Juan Santamaría

Costa Rican soldier

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July 13, 2026

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Juan Santamaría was a young drummer boy celebrated for his bravery in Costa Rican history. He is honored on Juan Santamaría Day, April 11th. According to tradition, during the Second Battle of Rivas on April 11, 1856, Santamaría set fire to a building occupied by invading troops led by William Walker. This act is credited with helping to decide the battle's outcome, though Santamaría tragically died in the process. While some historical accounts question the exact details of this narrative, Santamaría remains a significant national hero in Costa Rica.1

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It was the home of Juan Santamaría, a Costa Rican soldier and hero of the defense against the invasion by the American filibuster (military adventurer) William Walker in 1856. The local Cultural Historical Museum is named in Santamaría’s honour, as is the country’s principal airport, which is located 2 miles…
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It was the home of Juan Santamaría, a Costa Rican soldier and hero of the defense against the invasion by the American filibuster (military adventurer) William Walker in 1856. The local Cultural Historical Museum is named in Santamaría’s honour, as is the country’s principal airport, which is located 2 miles…
Read More