The stone spheres of Costa Rica, also known as the Diquís Spheres, are a collection of over 300 petrospheres found primarily in the Diquís Delta region of Costa Rica. These mysterious artifacts are attributed to the extinct Diquís culture and are considered the best-known stone sculptures of the Isthmo-Colombian area.
The spheres, unlike the naturally formed Moeraki Boulders in New Zealand, are man-made artifacts. The stones used to create these spheres were sourced from hills several kilometers away from their final placement, indicating intentional transportation and crafting. While the exact construction methods remain a subject of study, the spheres exhibit varying degrees of finishing and precision, with many described as perfectly spherical and balanced. This level of craftsmanship, combined with their cultural context and deliberate placement, clearly distinguishes them as artificial creations rather than natural formations.
Dating back to the Aguas Buenas Period (300–800 CE) and Chiriquí Period (800–1550 CE), these spheres range in size from a few centimeters to over 2 meters in diameter, with the largest weighing up to 15 tons. They are predominantly made from gabbro, a coarse-grained equivalent of basalt, though some are crafted from shell-rich limestone and sandstone.
The spheres were discovered in the 1930s during land clearing for banana plantations by the United Fruit Company. Unfortunately, some were damaged or destroyed during this process, with workers even using dynamite in search of hidden gold.
While their exact purpose remains uncertain, archaeologists believe the spheres may have been used as decorative objects, placed in lines along the approach to the houses of chiefs. Some hypotheses suggest they could represent solar systems or various stages of the sun and moon.
The spheres are found in various locations, including the Diquís Delta, Isla del Caño, Palmar Sur, and other areas in Costa Rica. The Palmar Sur Archaeological Excavations, particularly at the Finca 6 site, have provided valuable insights into their cultural context.
In recognition of their cultural significance, the stone spheres were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. They are now considered a national symbol of Costa Rica, with some specimens on display at the National Museum of Costa Rica in San José.
