An agreement between the Museo del Prado and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and an initiative of the Cultural Center of Spain, the Spanish Embassy in Costa Rica and the San Jose Municipality, will bring Costa Rican’s close to some of the artwork of the famous Museo del Prado (Spanish National Art Museum), with 60 photo reproductions to be displayed in San José’s “China Town” as of October 21, the exhibit is titled “El Museo del Prado en Chepe” (Chepe is the popular name given to San José city).

Among the most renown reproductions Costa Ricans will have the opportunity to see are: La Trinidad by El Greco, Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez , Saturno devorando a su hijo (Saturn Devouring his son) by Francisco Goya, pieces by Italian artists: Caravaggio, Boticcelli, Rafael and Tiziano. The Garden of Earthly Delights by Hieronymus Bosch and others of the level of Poussin, Rembrandt and Durero.

“People that have never had a chance to visit this museum will have the possibility of appreciating the artwork in real scale”, said Jesús M. Rodríguez-Andía, Embassador of Spain in Costa Rica, and he added “ This exhibit is a point of cultural and social convergence; the Museo del Prado is one of the most important art galleries worldwide, from Spain for the world, we are proud to share with Costa Rica one of the most recognized art collections existent today”.

“A city without art is a city without culture”, stated San Jose’s major Johnny Araya.

The artwork will have data sheets with translation into braille language and guided visits also available in Costa Rican sign language (LESCO).

This is the first time an activity of this kind takes place in Costa Rica. The open air exhibit will have strong police presence and security cameras to prevent vandalism.

Other related activities include: kids’ art workshops, conferences and forums.