The Cartago province is right in the heart of Costa Rica, and the city of Cartago, the oldest Spanish settlement in the country, served as its first capital. The main attraction is the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, constructed in 1639 and a survivor of many earthquakes throughout the centuries. It is the home of “La Negrita,” a dark rock discovered by a peasant girl in the 18th century, and also known as the Virgin of Los Angeles, for its resemblance to Mary and Baby Jesus. Thousands of Costa Ricans visit the Virgin every August on foot with the hope of a miracle cure. This pilgrimage is known as the Romería. North of the city you’ll find the Irazu Volcano and south the Chirripó National Park. There the highest peak in Costa Rica, Cerro, challenges hiking enthusiasts with its height of 3819 meters (12,529 feet), and on a clear day, inspiring views.