Discover the long cultural and historical journey of the country at the National Museum of Colombia. This expansive institution preserves over 20,000 artefacts spanning the ages from pre-Columbian times to colonial settlement. Built in 1823, this site is a historic landmark itself.
The museum building has previously served as a prison. See glimpses into this past in its cell rooms, which house exhibits in the modern day. The museum's 17 permanent displays proceed in chronological order across three floors. They'll take a few hours to explore. English information boards provide helpful guides to displays of pre-Hispanic culture through to the present.
Delight in the diverse culture of pre-Columbian tribes. Discover their rituals for funerals and burials, marvel at a collection of gold ornaments and browse ancient jewellery, pottery and tools. The second floor exhibits display Spanish conquistadors and independence fighters. Pivotal figures from Columbia's early years are memorialised here.
Change your pace on the third floor, where rooms display colonial and modern day artworks. Highlights include Columbian names like Fernando Botero, Alejandro Obregón and Guillermo Wiedemann. Join a tour of the museum's temporary exhibits for a deeper insight into Columbian culture. Occasionally, the museum hosts dance and music shows.
Find the National Museum of Colombia to the north of downtown Bogotá. Get there using the subway or board the hop-on, hop-off tourist bus that stops close to the museum’s entrance. Drivers will find paid parking close by. After exploring the exhibits, explore the stars at the Planetarium of Bogotá.
The nearby Torre Colpatria also offers panoramic views of the city.The museum is open daily except for Mondays. The permanent exhibits are free to enter and complimentary English tours are run on Wednesdays. Tour schedules, temporary exhibition fees and cultural event times are posted on the museum website.
