History

The Rosario Square, located in the historic center of Bogota, has witnessed several significant historical events for Colombia. During colonial times, this place was known as the Plaza de San Francisco, where public and religious events were held. In 1810, it was the scene of important meetings during the first independence movements. Today, Plazoleta del Rosario continues to be a civic and cultural meeting place in Bogotá, with the Universidad del Rosario as an important educational and cultural center in its surroundings.

To visit Bogota is to embark on a cultural journey of unique flavors and incredible landscapes. If there is a place that brings together all these qualities is La Candelaria; located in the heart of the capital, is listed as one of the favorite areas of residents and visitors, thanks to its historical value and captivating colonial style.

The Simon Bolívar Monument is a monumental work located in the Plaza de Bolivar in Bogota, Colombia. It was designed by Italian sculptor Pietro Tenerani and was inaugurated on July 20, 1846. The equestrian statue of Bolivar is located in the center of the square, surrounded by allegorical figures representing freedom, justice, war and peace. The base of the monument is decorated with reliefs depicting important moments in Bolívar's life, such as the Battle of Boyacá and the signing of Colombia's independence.

The Archbishop's Palace of Bogota, built in the 18th century, is an outstanding example of colonial architecture. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Bogota. Its main door was sculpted by Ludovico Consorti, famous for having made the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. The door weighs three tons and was made in the old foundry workshops in Florence, Italy.

The Colegio Mayor de San Bartolomé, founded by the Jesuits in 1604, is one of the oldest educational institutions in Colombia. A project of Jesuit priest Giovanny Battista Coluccini, it is located in the historic center and its colonial architecture and historical legacy make it an important cultural heritage site. Recognized for its academic excellence, the school has trained generations of Colombian leaders in various areas of knowledge.

The Casa de Nariño is the official residence of the President of Colombia and the seat of government. Its inauguration was on July 20, 1908, by General Rafael Reyes. It was built on the grounds of the birthplace of Antonio Nariño; therefore, it bears the name of the hero of Independence. It is an example of colonial architecture.  Inside, it houses important works of art and historical furniture. It is a symbol of Colombian history and politics. It offers service to the public through guided tours.

The Palace of Justice of Bogota was built in the 1970s as the seat of the judiciary of Colombia. It is the building where the high courts of Colombia operate and its full name is the Alfonso Reyes Echandia Palace of Justice. Its modern construction contrasts with the rest of the colonial buildings around the Plaza de Bolivar.

It is the building where the Mayor's Office of Bogota is located. Its construction began in 1843, and its architectural style is influenced by the French Renaissance style and was declared a National Monument in 1984. As an act of commemoration for the 450th anniversary of the founding of the city, 24 fixed plaques were installed on the second floor of the Liévano Palace, commemorating various events that have marked the history of Bogota.

It is the most important and historic square in the city. Its construction was started by the Spaniards in 1539 and the first houses of the city were built around it. The most important historical landmark that took place there was the reception of Simón Bolívar and his army, in 1819, who arrived triumphant from the Battle of Boyacá. Currently, the Plaza de Bolivar is surrounded by the main buildings of Bogota: the National Capitol, the Primatial Cathedral, the Mayor's Office of Bogota, the Cabildo, the Palace of Justice and the Museum of Independence.