Bicentennial of Nicoya’s Annexation to Costa Rica Watch Video Our publications Here you can find our gallery of publications Discover the Ancient Treasure of Corn in the Nicoya Peninsula! Since 1959, the majestic Guanacaste tree has been standing tall as our national tree. Talk about branching out in style! Discover the legend of Nicoa, the mighty 16th-century Chorotega chief whose name lives on in the majestic colonial city of Nicoya. Did you know? Since 1996, the marimba has been our official national instrument. Talk about hitting all the right notes! From childhood, our traditional attire is worn with pride. Colorful skirts swirl, 'caites' tap rhythmically, and braids dance to the 'güipipía'.