Ciudad Universitaria de Bogota (University City of Bogota), Bogota

The University City of Bogota, often called the White City, is the flagship campus of the National University of Colombia. Located near Teusaquillo, Bogota, it spans an impressive 1,200,000 square meters (300 acres), making it the largest university campus in Colombia. The campus is notable for its abundant green spaces, pedestrian-friendly layout, and historical significance, with 17 of its buildings designated as national monuments, reflecting 60 years of Colombian architectural evolution.

The University City was envisioned during Alfonso Lopez Pumarejo’s presidency to modernize and democratize Colombian education. Established as an independent institution in 1935, its location west of Bogotá successfully spurred urban development, making it central and easily accessible today.

The campus design reflects the influence of German architects Fritz Karsen and Leopold Rother, who introduced a modernist, Bauhaus-inspired aesthetic. Karsen’s academic structure, shaped as an ellipse, defined the organization of five major academic divisions, a layout translated into physical form by Rother. The design embraced "puristic cubism," with prismatic, white, and austere buildings that harmonized with expansive green spaces and interconnecting pathways.

Rother played a key role in designing buildings like the Alfonso Lopez stage and research laboratories, with architects like Lange, Blumenthal, and Violi also contributing. Their work introduced modern techniques blended with tradition. The use of white stucco earned the campus its nickname, White City, and its green zones introduced Colombia's first "campus" concept focused on relaxation and connectivity.

The University City is a landmark of modern Colombian architecture and education, ranked among the country's top 20th-century works. Architects like Leopold Rother left a lasting legacy, shaping both the campus and future generations. Today, it remains a vibrant center of education, culture, and architectural heritage.