Founded in 1991, the Museo Histórico Dr. Rafael Angel Calderon is in honor of the social, economic and political reformer who served as president from 1940 to 1944.

Rafael Angel Calderón Guardia was one of the first Central American Presidents to focus on poverty and the deterioration of society during his time as president of Costa Rica. He had several social reforms that brought light to problems among the underprivileged members of Costa Rican society. He instituted reforms such as the minimum wage law, social security, the pragmatic land law and he established the University of Costa Rica among many other acts while he was president.

The Museo Calderón Guardia is an extension of the Ministry of Culture and Youth, and it is housed in an 800 square meter French adobe house. There are four exhibition halls, a library, a 90 seat auditorium and a permanent gallery. The Manuel de la Cruz Gonzalez Gallery displays different visual arts that consist of etchings, paintings, sculptures, photography, installations and more. The Library of Enrique Saenz Guier specializes in Social Reforms and documents pivotal events in the history of Costa Rica.

Services at the Historical Museum of Dr. Rafael Angel Calderon include guided tours, lectures, video projections, handouts and other educational opportunities. The guided tours last around two hours and thirty minutes in order to cover the entire property with its four exhibition halls, library and auditorium, so be sure that you have enough free time to see it all. The lectures and educational presentations are mostly done in the auditorium.

The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9 in the morning until 5 in the afternoon. It is free of charge, but you may want to call ahead if you wish to make a tour of the facilities. There is parking for thirty vehicles.

Location: Barrio Escalante, San Jose, Costa Rica
Hours: 9:00am-5:00pm Mon-Sat
Price: Free
Galleries: National and International Permanent Art Installments, Social Reforms Library
Phone: 2222 225 63-92 and 12-18