Palacio de Nariño (House of Narino), Bogota

The House of Narino, also known as the Casa de Narino, serves as the official residence and principal workplace of the President of Colombia. Located in Bogota, it houses the executive branch of the government. The building, steeped in history and architectural elegance, was inaugurated in 1908 on the site where Antonio Narino, a national hero of Colombian independence, was born.

The original house, built in 1754 and owned by Vicente Narino, remained with the Narino family until it changed hands multiple times. Recognizing its historical significance, President Rafael Nunez purchased the property in 1885 with the intention of converting it into a presidential palace. Over the years, the structure served various purposes, including hosting the War Ministry, the National Archives, and the National University's mathematics faculty.

Architects Gaston Lelarge and Julian Lombana redesigned the building in 1906, enhancing its façade with carved stone, expanding its dimensions, and introducing wide halls and new levels. The Swiss sculptor Luigi Ramelli contributed to its intricate ornamentation, and subsequent additions included a third level, a terrace roof, and a heliport during the administration of Eduardo Santos.

The House of Narino seamlessly combines neoclassical and French influences, reflecting the expertise of its designers. Inside, it showcases a collection of art and furnishings spanning various historical periods. The Parade Ground (Plaza de Armas), located on its northern side, is a ceremonial space where foreign dignitaries are received. Notable sculptures in the plaza include a replica of the pre-Columbian "El Dios de la muerte" and “Vigilantes”, a striking aluminum piece by Edgar Negret.

On the plaza's west side stands the National Observatory, built between 1802 and 1803 by Domingo de Petres. This historic structure, the oldest observatory in the Americas, played a pivotal role in the independence movement as the meeting place for revolutionary leaders.

A daily highlight is the Changing of the Guard ceremony performed by the 37th Infantry Battalion on the Plaza de Armas. This spectacle attracts visitors, reinforcing the symbolic and cultural importance of the site.