Limón

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Limón, also known as Puerto Limón, is the capital of Limón Province in Costa Rica. It is the country's main Caribbean port, and has a population of around 105,000 (including many neighboring small cities). The city, and the province in general, is home to most of Costa Rica's citizens of African descent. Originally from Jamaica, these workers were brought to the area in the late 19th century to build the railroad line from San José to Limón. The rail line boosted the country's banana exports and economy in general. By the time the line was closed, the city was the country's primary harbor.

Limón is also home to speakers of Mekatelyu, a creole of English.

[edit] Celebrations

Limón is famous in Costa Rica for its yearly fall festival, which occurs the week of October 12, the date Columbus first weighed anchor off Limón's coast in 1502. This festival draws tourists from across the country as well as from abroad, as well as a wide variety of merchants who sell everything from necklaces to doormats.

Coordinates: 9°59′N, 83°02′W