From a "place of passage" to a Place of Pride: Redefining Paquera's identity through art, culture, and community.

For too long, Paquera has been known as a place you simply pass through. But if you take the time to stop and look around, you'll discover a vibrant coastal community teeming with biodiversity, wildlife, rich culture, and deep-rooted traditions. The local Youth Association, ADEJ, recognized that Paquera's true identity had been overshadowed by its reputation as "un lugar de paso"—a place of passage. Determined to reclaim their narrative, the association embarked on a journey to rediscover what makes Paquera special.

They began by reaching out to community members, asking them to share what truly represents their home. These conversations revealed a deep love for Paquera's unique character and a desire to showcase its beauty. Inspired by these insights, the Youth Association collaborated with local artists Vilma Cespedes and Pablo Cesar Guevara, who generously volunteered their time and talent to create a piece of public art that would honor Paquera's identity. The goal was to create something beautiful for the town center, something that would capture the attention of passersby and invite them to experience the true spirit of Paquera.

This mural is a vibrant tapestry of Paquera's essence. Within its design, you'll find representations of the area's rich biodiversity, including felines, a howler monkey, and the majestic scarlet macaw. The mural also celebrates Paquera's history, showcasing its indigenous roots and its long-standing traditions of fishing and agriculture, particularly the cultivation of tropical fruits like mango and papaya. A nod to Paquera's modern history will also be included with an image of the "Paquereña," the first ferry that connected Paquera to Puntarenas across the Nicoya Gulf, transporting both people and goods. And, of course, the mural wouldn't be complete without highlighting the stunning marine wildlife that makes Paquera so special, including the breathtaking bioluminescence that illuminates the waters at night 365 days a year.

The mural is not yet finished, but significant progress has been made, and the community anticipates its completion within the next few weeks. This project has truly brought the community together, with the Youth Association receiving donations from local businesses and organizations to help bring this vision to life. This project is more than just art; it's a symbol of Paquera's revitalization, a testament to its vibrant community, and an invitation to discover the magic that lies beyond the surface.

The Youth Association is looking forward to more projects that will revitalize Paquera's center, making it a vibrant and welcoming place. They hope this initiative will encourage even more community involvement in beautifying their town and creating a space that reflects the incredible natural beauty of the region.