Teatro Melico Salazar (Melico Salazar Theater)
The Melico Salazar Theater is located in front of the Central Park.
Teatro Nacional (National Theater)
The National Theater, located on Avenida 2 between Calle 3 and Calle 5, was modeled after the art deco style of Paris’ Opera House. It’s decorated with Belgian ironwork, Baroque and Italian renaissance flourishes and 22.5 karat gold leaf.
As Costa Rica’s economy began to flourish in the beginning of the 20th century, San José began working with the French Opera Company to bring famous artists to Costa Rica to perform. It was soon decided that a proper structure was needed to house such cultural events and preparations for a national theater were begun.
The 1,040-seat theater can be converted to a ballroom, using a 12-man manual wench that raises the entire floor to stage level. Its vaulted ceilings are decorated with detailed paintings of mythological deities and a large 85-light chandelier. The foyer and main lobby are decorated with paintings by classic Italian artists such as Vepasiano Bignami and finished with real gold-leafed mahogany furniture. The floor was completely refurbished in 1940 using ten varieties of native Costa Rican hardwood.
Construction of the National Theater was financed through an export tax paid by coffee barons during the beginning of the 20th Century. The theater was finished in 1897 and inaugurated that same year by the French Opera Company, who were invited to help celebrate its opening.
The National Theater
Teatro Nacional Foyer
Walking to the Right of the Foyer
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The Front of the Foyer
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Foyer Rooms 
Teatro Nacional Mirrors
Mirror in the Foyer
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Teatro Nacional Side Boxes 
Orchestra Ceiling 
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