The Stone Spheres of Costa Rica
Described as “the happiest country on earth,” the small Central American country of Costa Rica has claimed its place among the most highly revered vacation destinations in the world. And, rightfully so. From snorkeling off the beaches of Tortuga to wildlife watching in the jungles to exploring the slopes of volcanoes, and much more, Costa Rica would appear to have something for everyone. With such abundant activities, it is no wonder that people often forget about the area’s rich history that dates back thousands of years. One of these lesser-known treasures is the “stone spheres of Costa Rica.”
The first mysterious stone spheres were discovered almost a century ago in the 1930s as the United Fruit Company cleared the jungle with the intent of replacing it with banana orchards. Some of the spheres were damaged by clearing crews; however, when the objects were identified as potentially having great significance, greater care was given to their identification and handling.
Many origin theories have arisen over the years, none of which have been supported by solid evidence. For example, some believe the stones were linked to astronomical events, while others believe the spheres were used as burial or property markers. Of all the theories, though, the most exciting, yet illusory, is that the stones are somehow connected to the famed lost city of Atlantis.
Basing their theories on uncovered clues, though, archaeologists have linked the spheres to the pre-Columbian Diquis culture, which thrived from AD 700 to 1530. Artisans of that period were known for fine, elaborate craftsmanship including artifacts of gold, bone, and ceramic, as well as stone spheres. It is believed that the spheres were shaped into crude balls using harder stones. Then, to finish the process, the rough orbs were polished to a smoother finish using sand.
Despite the clues linking the spheres to the Diquis culture, a solid theory for their purpose still alludes everyone, even the locals. Over 300 stones have been found throughout the area, but no pattern or reason has been established for their use. This is not surprising, however; mysterious, ancient stone objects are not a rare find in the world we live in. From Stonehenge to Japan’s Yonaguni Jima to Lake Michigan’s underwater megalith structure, and more, ancient peoples’ creations continue to baffle modern man. More questions than answers surround these enigmatic objects. Yet, that is part of the palpable allure that these spheres incite—the allure of pure mystery.