History, Legends, Customs and Traditions of Poás Volcano, Costa Rica

Abstract

This chapter compiles known information on the history, legends and traditions regarding Laguna Caliente of Poás volcano. We describe the evolution since the first ascends in the 16th century, until the massive incurrence of touristic activities. The exciting “Legend of Rualdo” on a bird that sacrificed its sweet song to save its pretty maiden, who was going to be sacrificed to stop the fury of the volcano, is described. The “Legend of Rualdo” narrates supernatural facts and explains the formation of Laguna Caliente thanks to a pact between a bird and the powerful volcano. Moreover, the origin of the yearly tradition of climbing Poás volcano on March 19th, the day of the patron Saint of San José, is documented. Legends and traditions can be useful tools to decipher past activity of volcanoes, in this case Poás.