stone spheres of the diquís
states: [costa rica]
category: cultural
year: 2014
region: Latin America and the Caribbean
latitude/longitude: 8.9113888889, -83.4775000000
unesco id: 1453
world heritage site: 1453
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The Stone Spheres of the Diquís, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Costa Rica, are a collection of over 300 pre-Columbian stone spheres crafted by the Diquís culture between 500 and 1500 AD. Ranging from a few centimeters to over two meters in diameter, these nearly perfect spheres were likely used for ceremonial or astronomical purposes, though their exact significance remains a mystery. Discovered in the 1930s, they are made from granodiorite and other local stones, showcasing the advanced skill of their creators. Today, they stand as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural heritage of Costa Rica’s ancient civilizations.