The South Pacific of Costa Rica was once inhabited and ruled by indigenous tribes.  A hour's drive from the house is Boruca Indian village, one of the few remaining in Costa Rica.

Inspired by the knowledge of centuries of old tradition, they represent their inherent creative expression through masks carved in balsa wood, and painted with vibrant colors and the weaving of colorful textiles. The threads for the material are generally dyed with leaves, roots and extracts from sea shells.  The tribe now supports itself on the sale of these colorful masks and handicrafts.  You will find examples throughout Villa Paraiso.

The masks are important elements in the annual Diablitos Dance celebrated in Boruca y Curré. The dance represents the resistance of the “Diablitos”, representing the Boruca people, against the Spanish conquistadors.