Religion in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a land where religious diversity flourishes against the backdrop of its natural beauty. With a blend of Catholicism, Protestantism, and indigenous beliefs, the country embraces a rich tapestry of faith that reflects its cultural vibrancy.

The religious narrative of Costa Rica is intricately woven into its colonial heritage. With the arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century, Catholicism took root on the shores of Costa Rica. Through evangelization efforts targeted at the indigenous population, Catholicism became the state religion, marking the initiation of its predominant role in the country's religious landscape.

The predominant religious landscape in Costa Rica is characterized by Catholicism, constituting 47% of the population. Following closely are Evangelical Christians at 19%, and Protestants at 1.2%. Together, these three faiths represent the leading religious affiliations in the country.

The predominant religious affiliation in Costa Rica is Roman Catholicism.

Costa Rica designates Catholicism as its official religion, a unique status on the American continent. The incorporation of Catholic teachings as a mandatory subject in schools underscores the significant role of religion in Costa Rican culture. This influence extends beyond formal education, permeating the language, holidays, and traditions, where the term "Christian," or Cristiano, is interchangeably used to denote a "human being," emphasizing the deep intertwining of faith with the fabric of daily life.

Costa Ricans take pride in their religious tolerance, with widespread support for ecumenism. The constitution ensures freedom of religion for all faiths. Various Protestant denominations boast substantial memberships, and while there's a spectrum of beliefs and practices among Catholics, their religion significantly influences Tico culture. Some individuals deeply commit to the church, while others express a simpler faith in God. The concept of the "will of God" serves as a guiding principle. The veneration of saints as intermediaries between supplicants and God is a notable aspect of Costa Rican Catholicism, with villages and towns often named after saints. Major celebrations are held for each patron saint, and pilgrimages to sanctuaries dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Christ on the cross are significant events. Religious education is compulsory in public schools. Women are generally considered more devout than men. A minority holds beliefs in the efficacy of witchcraft for matters related to love, illness, and misfortune. While practitioners may face legal consequences as witchcraft is prohibited by law, the country exhibits diverse degrees of belief and practice in both established religion and folk traditions.

While the Costa Rican Constitution designates Catholicism as the state religion, it simultaneously guarantees religious freedom for all.