Ox Cart Parade (buey carretta)

DOUBLE CLICK ON PICTURE TO MAKE IT LARGER

We went to the annual Oxcart Parade today in San Jose! Here is some information about the Oxcarts. The Oxcart was designated National Labor Symbol in 1988. The Oxcart is a rustic strong vehicle with two compact wheels moved by oxen. The oxcart integrated Costa Rica into international commerce by becoming the main means of export transportation after 1840. The first shipment of coffee to London was transported from the coffee plantations to Costa Rica's main ports by oxcart in 1843. Painting oxcarts developed into a form of original Costa Rican art in the early 20th century. It was decided to add life to oxcarts by handpainting them with bright colors and geometrical figures. There are never two oxcarts painted the same. All of them contain changes in color tones and figures. This art has been passed from generation to generation up to the present time. Oxcarts portray the peaceful tradition of Costa Rica and the arduous and fervent labor of its people. They are perceived as a window to Costa Rica's optimistic vision of life, humility, patience, sacrafice, and endurance to pursue goals in a pacific and progressive manner.