Escobal, the eighth district of the canton of Atenas, is a picturesque town known for its traditional broom-making craftsmanship and its railway heritage.
History
The history of Escobal reflects its evolution from a rural settlement to a formally recognized district. Before 1911, the area was known as “Los Guácimos” and was part of the lands belonging to the agricultural company La Anita. Its current name comes from the abundance of “escobillas,” a small plant traditionally used by locals to make brooms.
For decades, Escobal was a strategic location thanks to its train station, which served as an economic engine for the transportation of people and goods until the Pacific Railroad closed in 1995. Escobal was officially established as the eighth district of the canton of Atenas on March 8, 2004.
Description and Characteristics
- Area and Location: The district covers approximately 26.5 km² and sits at an average elevation of 376 meters above sea level.
- Borders: It borders other districts of Atenas such as Jesús and Concepción, and lies near the boundaries of the Orotina canton and the Turrubares region.
- Hiking Routes: The area is popular for outdoor activities and hiking, connecting visitors with rural landscapes and mountainous areas near Monte del Aguacate.
Main Towns and Sectors
- Escobal (Centro): The district’s main center, where most community activity takes place and where the railway heritage is located.
- Guácimos: Located along Route 707, it is one of the oldest sectors; the area was originally known as “Los Guácimos” before adopting the name Escobal.
- Quebradas: Situated toward the western sector, characterized by rolling terrain and steep slopes typical of the Aguacate hills.
- Kilómetro 51: A sector whose name comes from the railway distance marker of the former Pacific train route.
- Cerrillo: One of the communities that has formed part of the district’s structure since its official creation in 2004.
Places of Interest
- Old Train Station: A functional-rationalist style building (from the 1930s–1940s) declared a historical heritage site, evoking the golden era of railway transportation in Costa Rica.
- Soda Restaurante Mi Pueblo: Located just steps from the old train station, this emblematic spot offers a rustic and historic atmosphere, serving wood-fired homemade meals and traditional Costa Rican breakfasts in a cozy setting.
- El Salto Waterfall: Located on the Concepción River, it features a waterfall of more than 50 meters in heightand a natural swimming pool popular among hikers.
- EcoVista Sheep Farm: Located in Guácimos, this farm offers an agricultural experience where visitors can learn about sheep farming in a natural environment.