In the midst of the lush vegetation of the Cundinamarca-Boyacá Andean highlands, at an altitude of over 2,600 meters, lies Colombia’s capital. Bogotá reflects the evolution of Colombia, offering a unique blend of history and modernity, full of riches and countless treasures to discover.
History etched in its streets
At the heart of the city lies its oldest district: La Candelaria. Founded in 1538, its cobbled streets and colorful facades of colonial and republican architecture tell the story of Colombia. This area is a veritable cultural hub, boasting some 500 institutions from art groups, museums and research centers, as well as theaters, libraries and universities.
Highlights include the Plaza de Bolívar, surrounded by emblematic buildings such as the Primada Cathedral, a blend of Baroque and colonial art; the Palace of Justice, the Town Hall and the National Capitol, home to the Congress of the Republic, all designed by French architect Gaston Lelarge. The neoclassical Casa de Nariño, the President’s official residence, is just a few steps away, and has its own astronomical observatory.
This district is also a hotbed of street art. Take a stroll and you’ll discover many high-quality frescoes, often inspired by indigenous culture. To fully grasp the richness and hidden meanings of these works, specialized guides offer tours that unveil their secrets.
Our article: Bogota: A booming destination for U.S. travelers
Of the 60 museums in the city, two of the most important are in the historic center:
● The Gold Museum: Recognized by National Geographic as one of the best museums in history. It houses the world’s largest collection of pre-Hispanic goldwork, with over 34,000 pieces of gold and alloys, as well as 25,000 artifacts in ceramics, precious stones and textiles. Its best-known treasure is the Poporo Quimbaya.
● The Botero Museum: Its collection is one of the most important of modern art in Latin America, featuring 208 works donated by Colombian artist Fernando Botero: 123 of his own and 85 by international artists such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse.
Taste and culture in one place
The Usaquén district, known for its wide range of gastronomic offerings, cobbled streets and bohemian atmosphere, is another place not to be missed. It boasts a wide variety of restaurants offering international haute cuisine as well as traditional dishes such asajiaco, tamales and changua. However, the soul of the city is undoubtedly its ” Mercado de las Pulgas ” (Flea Market), held every weekend and on Mondays. Here you can find antiques, handicrafts and works by local artists and craftsmen working with ceramics, fabrics and recycled materials.
Culinary discoveries don’t stop at Usaquén, for among the guardians of Bogotá’s culinary and cultural traditions are its neighborhood markets. These are places where the ancestral flavours of the region are preserved, offering an impressive selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as the chance to sample chicha, a traditional indigenous drink from the Andes.
To deepen your understanding of indigenous traditions, why not try your hand at Tejo, Colombia’s national sport? Inherited from the pre-Columbian Muisca people (circa 300 BC to 1500 AD), this unique game combines precision and spectacular explosions. The game, played by two teams, takes place on a 17.5-metre-long field bordered on either side by clay-covered targets. The aim is to throw a metal disc from one end of the field to the other, getting as close as possible to the bocín (a metal ring) located in the middle of the targets. If it’s hit, it triggers small paper packets filled with a little gunpowder: guaranteed effect!
A natural and spiritual connection within the city
For fans of breathtaking panoramic views, Monserrate and its Sanctuary of the Fallen Lord – a church over 400 years old – offer an unforgettable experience. Perched at more than 3,150 meters above sea level, this iconic site offers a breathtaking view of the immensity of the city. There are several options for climbing it: walking, which is both a pilgrimage and excellent outdoor exercise, or taking the funicular or cable car. A restaurant at the summit allows you to enjoy a meal while taking in the view. The best part? at dinner, contemplating the sunset with Bogotá lighting up below – a magical moment!
To connect with nature, the Botanical Garden and its Tropicarium, containing a wide variety of flowers including an incredible diversity of orchids, offers the chance to experience Colombia’s biodiversity all in one place.
Festive nights of music and dance
Zona Rosa, with Zone T at its heart, is a lively district by day and night. Lined with shopping malls and fine restaurants, it transforms itself after dark into the epicenter of the party scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, lounges and live music venues.
One of the most popular establishments is Andres D.C., a restaurant that offers live entertainment immersing diners in a unique atmosphere and extravagant decor.
Nearby getaways
An hour from the capital is Zipaquira and its underground cathedral, dug out of a salt mine and considered one of Colombia’s architectural gems. The site includes a series of chapels and Stations of the Cross, as well as a theme park, museum and hiking trail.
Another not-to-be-missed spot near the capital is the Guatavita lagoon, known not only for its spectacular scenery, but above all for being the origin of the El Dorado legend. According to the story, ceremonies were held here during which the cacique would cover himself in gold dust and then be immersed in the lagoon, while throwing offerings of gold and emeralds into the water. This fascinating legend gave its name to the city’s international airport.
Our article: Bogotá’s El Dorado: voted best airport in South America
Bogotá can’t be visited, it has to be experienced. From its streets steeped in history to the summit of the Monserrate, from its colorful gourmet markets to its dynamic art scene, the Colombian capital offers a complete immersion in the soul of the country. Every neighborhood tells a story, every museum reveals a treasure, and every dish reveals a piece of its culture. Bogotá is a city to come back to, so fascinating and renewing is it with each visit.
Photos: Monserrate.com | Alcaldia de Bogota | Ricardo Báez/Visit Bogota | D.R. | Getty
