museums and sites. For example, the large round stone ball seen in the following photo is only one instance of a form of art practised by the ancients of the region. This photo was taken on the main road just outside the Liberia Airport. These round spheres can be found in archeological sites all up and down Central America.
 

With the arrival of the Spaniards in search of gold, Central and South America culture changed forever. Again, many artifacts from this period can be seen. The old church in Nicoya is an outstanding relic from the past. This church is currently undergoing a major renovation. The Banco National de Costa Rica in Nicoya also boasts a fine collection of carved wooden religious figures dating back to the Spanish arrival. Naturally, the Spanish language and place names remain evident today.
 

The Nosara region is dotted with historical sites as well. One of the huge trees in the area remains a reference point for location information. Local inhabitants will tell you where they live in relationship to the location of the big tree or they will arrange to meet at the big tree at a certain time.

In the early 1970's a developer acquired all of the property along the Playa Guiones coastline. The subdivision was surveyed into approximately 500 residential lots with some commercial sites sprinkled through the design. Most of the lots were about 1/3 to 1/2 an acre in size. Plans included an 18-hole golf course winding through the subdivision. Roads were built and the services were installed (hydro, phones, water).
 

Unfortunately, the developer was unable to secure the necessary capital to complete the project. Individual investors acquired the various sites, a community association was formed and the area became popularly known as "The Project" (or Bocas de Nosara). Many of the original families still live year-round in the subdivision and can regale you with many tales of the early days. Today about 15% of the lots have permanent dwellings established. The golf course area was purchased by the Community Association and converted to a wildlife preserve inside the Project.
 

Today, the Community Association manages the project through the assessment of modest annual dues. With a combination of volunteers and professional managers, Nosara Community Association operates one of the finest facilities that can be found. An elected Board of Directors guides the evolution of the project. Our roads are maintained, the beach is managed, the water is regularly tested and monitored, security, government relations and much more.

Click Here to read "The Legend of Nosara", the story of how our area got its name.

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