Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre), Bogota
The Christopher Columbus Theatre (Teatro de Cristobal Colon) is a landmark of cultural and historical significance located in Bogota. Serving as the nation's National Theatre, it was designed in the Neoclassical style by Italian architect Pietro Cantini and inaugurated on 12 October 1892 to commemorate the fourth centenary of the discovery of America. The grand opening featured a performance of Verdi's Ernani.
The theatre occupies a space of 2,400 square meters and features a horseshoe-shaped auditorium modeled after Paris's Palais Garnier, albeit at half the size. Its Tuscan Doric façade is crafted from carved stone and segmented by decorative cornices, reflecting the meticulous attention to architectural detail characteristic of the era. Renowned Swiss architect Luigi Ramelli contributed the theatre’s ornate interior decorations and embellishments, creating a space of unparalleled elegance.
The Columbus Theatre was built on the site of the former Ramirez Coliseum and Maldonado Theatre, with construction commencing on 5 October 1885. In recognition of its architectural and cultural importance, the theatre was declared a National Monument on 11 August 1975. It underwent major renovations between 2009 and 2010 to preserve its historical integrity and modernize its facilities.
Throughout its history, the Columbus Theatre has hosted performances by world-class artists and numerous prestigious national and international productions. Its foyer, located on the second level, features exquisite frescoes on the ceiling, as well as richly adorned pilasters, doors, and windows. This space is often used for chamber music concerts, recitals, and performances by smaller ensembles.
In addition to its artistic contributions, the Columbus Theatre played a pivotal role in Colombian history. On 24 November 2016, it was the venue for the signing of the modified peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC, marking the end of more than five decades of conflict.
Today, it stands not only as a testament to Colombia's rich cultural heritage but also as a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic spirit.
The theatre occupies a space of 2,400 square meters and features a horseshoe-shaped auditorium modeled after Paris's Palais Garnier, albeit at half the size. Its Tuscan Doric façade is crafted from carved stone and segmented by decorative cornices, reflecting the meticulous attention to architectural detail characteristic of the era. Renowned Swiss architect Luigi Ramelli contributed the theatre’s ornate interior decorations and embellishments, creating a space of unparalleled elegance.
The Columbus Theatre was built on the site of the former Ramirez Coliseum and Maldonado Theatre, with construction commencing on 5 October 1885. In recognition of its architectural and cultural importance, the theatre was declared a National Monument on 11 August 1975. It underwent major renovations between 2009 and 2010 to preserve its historical integrity and modernize its facilities.
Throughout its history, the Columbus Theatre has hosted performances by world-class artists and numerous prestigious national and international productions. Its foyer, located on the second level, features exquisite frescoes on the ceiling, as well as richly adorned pilasters, doors, and windows. This space is often used for chamber music concerts, recitals, and performances by smaller ensembles.
In addition to its artistic contributions, the Columbus Theatre played a pivotal role in Colombian history. On 24 November 2016, it was the venue for the signing of the modified peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC, marking the end of more than five decades of conflict.
Today, it stands not only as a testament to Colombia's rich cultural heritage but also as a symbol of the country’s resilience and artistic spirit.
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Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre) on Map
Sight Name: Teatro Cristóbal Colón (Christopher Columbus Theatre)
Sight Location: Bogota, Colombia (See walking tours in Bogota)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Bogota, Colombia (See walking tours in Bogota)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Bogota, Colombia
Create Your Own Walk in Bogota
Creating your own self-guided walk in Bogota is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Bogota Shopping Tour
Colombia is known for its gold and emeralds, recognizable national clothing, pottery, accessories, and other crafts. The country's capital Bogota is so rich in authentic shopping that it's almost mind-boggling to decide what to buy first and most importantly, where to buy it at the best possible price!
Start your quest at Pasaje Rivas Market, Bogota's oldest marketplace, offering... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Start your quest at Pasaje Rivas Market, Bogota's oldest marketplace, offering... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Architectural Jewels
Bogota, Colombia, is quite a city for an architectural experience. Attentive to the local historical heritage, the city has managed to preserve in full splendor most of its colonial buildings.
One such gem is the Palace (or House) of Nariño, the official residence of the President of Colombia. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a prominent landmark.
Not far away from it... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
One such gem is the Palace (or House) of Nariño, the official residence of the President of Colombia. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a prominent landmark.
Not far away from it... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Bogota Old Town Walking Tour
In 1538, the indigenous Muisca of the Colombian Altiplano had the advantage in numbers over the force of conquistador Gonzalo Jimenez de Quesada. Arriving in the Muisca Federation, the Spanish had only 162 exhausted men. However, the guecha warriors of Chief Tisquesusa were no match. The Federation fell in bloody battle.
In the area now known as Quevedo's Fountain Square, Quesada set up 12... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
In the area now known as Quevedo's Fountain Square, Quesada set up 12... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip
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